Inspired by my favourite communications guy.
11. The baby puke-a-rama. You may have a pukey baby. You may not. This does not guarantee they won't turn into the exorcist when you're travelling. Carry multiple extra clothes…and a set for you too. A friend was in the Halifax airport in a tank top and pajama shorts in January with a carry on full of sicky clothing. Nice look.
10. Baby runs. A friend said baby poo smells like buttermilk. When it just won't stop coming and you only have a limited number of nappies, buttermilk sucks. You only carry on a logical number of nappies for a regular poop situation. Solution? ...when you find out let me know.
9. Overtired immobile kids. The ones too young to run around. Instead they just cry and cry. I was on a plane from HK to London beside a mum that had already come from Sydney on her own with her 9 month old baby girl, Neve. Neve turned into a red, howling monster about 10 minutes after takeoff and kept it up pretty much solidly through to London. Nothing to be done. Try really hard not to scream at the on board team when they suggest she may want some milk. LIKE YOU HADN'T THOUGHT OF THAT ALREADY!
8. Overtired mobile kids. These are the ones that run maniacly up and down the airplane. Polite smiles turn into glares in no time when kiddo is yelling and bumping into elbows and knees on the upteenth trip. Let them run a bit, then tempt them into seats with books, videos, toys...pull out the big guns, otherwise they'll never stop. Perhaps a shameless plug for the travel pack here??
7. Baby spikes a fever on a long haul flight. Okay, so you're panicing that it is airborne Ebola, but try to stay calm. Air stewards are great at running around and fetching you things (cloths for the baby...gin for you). If you have brought baby drugs - give them that and cuddle them and try to monitor their temperature. There isn't much you can do.
6. Your kid is bored. I realise, this may not seem like a disaster to many. However, on an airplane filled with people to annoy, this could be going in the direction of disaster. Have an emergency toy to hand. Ideally something new for the trip that should keep their attention for a while.
5. To really scare you - have a read about this nightmare with a travelling toddler. They have improved safety conditions since... http://news.sky.com/skynews/Home/Business/Ryanair-Says-It-Has-Toughened-Up-Safety-Rules-After-A-Child-Fell-From-Steps-While-Boarding-A-Plane/Article/201008215681940?f=rss
4. Delays to return trip takes you past the 2 year old birthday. This is a good logistical nightmare. We were trapped by the ashcloud for 8 days in India past our return date. During those 8 days, Little Jet turned 2! Happy birthday! You now need a real airplane seat! This caused no end of problems with rebooking. If you have unexpected travel changes, consider calling the airline direct to talk it through. There are no systems in place for this sort of thing, so be prepared to be on the phone a long long time.
3. Nightmare when travelling with children nearby. Your kids may be angels, but when someone is feeding THEIR kids chocolate as a bribe to get them to pipe down on a flight to Malta, it is the longest 3 hours in the air ever. Sugar and kids and long journeys just don't mix.
2. Forgetting the key item. Little Jet has a doggie she does not sleep without. What happens when you are all on the airplane and doggie is not? We found that distraction with other cuddly toys specifically for travelling helped. A bit. Best advice? Don't forget doggie.
1. Travelling on your own with a small child on no sleep on a long haul flight that gets redirected to an airport in the middle of nowhere for a 4 hour emergency stop because someone in the cabin has taken ill. And your mobile phone battery died. Tears all around.
Thursday 26 August 2010
Wednesday 25 August 2010
Top 12 Travel Toys for Kids
Without being a HUGE plug for Little Jet Setter products...Check out our stuff here: http://www.autumnfair.com/Autumn10/website/Show_Exhdetails1.aspx?exhid=exhiReg452&id=det
Top 12 Great Travel Toys for Kids
12. Acqua Doodle - awesome reusable travel fun that allows kids to doodle with a refillable water pen. Let it dry and doodle again. Hours of entertainment!
11. Water-appear designs - these fun magic paper products are use-once as opposed to the acquadoodle items, but are everywhere with loads of designs and characters.
10. Small travel games - this is really for the older kids, but they make great, travel-sized tin holders for chequers, chess, hangman etc...
9. Reusable sticker sets keep kids happy and busy. Little Jet Setter has 4 fun travel scenes!
8. Magnet Sets - like sticker sets, but with magnets. Obviously.
7. Bucket and Spade - this is great for the beach, but you'd be surprised how much fun it can be in the bath, the hotel room etc.
6. Stackable Cups - greatest travel invention ever bar none. Easy to pack. Useful everywhere (except the restaurant...stacking means also breaking down...which can cause serious injury to waitstaff with cups underfoot!).
5. Blow up toys - (oi...mind out of the gutter please...). These are super easy to deflate and pack, and are good in the pool, bath, ocean and on dry land!
4. Electronic games - the iPhone, the iPad - these are your friends.
3. Books - there is nothing better than a favourite (or a new book) to use again and again.
2. Toy clip - this should be your travel essential. It allows you to clip toys to baby's clothes, chair, table etc. so they stay off the ground. Cleaner and so much better for parental sanity than picking up the same item a million times!
1. Toddler packs - backpacks, suitcases, handbags - little ones love to put things in and take things out. As they get older they can carry their own toys with them as well! One less thing to jam in the nappy bag...
Top 12 Great Travel Toys for Kids
12. Acqua Doodle - awesome reusable travel fun that allows kids to doodle with a refillable water pen. Let it dry and doodle again. Hours of entertainment!
11. Water-appear designs - these fun magic paper products are use-once as opposed to the acquadoodle items, but are everywhere with loads of designs and characters.
10. Small travel games - this is really for the older kids, but they make great, travel-sized tin holders for chequers, chess, hangman etc...
9. Reusable sticker sets keep kids happy and busy. Little Jet Setter has 4 fun travel scenes!
8. Magnet Sets - like sticker sets, but with magnets. Obviously.
7. Bucket and Spade - this is great for the beach, but you'd be surprised how much fun it can be in the bath, the hotel room etc.
6. Stackable Cups - greatest travel invention ever bar none. Easy to pack. Useful everywhere (except the restaurant...stacking means also breaking down...which can cause serious injury to waitstaff with cups underfoot!).
5. Blow up toys - (oi...mind out of the gutter please...). These are super easy to deflate and pack, and are good in the pool, bath, ocean and on dry land!
4. Electronic games - the iPhone, the iPad - these are your friends.
3. Books - there is nothing better than a favourite (or a new book) to use again and again.
2. Toy clip - this should be your travel essential. It allows you to clip toys to baby's clothes, chair, table etc. so they stay off the ground. Cleaner and so much better for parental sanity than picking up the same item a million times!
1. Toddler packs - backpacks, suitcases, handbags - little ones love to put things in and take things out. As they get older they can carry their own toys with them as well! One less thing to jam in the nappy bag...
Monday 23 August 2010
13 Reasons to Go Glamping
I just got back from glamping in Lancashire. It poured down with rain (not surprisingly) but we had a brilliant time anyways!
13 Reasons to Go Glamping!
13. Most Glamping tents have separate "rooms" for kids - it is like getting a suite in a hotel (albeit with canvas walls!)
12. No TV - kids get to experience the great outdoors!
11. Fresh Air - you get it even when you're inside in these tents, so the kids will sleep like logs!
10. Loads of choices worldwide. Check out this site for inspiration! http://goglamping.net/
9. Sleep in a yurt. I didn't know what a yurt was either, until I saw this: http://www.lake-district-yurts.co.uk/info/our-yurts.html (look like a big marshmallow from the outside...)
8. Campfires. Actually, the campfire is beside the point. You can roast marshmallows on campfires, which is when it gets fun!
7. The glamourous part means that most of these sites have indoor loos which makes all the difference at 2am!
8. Easy cooking options - the featherdown farms sites allow you to book yummy food ahead you just need to heat over your pot bellied stove or a roaring fire. http://www.featherdownfarms.co.uk/
7. Access to the beach - some french glamping is right on the med, and check out this site on the beach in Cornwall - surf's up! http://www.tolcarnebeach.com/shacks.php
6. Farm glamping means all kinds of fun animal interactions even for the youngest kids. Remember to keep washing hands to combat germs, but otherwise have fun.
5. Rain rain go away...it will rain, but with an indoor stove, running water, comfy chairs and a table, kids can have fun indoors too when the inevitable downpour comes.
4. Adorable sleeping nook in the Featherdown farm tents that the kids will fight to sleep in!
3. Should I mention the money? Glamping can be cheaper than the same amount of space in the same location.
2. Eco-friendly alternative for accomodations.
1. Forced chill-out - no power, no tv, no mobile signal (often) - unplug, grab a book, play with the kids. Sounds like a great break to me!
13 Reasons to Go Glamping!
13. Most Glamping tents have separate "rooms" for kids - it is like getting a suite in a hotel (albeit with canvas walls!)
12. No TV - kids get to experience the great outdoors!
11. Fresh Air - you get it even when you're inside in these tents, so the kids will sleep like logs!
10. Loads of choices worldwide. Check out this site for inspiration! http://goglamping.net/
9. Sleep in a yurt. I didn't know what a yurt was either, until I saw this: http://www.lake-district-yurts.co.uk/info/our-yurts.html (look like a big marshmallow from the outside...)
8. Campfires. Actually, the campfire is beside the point. You can roast marshmallows on campfires, which is when it gets fun!
7. The glamourous part means that most of these sites have indoor loos which makes all the difference at 2am!
8. Easy cooking options - the featherdown farms sites allow you to book yummy food ahead you just need to heat over your pot bellied stove or a roaring fire. http://www.featherdownfarms.co.uk/
7. Access to the beach - some french glamping is right on the med, and check out this site on the beach in Cornwall - surf's up! http://www.tolcarnebeach.com/shacks.php
6. Farm glamping means all kinds of fun animal interactions even for the youngest kids. Remember to keep washing hands to combat germs, but otherwise have fun.
5. Rain rain go away...it will rain, but with an indoor stove, running water, comfy chairs and a table, kids can have fun indoors too when the inevitable downpour comes.
4. Adorable sleeping nook in the Featherdown farm tents that the kids will fight to sleep in!
3. Should I mention the money? Glamping can be cheaper than the same amount of space in the same location.
2. Eco-friendly alternative for accomodations.
1. Forced chill-out - no power, no tv, no mobile signal (often) - unplug, grab a book, play with the kids. Sounds like a great break to me!
Sunday 22 August 2010
14 Things Not To Miss When Travelling to France with Baby
This list is really what not to miss in France with OR WITHOUT baby!
14. Watching the people watching the yachts in St. Tropez harbour.
13. Pedalboating in Lac St Croix at the entrance to the majestic Gorges de Verdon.
12. Top of the Eiffel Tower in Paris looking down at all that Meccano.
11. Eurostar itself getting to Paris is a ball.
10. Walking around the quaint Harbourfront in Honfleur with the baby carriage.
9. Provencal Villa near Lorgues - 45 minutes from Nice, 30 minutes from St Tropez in the countryside.
8. Cheese, Bread, ham - Baby heaven.
7. Cruising down the boulevard in Nice.
6. Watching the surfers while playing on the sand in Biarritz.
5. Ice Cream from Amorino on the Left Bank - totally mmmmm...
4. Ski school in Courchevel, Meribel or Val Thorens (while mummy and daddy drink vin chaud on the slopes!).
3. Gardens of Versailles are gorgeous and a great place to let the kids run themselves out.
2. The lively markets in small towns all around France - here is a good place to find them http://www.francetravelguide.com/france-markets.html
1. The relaxed pace of life - stop in a cafe, walk the boulevards or tiny medieval squares and soak up the essence of holiday!
14. Watching the people watching the yachts in St. Tropez harbour.
13. Pedalboating in Lac St Croix at the entrance to the majestic Gorges de Verdon.
12. Top of the Eiffel Tower in Paris looking down at all that Meccano.
11. Eurostar itself getting to Paris is a ball.
10. Walking around the quaint Harbourfront in Honfleur with the baby carriage.
9. Provencal Villa near Lorgues - 45 minutes from Nice, 30 minutes from St Tropez in the countryside.
8. Cheese, Bread, ham - Baby heaven.
7. Cruising down the boulevard in Nice.
6. Watching the surfers while playing on the sand in Biarritz.
5. Ice Cream from Amorino on the Left Bank - totally mmmmm...
4. Ski school in Courchevel, Meribel or Val Thorens (while mummy and daddy drink vin chaud on the slopes!).
3. Gardens of Versailles are gorgeous and a great place to let the kids run themselves out.
2. The lively markets in small towns all around France - here is a good place to find them http://www.francetravelguide.com/france-markets.html
1. The relaxed pace of life - stop in a cafe, walk the boulevards or tiny medieval squares and soak up the essence of holiday!
Saturday 21 August 2010
15 Baby Foods that Travel Well
15. Raisins - personally I hate them, but little people love them.
14. Rice Cakes - the organic flavoured ones taste less like cardboard.
13. Formula - SMA do a great boxed package of premade formula for planes trains and automobiles.
12. Sippy cups with juice. You would think the small boxed juices are good, but hand it to them and I guarantee they squeeze it before it gets to their lips. It will happen just when you don't have time to change their shirts.
11. Peter Rabbit Squishy fruits - these have pure apple fruit packs for early weaners (not to be confused with wieners).
10. Clementines - nature's packaging is perfect.
9. Yogurts/petit filous in a chiller pocket of the nappy bag for the first leg of a journey only!
8. Put some crackers in a small tupperware - keeping them in the bag will result in crumbs!
7. Speaking of crackers, North America has the ultimate toddler cracker: Pepperidge Farm's Goldfish. If you're there or travelling there pick up a crateful.
6. Cheesestrings - they say they are 100% cheese. I choose to believe them. Again, easy travel packaging, but really for the first leg of the journey before they get sweaty and horrible.
5. Grapes - unlike the souless variety (raisins), these are higher maintenance, but fresher - cut in half to avoid a choking hazard and put in tupperware. Yummy.
4. Granola bars - they come in a wide variety that suits all ages.
3. Cheerios - dry, plain, in some sort of sealable cup. The European version is more sugary, so if you want sugar-free little O's bring your own if travelling from the US/Canada.
2. Bananas - again, in nature's packaging...but be careful with these - much more apt to squish into a packed bag. Carry them somewhere you won't jam some toys on top in a rush to deplane/detrain.
1. What NOT to pack - chocolate of any kind. There is nothing worse than travelling kids who are high on sugar. If you want some upon arrival, they sell chocolate the world over!
14. Rice Cakes - the organic flavoured ones taste less like cardboard.
13. Formula - SMA do a great boxed package of premade formula for planes trains and automobiles.
12. Sippy cups with juice. You would think the small boxed juices are good, but hand it to them and I guarantee they squeeze it before it gets to their lips. It will happen just when you don't have time to change their shirts.
11. Peter Rabbit Squishy fruits - these have pure apple fruit packs for early weaners (not to be confused with wieners).
10. Clementines - nature's packaging is perfect.
9. Yogurts/petit filous in a chiller pocket of the nappy bag for the first leg of a journey only!
8. Put some crackers in a small tupperware - keeping them in the bag will result in crumbs!
7. Speaking of crackers, North America has the ultimate toddler cracker: Pepperidge Farm's Goldfish. If you're there or travelling there pick up a crateful.
6. Cheesestrings - they say they are 100% cheese. I choose to believe them. Again, easy travel packaging, but really for the first leg of the journey before they get sweaty and horrible.
5. Grapes - unlike the souless variety (raisins), these are higher maintenance, but fresher - cut in half to avoid a choking hazard and put in tupperware. Yummy.
4. Granola bars - they come in a wide variety that suits all ages.
3. Cheerios - dry, plain, in some sort of sealable cup. The European version is more sugary, so if you want sugar-free little O's bring your own if travelling from the US/Canada.
2. Bananas - again, in nature's packaging...but be careful with these - much more apt to squish into a packed bag. Carry them somewhere you won't jam some toys on top in a rush to deplane/detrain.
1. What NOT to pack - chocolate of any kind. There is nothing worse than travelling kids who are high on sugar. If you want some upon arrival, they sell chocolate the world over!
Friday 20 August 2010
Top 16 Packing Tips for Travelling with Young Children
16. The Carry-On is your key travel item - take the time to think through what you'll need and ensure you have enough space in the bag you choose.
15. If your toddler can walk, give them a small backpack with a few of their things to carry themselves. They love it. Do not choose a wheely suitcase unless they are bigger - you will end up carrying them and it at some point.
14. Bring a few sterilised baby bottles in your carry on bag - at least 1 more than you think you'll need. They may want the comfort of another feed in a strange place.
13. Favourite books are a must to pack for pre-bedtime rituals. Don't skimp on this - they take up space but are worth their weight in gold that first night away.
12. Bring an extra single sheet - some hotels annoyingly give you a travel cot with no linens. At least you can make due until they can change it for you if you have something with you. Also useful for midnight cot changes when necessary.
11. Baby Monitor - don't forget to pack it. It is useful if your room has a balcony or if you're in a villa or larger space.
10. Cuddly toy for bed - if your little one usually sleeps with it - pack it.
9. Snacks - a hungry travelling child is a disaster. Pack lots of easily accessible snacks for travel or even for being touristy during the day.
8. Baby toiletries - it is EXTREMELY rare to get given any baby toiletries when you travel as you would expect waiting for you in the room as an adult. Baby sensitive skin may suffer if you don't plan ahead.
7. Small bottle of sensitive detergent for washing baby's clothes. Hopefully you won't have to use it, but that all depends on the poop, sick, food mess lottery. Best to pack some insurance and hope for the best.
6. Toddler spoon/fork - you can go the whole hog and pack plates and bowls, but I find that toddlers are okay with most restaurant stuff other than the forks and spoons which are just too big.
5. Kids medicine and thermometer. You know how they can go from fine to feverish in the blink of an eye - it is better to come prepared.
4. Portable potty for the car - if it is going to be a long trip, and you have a bit of extra space, packing one of these may be your lifesaver when the desperate call comes from the backseat.
3. Nappy disposal bags - usually, I would not use these as I think there is so much plastic wasted anyways. However, when travelling, you may be stuck carrying around a soiled nappy for quite a while. I'd prefer if it was bagged, wouldn't you?
2. Full sized kids sunscreen - you will get through LOADS of it, so don't bother with the dinky travel size for this - it is going in your main luggage anyways.
1. You will have a lot of stuff. In comparison to your pre-baby days and a small weekend holdall...this will seems like an obscene amount of stuff. Check you're still under the airline weight limits if you're flying...otherwise, just deal with it. Your life has changed!
15. If your toddler can walk, give them a small backpack with a few of their things to carry themselves. They love it. Do not choose a wheely suitcase unless they are bigger - you will end up carrying them and it at some point.
14. Bring a few sterilised baby bottles in your carry on bag - at least 1 more than you think you'll need. They may want the comfort of another feed in a strange place.
13. Favourite books are a must to pack for pre-bedtime rituals. Don't skimp on this - they take up space but are worth their weight in gold that first night away.
12. Bring an extra single sheet - some hotels annoyingly give you a travel cot with no linens. At least you can make due until they can change it for you if you have something with you. Also useful for midnight cot changes when necessary.
11. Baby Monitor - don't forget to pack it. It is useful if your room has a balcony or if you're in a villa or larger space.
10. Cuddly toy for bed - if your little one usually sleeps with it - pack it.
9. Snacks - a hungry travelling child is a disaster. Pack lots of easily accessible snacks for travel or even for being touristy during the day.
8. Baby toiletries - it is EXTREMELY rare to get given any baby toiletries when you travel as you would expect waiting for you in the room as an adult. Baby sensitive skin may suffer if you don't plan ahead.
7. Small bottle of sensitive detergent for washing baby's clothes. Hopefully you won't have to use it, but that all depends on the poop, sick, food mess lottery. Best to pack some insurance and hope for the best.
6. Toddler spoon/fork - you can go the whole hog and pack plates and bowls, but I find that toddlers are okay with most restaurant stuff other than the forks and spoons which are just too big.
5. Kids medicine and thermometer. You know how they can go from fine to feverish in the blink of an eye - it is better to come prepared.
4. Portable potty for the car - if it is going to be a long trip, and you have a bit of extra space, packing one of these may be your lifesaver when the desperate call comes from the backseat.
3. Nappy disposal bags - usually, I would not use these as I think there is so much plastic wasted anyways. However, when travelling, you may be stuck carrying around a soiled nappy for quite a while. I'd prefer if it was bagged, wouldn't you?
2. Full sized kids sunscreen - you will get through LOADS of it, so don't bother with the dinky travel size for this - it is going in your main luggage anyways.
1. You will have a lot of stuff. In comparison to your pre-baby days and a small weekend holdall...this will seems like an obscene amount of stuff. Check you're still under the airline weight limits if you're flying...otherwise, just deal with it. Your life has changed!
Thursday 19 August 2010
Top 17 Tips for Taking Baby to the Beach
Beaches...ahh...wish I was off there today...but alas, we are far too busy working on the Little Jet Setter launch. Hopefully these will be useful for those of you with holidays still to come. Perhaps over the UK bank holiday weekend?
TOP 17 TIPS FOR TAKING BABY TO THE BEACH
17. Everyone knows to use a high factor sun screen - but how do you get it on a wiggy kid? Try sunscreen sticks for faces, ears and bits that are hard to reach.
16. Sun hats need to have chin straps for the very young, otherwise they'll get pulled off in 2 seconds.
15. Sunglasses are cute, but hard to keep on. Babybanz make a good set that stay put.
14. So long as it is in the shade, napping on the beach IS doable even with a 2 year old. The surf helps lull them to sleep...
15. Many young kids don't like the feel of the sand on their feet. Bring sandals that you can get wet and dirty to keep everyone happy.
14. Speaking of sandals, buy them Crocs. Crocs Rock at the beach.
13. Swim nappies are great and can be reused so long as there hasn't been an accident.
12. Why not let them go au naturale at the beach? There are few times that babies and kids are cuter naked than playing in the sand.
11. Don't forget lots of water - push them to drink loads.
10. Water wings and floation aides are great for the pool but pretty rubbish if there are any real waves. Be extra vigilent in the sea even if your kids can swim.
9. There are some great pop-up shade tents that will do well for playing on the beach. Samsonite do a good one.
8. Pack lots of snacks - raisins, squishy fruit purees, biscuits, fruit - they will get devoured with all that exercise.
7. Don't be afraid to dunk them in the water. Sometimes it is the only way to really rinse the sand off!
6. Long sleeved rash suits are totally in for babies and toddlers - especially the ones with SPF 50 materials!
5. Spread out a towel on the sand with some toys. They can venture off or stay on depending on how messy they like it!
4. Wet sand is the only way to go for sandcastle making. It is easy to forget from your own babyhood...so just a reminder.
3. Collecting seashells is a great way to get them enjoying the sand. Save them to make crafts later or back at home.
2. For the smallest babies, clip toys, books and soothers to baby with a Travel Toy Clip. Sandy soothers...yuck.
1. Play with them - on the beach, in the surf, under the umbrellas - this is the stuff memories are made of.
ENJOY
TOP 17 TIPS FOR TAKING BABY TO THE BEACH
17. Everyone knows to use a high factor sun screen - but how do you get it on a wiggy kid? Try sunscreen sticks for faces, ears and bits that are hard to reach.
16. Sun hats need to have chin straps for the very young, otherwise they'll get pulled off in 2 seconds.
15. Sunglasses are cute, but hard to keep on. Babybanz make a good set that stay put.
14. So long as it is in the shade, napping on the beach IS doable even with a 2 year old. The surf helps lull them to sleep...
15. Many young kids don't like the feel of the sand on their feet. Bring sandals that you can get wet and dirty to keep everyone happy.
14. Speaking of sandals, buy them Crocs. Crocs Rock at the beach.
13. Swim nappies are great and can be reused so long as there hasn't been an accident.
12. Why not let them go au naturale at the beach? There are few times that babies and kids are cuter naked than playing in the sand.
11. Don't forget lots of water - push them to drink loads.
10. Water wings and floation aides are great for the pool but pretty rubbish if there are any real waves. Be extra vigilent in the sea even if your kids can swim.
9. There are some great pop-up shade tents that will do well for playing on the beach. Samsonite do a good one.
8. Pack lots of snacks - raisins, squishy fruit purees, biscuits, fruit - they will get devoured with all that exercise.
7. Don't be afraid to dunk them in the water. Sometimes it is the only way to really rinse the sand off!
6. Long sleeved rash suits are totally in for babies and toddlers - especially the ones with SPF 50 materials!
5. Spread out a towel on the sand with some toys. They can venture off or stay on depending on how messy they like it!
4. Wet sand is the only way to go for sandcastle making. It is easy to forget from your own babyhood...so just a reminder.
3. Collecting seashells is a great way to get them enjoying the sand. Save them to make crafts later or back at home.
2. For the smallest babies, clip toys, books and soothers to baby with a Travel Toy Clip. Sandy soothers...yuck.
1. Play with them - on the beach, in the surf, under the umbrellas - this is the stuff memories are made of.
ENJOY
Wednesday 18 August 2010
Top 18 Tips for Happy Hotel Stays with Under-3's
In addition to checking out our Little Jet Setter-rated hotels earlier in this blog, here are a few top tips for hotel stays with babies and toddlers...
TOP 18 TIPS FOR HAPPY HOTEL STAYS WITH UNDER-3's
18. It isn't enough that there is a pool - check that it is a kid-friendly pool with shallow steps they can play on, a kiddie pool area, and shade around the pool.
17. Find out if the hotel grounds make it easy to use your buggy. You do NOT want to carry a buggy complete with sleeping baby up the steps or over a bumpy road after dinner and drinks.
16. Babysitting services - what is on offer?
15. Baby Monitor distances - if you are comfortable using your baby monitor in the hotel, how far does it reach?
14. Restaurants and food - can they make something for hungry toddlers at 5.30pm? If not, you just need to plan for picnics in the room or on the grounds.
13. Adult escape zones (AKA: balconies, suites, dividing walls etc.) - does your room have them for a bit of adult time after baby is asleep?
12. Check that the hotel offers baby cots - some still don't and you do not want to find that out at check-in.
11. Air Conditioning - if you are going somewhere hot hot hot, try to ensure your room is not, not, not when it comes time to sleep.
10. Mosquitos - if they are prevelant in the area, find out if mummy and daddy's bed has mossi nets and if they do, bring a portable one for baby's cot.
9. Especially if there is a time zone difference, sometimes it is tough to get to sleep or stay asleep. Make it easier by packing blackout blinds (ie: babablinds).
8. Pack some emergency milk/formula or buy some upon arrival. Use the stuff that doesn't need refridgeration (UHT milk or premixed formula is great). This takes the stress out of the morning milk bottle.
7. Use the refridgerator in your room for baby's essentials like milk. You can take a prepared bottle to the restaurant to heat up for you and keep the rest chilling til the next feed.
6. Pack some dish soap. You will be washing baby bottles - fact. You may as well be prepared to do that in the bathroom sink.
5. If you are in a country that does not have drinkable tap water (I err on the side of more countries than less...), be sure to have bottled water on hand for brushing teeth, bedtime drinks, and rinsing all bottles after washing.
4. Check that kids are allowed in the restaurant after a certain hour. Some hotels discourage children at a certain time. (Same goes for bar areas!).
3. Pool toys - some hotels don't allow them. Check before you bring the life-size inflatable crocodile with you.
2. Bath or shower? It may be easier to have a bath in the room to keep the little one in a bedtime routine.
1. Be prepared to do things differently with baby. That nightcap cocktail may need to be sipped quietly on your balcony, rather than at the rocking beach bar, but you'll still have a wonderful time!
TOP 18 TIPS FOR HAPPY HOTEL STAYS WITH UNDER-3's
18. It isn't enough that there is a pool - check that it is a kid-friendly pool with shallow steps they can play on, a kiddie pool area, and shade around the pool.
17. Find out if the hotel grounds make it easy to use your buggy. You do NOT want to carry a buggy complete with sleeping baby up the steps or over a bumpy road after dinner and drinks.
16. Babysitting services - what is on offer?
15. Baby Monitor distances - if you are comfortable using your baby monitor in the hotel, how far does it reach?
14. Restaurants and food - can they make something for hungry toddlers at 5.30pm? If not, you just need to plan for picnics in the room or on the grounds.
13. Adult escape zones (AKA: balconies, suites, dividing walls etc.) - does your room have them for a bit of adult time after baby is asleep?
12. Check that the hotel offers baby cots - some still don't and you do not want to find that out at check-in.
11. Air Conditioning - if you are going somewhere hot hot hot, try to ensure your room is not, not, not when it comes time to sleep.
10. Mosquitos - if they are prevelant in the area, find out if mummy and daddy's bed has mossi nets and if they do, bring a portable one for baby's cot.
9. Especially if there is a time zone difference, sometimes it is tough to get to sleep or stay asleep. Make it easier by packing blackout blinds (ie: babablinds).
8. Pack some emergency milk/formula or buy some upon arrival. Use the stuff that doesn't need refridgeration (UHT milk or premixed formula is great). This takes the stress out of the morning milk bottle.
7. Use the refridgerator in your room for baby's essentials like milk. You can take a prepared bottle to the restaurant to heat up for you and keep the rest chilling til the next feed.
6. Pack some dish soap. You will be washing baby bottles - fact. You may as well be prepared to do that in the bathroom sink.
5. If you are in a country that does not have drinkable tap water (I err on the side of more countries than less...), be sure to have bottled water on hand for brushing teeth, bedtime drinks, and rinsing all bottles after washing.
4. Check that kids are allowed in the restaurant after a certain hour. Some hotels discourage children at a certain time. (Same goes for bar areas!).
3. Pool toys - some hotels don't allow them. Check before you bring the life-size inflatable crocodile with you.
2. Bath or shower? It may be easier to have a bath in the room to keep the little one in a bedtime routine.
1. Be prepared to do things differently with baby. That nightcap cocktail may need to be sipped quietly on your balcony, rather than at the rocking beach bar, but you'll still have a wonderful time!
Tuesday 17 August 2010
Top 19 Fun Things to Do In London With a Toddler
Whew - 19 days to Little Jet Setter Launch...
TOP 19 FUN THINGS TO DO IN LONDON WITH A TODDLER
19. Diana memorial playground - it has a pirate ship, sand, water, outdoor music trail, lots of grass and seating and swings galore. For adult amusement look out for the bodyguards hovering around the embassy kids. www.royalparks.org.uk/parks/kensington_gardens/diana_playground.cfm
18. Science Museum has a great area for toddlers to run and press buttons. Toddler nirvana. http://www.sciencemuseum.org.uk/
17. V&A Museum splash pool in the courtyard beside a nice cafe keeps kids cool and mums caffienated. http://www.vam.ac.uk/
16. Rainforest Café - beware of the scary rain storms and elephants and gorrillas that come alive. As to be seated by the waterfall to see the more sedate fish tank for small kids. http://www.therainforestcafe.co.uk/
15. Children's Theatre - they are currently playing Room on the Broom at the Garrick Theatre. From the same author as the Gruffalo! http://www.garrick-theatre.co.uk/
14. Wandsworth Common Park and Common Ground Café is a great example of cafes in the middle of lovely green areas of London - there are many more! http://www.commongrounds.co.uk/
13. Hamleys, London's oldest toy store, is lots of fun if you are very very brave. http://www.hamleys.com/
12. Corum Fields is near the museum, and allows the kids to cut loose on some great climbing frames - pack a picnic lunch on a nice day. http://www.corumfields.org/
11. Maggie and Rose for all kinds of fun in Chelsea. http://www.maggieandrose.com/
10. Fun in the Kitchen - The Kids Cookery School in West London starts with 1 hour 15 minute classes for 3 year olds! http://www.thekidscookeryschool.co.uk/
9. The London Duck tours - around London and IN THE THAMES. Splashy fun for all ages. http://www.londonducktours.co.uk/
8. Legoland is a trip outside London, but it is appealing even for the smallest kids. http://www.legoland.co.uk/
7. Godstone Farm - animals and a play barn. Yes, they've had an E.coli scare, but it IS a farm, and if you touch the animals who have done messy things and then put your hands in your mouth...well...it isn't the animal's fault if you get my drift. http://www.godstonefarm.co.uk/
6. Kid Friendly Cafes: Crumpet on Northcote Road, Starbucks Chiswick location and Giraffe.
5. Butterfly Explorers at the Natural History Museum. www.nhm.ac.uk/visit-us/whats-on/butterfly-explorers/index.html
4. Fancy a trip further outside London? Milletts Farm in Oxfordshire is amazing. http://www.milletsfarmcentre.com/
3. Find Nemo at the Sea Life London Aquarium. www.sealife.co.uk/london
2. Cupcake - the kids have a wonderful creche and they have an on-site spa to pamper mummies! http://www.cupcakemum.com/
1. Battersea Park Children's Zoo has recently added more climbing frames, sand play area and a super-cool real fire engine to explore. Oh, and there are animals there too. http://www.batterseaparkzoo.co.uk/
TOP 19 FUN THINGS TO DO IN LONDON WITH A TODDLER
19. Diana memorial playground - it has a pirate ship, sand, water, outdoor music trail, lots of grass and seating and swings galore. For adult amusement look out for the bodyguards hovering around the embassy kids. www.royalparks.org.uk/parks/kensington_gardens/diana_playground.cfm
18. Science Museum has a great area for toddlers to run and press buttons. Toddler nirvana. http://www.sciencemuseum.org.uk/
17. V&A Museum splash pool in the courtyard beside a nice cafe keeps kids cool and mums caffienated. http://www.vam.ac.uk/
16. Rainforest Café - beware of the scary rain storms and elephants and gorrillas that come alive. As to be seated by the waterfall to see the more sedate fish tank for small kids. http://www.therainforestcafe.co.uk/
15. Children's Theatre - they are currently playing Room on the Broom at the Garrick Theatre. From the same author as the Gruffalo! http://www.garrick-theatre.co.uk/
14. Wandsworth Common Park and Common Ground Café is a great example of cafes in the middle of lovely green areas of London - there are many more! http://www.commongrounds.co.uk/
13. Hamleys, London's oldest toy store, is lots of fun if you are very very brave. http://www.hamleys.com/
12. Corum Fields is near the museum, and allows the kids to cut loose on some great climbing frames - pack a picnic lunch on a nice day. http://www.corumfields.org/
11. Maggie and Rose for all kinds of fun in Chelsea. http://www.maggieandrose.com/
10. Fun in the Kitchen - The Kids Cookery School in West London starts with 1 hour 15 minute classes for 3 year olds! http://www.thekidscookeryschool.co.uk/
9. The London Duck tours - around London and IN THE THAMES. Splashy fun for all ages. http://www.londonducktours.co.uk/
8. Legoland is a trip outside London, but it is appealing even for the smallest kids. http://www.legoland.co.uk/
7. Godstone Farm - animals and a play barn. Yes, they've had an E.coli scare, but it IS a farm, and if you touch the animals who have done messy things and then put your hands in your mouth...well...it isn't the animal's fault if you get my drift. http://www.godstonefarm.co.uk/
6. Kid Friendly Cafes: Crumpet on Northcote Road, Starbucks Chiswick location and Giraffe.
5. Butterfly Explorers at the Natural History Museum. www.nhm.ac.uk/visit-us/whats-on/butterfly-explorers/index.html
4. Fancy a trip further outside London? Milletts Farm in Oxfordshire is amazing. http://www.milletsfarmcentre.com/
3. Find Nemo at the Sea Life London Aquarium. www.sealife.co.uk/london
2. Cupcake - the kids have a wonderful creche and they have an on-site spa to pamper mummies! http://www.cupcakemum.com/
1. Battersea Park Children's Zoo has recently added more climbing frames, sand play area and a super-cool real fire engine to explore. Oh, and there are animals there too. http://www.batterseaparkzoo.co.uk/
Monday 16 August 2010
20 Top Tips for Travelling with Babies on Airplanes
Unbelievably, we are 20 days to launching our new products at Little Jet Setter. We'll be at the Autumn Fair in Birmingham from September 5-8th, so please come visit! To honour the momentus occasion, we are going to post some special countdown lists in the lead up to our launch date. Here's the first one:
20 TOP TIPS FOR TRAVELLING WITH BABIES ON AIRPLANES!
20. Have lots of food on hand - milk for baby, extra raisins and rice cakes for toddlers.
19. Pack a sippy cup even if they usually use a regular cup. Nothing worse than spilled juice before takeoff.
18. Book a bassinette at the bulkhead if your airline offers it.
17. Bring an extra blanket - you won't want that flammable, thin, chemically cleaned airline blanket anywhere near baby's face...
16. Try out our Travel Friends as new toys to take on your travels - safe from birth, they are washable and super cute!
15. Bring a change of clothes for them...AND FOR YOU.
14. Make sure your carry-on bag is big enough to jam everything into and then have a bit of space. Like a map, it is impossible to repack it in an orderly way!
13. Bring some Calpol and a thermometer- they make them in tiny travel sleeves and you will very rarely need it, but it puts your mind at rest that it is there if baby spikes a fever.
12. WIPES - bring more than you think you'll need. Then throw in a few more.
11. Travel Toy Clip - unless you are overjoyed with picking up the same item off the floor for the millionth time, attach toys to baby's clothes, seat or tray table using a travel toy clip. Parental sanity saver.
10. Triangular crayons. Think about it.
9. Steal the food they don't eat. Put it in your bag - I guarantee they will ask for it during the customs lineup. Prime examples are yogurts, cookies, fruit, crackers, buns/bread.
8. Some airlines will see if they can get your buggy into the cabin area. If this is a no-go, check if the buggy can meet you at the aircraft on arrival. Otherwise, you're off to the dreaded oversized baggage reclaim...
7. Mess-Free toys - you don't want to worry about markers on the seat back, permanent stickers on the tray table, favourite book pages getting glued together with spilled juice.
6. Crew will warm up your milk bottle for you if you ask - but be specific regarding temperature! You don't have time for an overheated bottle to cool down while your baby is screaming.
5. Make sure you put something down on the change table in the bathroom that won't slip - the baby change area is flat plastic that most change pads slip off.
4. Be aware - some airlines do not offer extension seatbelts for infants - check before you go if this is important to you.
3. Ask for help if you need it - the crew has flown with babies more times than you have!
2. Travelling alone? A sling or baby carrier like a Baby Bjorn can be your saviour!
1.. Have fun and relax - they know when you're stressed!
...come back tomorrow for number 19!
Jet Set Mum
20 TOP TIPS FOR TRAVELLING WITH BABIES ON AIRPLANES!
20. Have lots of food on hand - milk for baby, extra raisins and rice cakes for toddlers.
19. Pack a sippy cup even if they usually use a regular cup. Nothing worse than spilled juice before takeoff.
18. Book a bassinette at the bulkhead if your airline offers it.
17. Bring an extra blanket - you won't want that flammable, thin, chemically cleaned airline blanket anywhere near baby's face...
16. Try out our Travel Friends as new toys to take on your travels - safe from birth, they are washable and super cute!
15. Bring a change of clothes for them...AND FOR YOU.
14. Make sure your carry-on bag is big enough to jam everything into and then have a bit of space. Like a map, it is impossible to repack it in an orderly way!
13. Bring some Calpol and a thermometer- they make them in tiny travel sleeves and you will very rarely need it, but it puts your mind at rest that it is there if baby spikes a fever.
12. WIPES - bring more than you think you'll need. Then throw in a few more.
11. Travel Toy Clip - unless you are overjoyed with picking up the same item off the floor for the millionth time, attach toys to baby's clothes, seat or tray table using a travel toy clip. Parental sanity saver.
10. Triangular crayons. Think about it.
9. Steal the food they don't eat. Put it in your bag - I guarantee they will ask for it during the customs lineup. Prime examples are yogurts, cookies, fruit, crackers, buns/bread.
8. Some airlines will see if they can get your buggy into the cabin area. If this is a no-go, check if the buggy can meet you at the aircraft on arrival. Otherwise, you're off to the dreaded oversized baggage reclaim...
7. Mess-Free toys - you don't want to worry about markers on the seat back, permanent stickers on the tray table, favourite book pages getting glued together with spilled juice.
6. Crew will warm up your milk bottle for you if you ask - but be specific regarding temperature! You don't have time for an overheated bottle to cool down while your baby is screaming.
5. Make sure you put something down on the change table in the bathroom that won't slip - the baby change area is flat plastic that most change pads slip off.
4. Be aware - some airlines do not offer extension seatbelts for infants - check before you go if this is important to you.
3. Ask for help if you need it - the crew has flown with babies more times than you have!
2. Travelling alone? A sling or baby carrier like a Baby Bjorn can be your saviour!
1.. Have fun and relax - they know when you're stressed!
...come back tomorrow for number 19!
Jet Set Mum
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