Hopster - The App That Makes Learning Fun* | Just Add Ginger

Eric is a really independent baby. He knows exactly what he wants and isn't afraid to let you know about it. He doesn't really like to do what you want him to and would rather attempt to do it himself. Which is great - just a tad frustrating when he doesn't understand that there are some things you do still need to help him with.

One thing that he has started to take complete ownership over however is his learning. He catches on to things really quickly and will spend ages figuring out how things work just so that he knows how to use them himself. And one tool that he loves to use and will gravitate to again and again is the Hopster app. 

As a mum I am always a bit careful with how much technology Eric is exposed to. If he watches things on television or YouTube I try my best to opt for educational shows or songs (with the exception of any Disney princess film, which he just loves). So when the chance to try Hopster out came up, I didn't hesitate in expressing my interest. He was already curious about my phone and this way, it would get him away from trying to call random people from my contacts list and give him something to focus on.

I waited a little while before I installed Hopster on our iPad. Eric only turned one in April and I wanted to make sure he was would really be getting something out of it. Initially a lot of it was me directing his play, showing him what everything did and pressing the screen so he could watch the shows I thought he might like. The games were an instant hit and in particular 'Monster Match' (a shape recognition and matching game). I would talk about all the different shapes and he thought the monsters were absolutely hilarious. 

Gradually, over the course of a few weeks the concept of a touch screen caught on and Eric was starting to learn how to navigate things himself. And if there were things he could not do he would guide my hand to show me what he wanted to happen on screen. Pretty soon he was doing everything himself and it was incredible to see him match shapes correctly in 'Monster Match' and remember where pairs were in 'Rock Flip' (another favourite game of his). He had no trouble choosing songs he wanted to hear or shows he felt like watching and he started to ask to have Hopster on on a regular basis.

Of course there are aspects of the app that he is just too young for. His knowledge and understanding is growing at a rapid rate and although the app caters for quite a varied age range you can tell which games he will struggle with or get frustrated trying to use. So although he is pretty much in control of using the app, I do need to 'encourage' him to click on things I know he won't have a meltdown about if he can't figure things out.

From a parenting point of view I am also really enjoying reaping the benefits that Hopster brings. One of the main ones being that there is downloadable content. This has been a godsend to Ryan and me on several occasions. The first was when we had to take Eric to A&E (how we would have kept him entertained for hours without Hopster I have no idea) and the other was on a weekend away in a B&B. Eric woke up in the middle of the night inconsolably screaming and it really helped calm him down (and us keep our sanity). 

Before I was a parent I always thought I wouldn't have any faith in technology as a learning aide but now that we've been using Hopster I've totally changed my mind. I genuinely think it has brought him along. And I never thought I'd say that about an app. He is excellent at matching shapes now, whether on the app, or doing a puzzle and his confidence has spilled over into other areas of his development. Give it a few more months and I really think he'll be telling us about the shapes he sees and what he wants to watch rather than telling us!

Hopster is a completely child safe space with no annoying ads and a carefully curated selection of videos, songs and games that are 100%  appropriate for your child. It is great fun for Eric to use as a 19 month old but I think older children would really enjoy using it too. 

Want to know more? Head over to the Hospter website to have an explore and start your free trial.

*I was very kindly gifted a 12 month subscription to Hopster in exchange for this post. This does not affect my opinions. For more information, please see my disclaimer . 

Lifestyle Imagery: Rachel Clarke Photography

Little Tikes Light 'n' Go 3-in-1 Activity Walker* | Just Add Ginger

Eric has always been a fickle little thing when it comes to toys he likes to play with. One minute he'll be tearing around the living room clutching a plastic car and the next he's happy sitting and turning the pages of a book. 

However cause and effect toys are still a big hit with Eric - especially ones that play sounds, move, sing or dance along to music. He finds them fascinating and will go back to them over and over again,  exploring the different ways he can get them make noise. The Little Tikes Light 'n' Go 3-in-1 Sports Zone* has been such a big hit with him for that reason, and knowing how much he has gotten out of it, when the opportunity arose for us to try the Little Tikes Light 'n' Go 3-in-1 Activity Walker I couldn't really refuse! 

The walker is pretty easy to set up, the whole process probably taking about 5-10 minutes. It is multifunctional with different height levels depending on what you want it to do and - like with the Sports Zone - it can be folded down and neatly tucked away should you need it to be (ideal if you are lacking in storage or if you don't want your living room to look like a toy shop).

We set up the walker one evening when Eric had gone to bed and placed it in the middle of the living room ready for the morning. Personally I never really like to make a big fuss over new toys because I don't want to force Eric to feel he can only play with one thing. It's more exciting just leaving things sitting around to seeing if he notices that they are there. 

As soon as he spotted the walker he was straight over to it, a curious half smile on his face, ready to investigate.

He was particularly taken with the light show, catching on to what he had to do to make them appear and pushing the walker up and down. He also really enjoyed lifting the flaps and sliding the movable plastic elements up and down to see what would happen. 

The walker has three different modes of play there is a lot for a little one to explore. Each offer an educational aspect, teaching your child about colour, melody and music. There are things to spin, flaps to lift and buttons to press. 

A voice offers encouraging phrases, a tune begins to play and a light projector is triggered when the toy is pushed, and the more motion it senses, the more music is played and lights glow. So if your baby is learning to walk, this is a clever little touch that will help cheer them on. 

Not just a walker, but with the ability to use it as a stationary activity table for older ones or the option to simply be placed flat on the floor as a play centre for smaller babies, the Light 'n' Go walker really is a toy that can grow with your baby. From a mum's perspective that's something I really like - toys that are multifunctional, are really going to last and won't just be a two minute wonder!  

Little Tikes have really nailed it again when it comes to creating something that allows little ones to take ownership of their play and with Eric being the age he is, he did not need my help using any aspects of the walker. Of course if he was younger this may be different but for the stage he is at, it really helps nurture his independence.

The walker also provided us with lots to talk about, and I spent some time looking for different animals with him and playing peekaboo. Eric is babbling away at the moment and we think he is about to start talking properly soon (we hope at least) so anything that encourages him to do that is a winner in our eyes. 

There is just one minor negative that I've found with the walker and that is the volume of the motor. It does seem to be quite loud. Now I don't know if this is just our one but if the walker is not in motion and the lights are triggered there is a pretty noisy whirring sound that starts up. It doesn't last for long but it does happen so I thought it might be worth a mention.

I really, really like the Little Tikes Light 'n' Go 3-in-1 Activity Walker. It is durable, colourful, and encourages a lot of baby's emerging and developing skills (hand eye co-ordination and motor are definitely addressed). It is also really easy to modify, changing from flat to standing in a few seconds and all one handed friendly! 

Eric may be full of beans and a whirlwind when it comes to play but the 3-in-1 walker from Little Tikes is definitely something that he won't be growing out of any time soon. And even when the time eventually comes when he is too big for it, you can bet your bottom dollar we'll be storing it away for our future babies because, well, I just love it.

Have you ever tried anything from Little Tikes? Let me know about your experiences in the comments.

* I was very kindly gifted the Little Tikes Light 'n' Go Activity Walker to review. This does not affect my opinions. For more information, please see my disclaimer.

Little Tikes Light 'n' Go 3-in-1 Sports Zone Review* | Just Add Ginger

Generally speaking, Eric hasn't really been a baby who likes toys. Instead of sitting still for a couple of minutes and playing he has been more inclined to toddle around, items clutched in his hands, or else, investigating how things work. 

But in the past couple of weeks that seems to have changed a little bit. He now has definite favourites - toys that he will go back to again and again. And the link between them all are ones that are cause and effect. Whether that be a ball, his hopper or his shape sorter, you notice him gravitating towards toys that give him some kind of reward. 

So as soon as we peeled back the sellotape and opened the box of the Little Tikes Light 'n' Go 3-in-1 Sports Zone* I had a feeling we were on to a winner. Having very kindly been gifted it I couldn't wait to see what Eric made of it. It's one of those toys that you as a parent are secretly wishing your child to love so that you get to play with it too. It looks that good.

In terms of putting the Sports Zone together it all seemed pretty simple (Ryan did this bit) with the whole process taking less that twenty minutes. It is quite a wide toy but folds up into a really compact little unit that can easily be tucked out the way (and thus instantly abating my fears that our living room carpet is turning into an ocean of toys). 

I set up the Sports Zone first thing in the morning and left it sat unassumingly in front of the radiator to see if Eric would notice it. After breakfast we came into the living room and the moment I put E down he bumbled over to the Sports Zone to investigate.

The toy is offers a range of interactive settings, with an electronic scoreboard that lights up, a voice that offers directions or praise and noises that are triggered when you score a goal, hit down bowling pins or get the basketball through the net. 

There are three different modes for play, which are great for children of a slightly older age who understand words and sentences a lot more or who can be helped by a grown up. However with Eric these went over his head. All he was interested in was directing play for himself. 

He was very taken with the bowling pins, pushing them all back and making them pop forwards again and again. He also liked dropping the basketball through the hoop. The goal he didn't quite get the hang of, but you do have to hit the ball against it at reasonable force for it to register a goal. 

Throughout the day Eric kept going back to play with the Light 'n' Go 3-in-1 Sports Zone. The squeals of delight and the smiles were endless and he got so excited when the scoreboard lit up and talked to him. Little Tikes have designed something that lets children take full ownership of their play and Eric definitely did that. He didn't really need my help at all. 

The bowling pins are all reset by pushing large buttons on top of the frame which are easy for little hands to do, and the frame itself folds up and is extended with ease meaning if it was to shift slightly, Eric could manipulate it himself.

One thing I wanted to mention that I think parents will rejoice upon hearing is that there seems to be a sleep function that kicks in if your child has not interacted with the Sports Zone in a couple of minutes meaning that you are not in danger of music, voices or theme tunes being stuck in your head for hours on end. Thank you so much for this Little Tikes!

I think the Little Tikes Light 'n' Go 3-in-1 Sports Zone is going to be a big hit over the summer and beyond. It is lightweight and durable enough to be used inside or out (weather depending) and has a height adjustment setting so that it can grow with your child. The interactive features also mean that as Eric's understanding grows, so will what he gets out of playing with the toy. 

Does your little one have anything from Little Tikes? Let me know your recommendations in the comments.

* I was very kindly gifted the Little Tikes 3-in-1 Sports Zone to review. This does not affect my opinions. For more information, please see my disclaimer.

How To Keep Romance Alive When You Have A Baby | Just Add Ginger

As much as I love motherhood, being a parent is bloody hard work. The long hours, the sleep deprivation, the attempts at decoding what X,Y or Z cries mean.....it all takes its toll. And when you're married or with a partner, it sometimes is really difficult to draw the line between being parents and being in a relationship. At times it seems all you talk about is your child and nothing else. You get comfortable with the rhythm of everyday life and romance often gets forgotten.

But feeling loved and appreciated by your significant other is really important. Especially during your first year as parents. There will be arguments over nothing. There will be tears. There will be moments where you just snap at each other. So when there are times where things are running smoother and whatever outside stresses there are have settled, it's important to give that spark of love an extra nudge.

Image: Keyhole Studios

Put The Phones Down - We're all guilty of it. Slobbing out on the sofa, TV remote in one hand and phone in the other, aimlessly scrolling. It's a compulsion. A social media addiction. And a romance killer. It's a habit that needs to be kicked. Even though it may be all you want to do, try putting your phone to one side and instead talk to each other. And not just 'parent talk'. Properly connect with each other and engage in conversations with lots of open ended questions. A few weeks ago Ryan and I stayed up for hours just talking and drinking wine. We were hungover to death the next day but it helped us feel a lot closer than we had in a long time. And the biggest reason? There wasn't an electronic third wheel hanging round! 

Eat At The Table - This might not be relevant to everyone but if - like us - you are guilty of indulging in dinner times on the sofa then this one is for you. Eating at a dining table. It's such a simple thing to do but it really does make so much difference. We pissed around for ages before sorting out a proper place to eat, but now that we have, we are spending a lot more quality time together. Ryan is the chef in the house so when Eric has gone to sleep, he starts off the tea and I come in to the kitchen and sit with him while he cooks. We chat and catch up, listen to music and then eat together. It's extra time for us as a couple, away from screens and other distractions. Time where it is just the two of us, and we are the only ones we need to focus on. 

Designate Time For 'Parent Talk' - The first thing Ryan and I talk about when he walks through the door is Eric. Has he pooed? Has he slept? What has he eaten? Sometimes it's difficult to remember there's a big wide world out there. Slipping into the routine of talking about your baby is so easy but when it comes to your relationship the time you spend doing that needs to be kept to a minimum. Then you can be free to talk about other things - world events, your favourite wine....the weather. Something that means you get to take your mummy / daddy hats off - even if it's just for a moment.  

Keep Surprising Each Other - Flowers, chocolates, or even just a hot cup of coffee. Just because you are parents it doesn't mean the surprises should stop. Particularly if you time it perfectly. If you notice that your other half has been struggling with sleep, worried about weaning or stuck in the house for a few days due to inclement weather, treat them to things that are really personal and beneficial to the situation. Especially time - because you don't get much of it as a parent. Trust me it'll be so greatly appreciated. 

Intimacy - It had to appear on this list somewhere! When you're a parent sometimes having 'special cuddles' with your significant other is the last thing on your mind. But intimacy is important - in whatever form you want it to take. Kisses, cuddles and love making are all things that you should make time for. Sure - most of the time you won't want to. You'll be tired, frazzled and frantic. But being tactile - even if it's just holding hands or curling up together on the sofa - is one of the quickest ways to remind one another that you are there for each other, that love is still there, and that it isn't going anywhere anytime soon.

10 Things I've Learnt About Motherhood | Just Add Ginger

It is true what they say - becoming a parent does change you, and in ways that you would never have dreamed. So inspired by an idea given to me by Sam - here are some of the biggest and most interesting things I've learnt about myself - and motherhood - over the past 12 months.

1. You Master The Art Of Not Giving A Shit To Perfection - Since becoming a parent I have learnt that I really don't care what people think of me. Yes the vain side of me still likes getting compliments and feeling that I look good, but when it comes to life on a day-to-day basis, I no longer give two hoots. There seems to be the surge of confidence that has come over me since having Eric that means I don't really care about how the world sees me. I know I'm a good mum and a good wife and a good friend and a good person. That's all that matters.

2. You Learn Who Your True Friends Are - When you are a parent every part of your world changes, including your social circles. You no longer have the time to constantly make plans, meet up or travel, and when you do it often needs meticulous planning. You want to be there (and the FOMO is real) but you just can't be. And this means that friendships change and some of them may even disappear. And that's okay. Because it's the ones who stay firmly fixed, the ones who understand that your friendship has evolved into something new and embrace the new hat you wear, they are the ones who really matter.

3. You No Longer Have Time For Playground Games - Pettiness, being catty and holding on to the little things - you just don't want to know about them any more. There are much bigger and more important things to worry about and getting involved in childishness isn't one of them. Playground games and squabbles should stick to wear they belong....next to the hopscotch lines with the rest of the five year olds!

4. You Develop The Ability To Predict The Future - As a mum you have this sixth sense. You can see things happen before the do and avert disaster. I am constantly jumping up to move pieces of paper, books and toys out of Eric's way before he slips, stumbles or trips over them. The same goes for objects I know he's going to be tempted to stick in his mouth or mistake for food. As soon as I enter a room I instinctively scan it and hone in on the hazards and make the space safe or get things out of the way.

5. You Develop This Superpower To Power Through Hangovers - They don't happen as much as they used to, but when there are occasions when I've let my hair down and indulged in one too many glasses of red then the next day I somehow have this ability to just feel okay. Sure I might feel just the tiniest bit fuzzy but overall I seem to avoid the feeling of wanting to curl up in a ball and hibernate with a packet of crisps and a gallon of water. I don't know how it happens but it does, and it shocks me every time.

6. You Realise There's A Lioness Living Inside You You Never Knew Was There - I am so, so over-protective of Eric. Not in a stifling kind of way (I let him be as independent as possible) but in the sense that there is nothing I wouldn't do for him. All I want to do is love him and protect him from harm. I hate seeing him upset or in pain so if there's anything I can do to keep him happy and content, steady and safe then I am going to do it.

7. Talking About Bodily Functions Becomes Second Nature - The first question that normally gets asked when Ryan gets in from work is 'has Eric pooed today?' Talking about poop, wee, reflux and snot just becomes normality when you become a parent. Not just in between mums and dads but in front of anyone. Don't get me wrong I don't just randomly bring up my or my son's toilet habits as a conversation starter, but that prudishness (not that I really ever had that) that is centred around things like that seems to just slip away when you become a parent.

8. Instead Of Adding Things To Your Own Online Shopping Baskets, You Become Obsessed With Buying Things For Baby Instead - I used to love shopping for myself online, but now I'd much rather look at things for Eric. Not that he needs much - he has an enviable wardrobe full of cute clothes and never wants for toys, but it's like a compulsion. No matter how many items of clothing he has, I can always think of something he might need or that 'would be useful to have in stock.' You can't really blame me though - baby clothes are just too bloody cute to resist!

9. No Matter How Little You've Slept, You Still Manage To Act Fully Awake - I don't know if it's just me, but even though Eric is really a really good sleeper, I am not. I'm a light sleep anyway but now it seems like if there is just a tiny grunt or grizzle my eyes pop open and it takes me ages to settle. I even sometimes hear phantom noises and convince myself it's Eric (the other night I mistook a rustling piece of rubbish outside for him crying). This means that sometimes the amount of shut-eye I get is really minimal. However, whether I've had a good night's kip or not, come the morning I am awake and back to being 'Silly Mummy'. Now that Eric is mobile I don't have a choice. He needs chasing, entertaining and to be taken to classes. He doesn't understand if I have zero energy. All he understands is that I'm here, so no matter what, I need to stay full of beans.

10. Life Takes On A Whole New Meaning - Before Baby you live a somewhat 'selfish' life. You can go anywhere you want and do anything you want because all you have to worry about is number one. But when you have a little one everything you do becomes about them. Anytime we want to go somewhere the first thing we think about is if it is Eric-friendly. Weekends we would have spent just lounging about on the sofa and doing nothing are now filled with trips out, nature walks and family coffee dates. Eric is the centre of our universe and we plan everything with him in mind so that he has the best and most exciting time.

Advice For New Mums | Just Add Ginger

I went into parenthood knowing very little about babies. Nevermind changing a nappy, my experience just holding a newborn was very limited. When it came to becoming a mother, I didn't know what to expect. And when you leave the hospital, there's no manual they give you. You walk out, baby on arm, and are just expected to get on with it. And if your experiences with little ones is minimal, this can be incredibly frightening. 

Now I'm no expert, and I would never tell you how to be a parent, but in the seven (nearly eight) months that Baby Ginger has been on the planet, there are some pieces of wisdom I've learnt and want to pass on. 

Take Your Time

Giving birth is tough work. It puts a big strain on your body and it takes a while afterwards for everything to settle and get back to normal. During this time it's important to rest and really listen to your body and what it needs. If you need to sleep, then sleep. If you need everyone to leave you alone, then ask friends and family to hold off on visits. It's important not to rush yourself into doing things you are just not ready to do. 

Trust Your Instincts

I didn't believe this when I first heard it, but it is true. You really do get to know your own baby. You get to learn their little quirks, their likes and dislikes, and how to gauge what they need. It may not click at once, but give it a few months and with every coo, cry or gurgle you will instantly be able to decode what you need to do to keep your baby happy. And honing in on these cues is really important, because it means that you will know when something is off. Even if to everybody else your little one seems normal, if you sense something isn't quite the way it should be, then really pay attention and listen to your baby. 

"Mummy" In Your Own Way 

There will be so many people in your life who are ready to give you advice about how you should look after your baby, but ultimately it is up to you what you do and how you do it. And this goes hand in hand with trusting your instincts in the point I made above. In that time you've had that time to get to know your baby, you will know him/her better than anybody else. So take any advice you get with a pinch of salt. Take heed if you like, but if you don't really agree, take it on board, say thank you, then feel free to ignore it. When you're spending 24 hours a day, 7 days a week with your baby, you'll understand what works for you and what doesn't

Eric, for example, needs his sleep. If he's had a bad night or misses a nap time he is an absolute nightmare and really hard to keep happy. So if he needs to sleep, I'll let him sleep, even if this means missing out on a class or not going out. Some may think this is not the way to go about things, but I know Eric enough to know how to manage him. Because if I just keep him awake, then I'll be paying for it later. And personally, I value my sleep (and my sanity) way too much.

Stay Social

Being on maternity leave can be incredibly isolating. You're at home looking after your baby day in day out with nobody to really talk to. It can be really hard. Which is why I think it is so important to get out there and get social (when you're ready to of course.) 

I'm a big fan of baby groups and classes. It gives Baby Ginger a change of scenery that is safe, exciting and stimulating, whilst giving me some precious "grown up time" where I can interact with parents/carers and have proper conversations. Having that time is something I truly value, and Eric is learning so much from watching and socialising with other babies. He's really happy around new people and isn't clingy, and I really think this is because he has been exposed to new spaces and faces from quite a young age. 

I also use a few apps to connect with other mums in my local area. Mush, Peanut & Mummy Social are great platforms to find activity and class recommendations, find mummy friends (even if they are just online) and plan potential play dates. Having moved to a new area of Liverpool during maternity leave, I'm still trying to work out where there are classes I can take Baby Ginger and where the best soft play areas are, so talking to other mums who know and use the area is really handy (it also helps me not feel lonely too.)

Aside from connecting with new friends, it's also really important to stay in touch with your non-new -mummy friends. Because when it comes down to it, being a new parent is only just one part of who you are. I thought when we brought Eric home I would feel something overtake me that meant I was suddenly this grown up person so far removed from the person I used to be that I would feel entirely different. But in reality I feel exactly the same....only now I have a child to look after so am a little bit  more responsible than before. 

Are you a new parent too? What pearls of wisdom would you pass on?

The One Handed Parenting Challenge | Just Add Ginger

Becoming a parent has hands down got to be one of the most empowering things that could have ever happened to me. It has not only shown me how strong I am but also taught me so much about myself. 

In the months leading up to Baby Ginger's arrival I was full of trepidation when it came to thinking about just how I was going to parent. Even the most simplest of tasks seemed daunting, and with there being so few resources, my confidence was instantly low. However, never having been the type to shy away from a challenge I tackled everything head on. Sure it was intimidating at times, but now, nearly seven months in, there isn't anything that scares me anymore. 

The idea of a one handed parenting challenge came when I realised that you can't really make the outside world understand what something is like to live with until you make them step into your shoes. So this is what I want to try and do. To try and get people to understand what not just parenting one handed is like, but to appreciate just exactly what time, patience and sheer skill goes into it. 

Ryan was the first "volunteer" but I'm hoping that if friends and family see this video they will be keen to sign up too. It's a fun little video but one that carries an important message with it. One that helps get people talking, sharing and ultimately understanding that just because somebody does things a little differently it doesn't mean they are not done just as well. 

Disability should not be a taboo subject nor is it something that should be looked down upon. There needs to be equality, and when it comes to this, support is seriously lacking. And if this challenge or indeed any of my videos help highlight that and one day puts wheels in motion for change, then that is all I could ever hope for.

Eric At Six Months | Just Add Ginger

Sometimes I have to take a step back and remind myself that I have only been a mother for six months. Since Eric arrived time has just flown by in an excited whirlwind and it only seems like yesterday I was bouncing on my birthing ball willing myself into labour.

Although my little Baby Ginger features a lot on my channel, I very rarely talk a lot about him. Naturally my Insta Stories are full of videos, photos and anecdotes that track his day-to-day antics, but as soon as he hit the six month mark I realised it was about time for a proper update. 

On The Daily

Usually Eric is a good little sleeper. He will go down in between 9 and 10pm and wake up in between 7 and 8am. I change his nappy upstairs, say hello to the baby in the mirror (he loves that game) then bring him downstairs to get him dressed and give him breakfast. 

He's not quite yet in a structured routine but will go down for 2-3 naps during the day - once in the morning and two in the afternoon. And he is a baby who needs his sleep. He is on the go all the time and if you're not careful it can all get a bit too much and he is an absolute nightmare, not wanting to play, not wanting to sleep, and generally getting himself into a pickle. 

We do not bath Eric everyday because his skin is really sensetive and susceptible to becoming really dry. So for us, a bedtime routine consists of "pyjama time" at about 7pm, followed by soft lighting, snuggles and a calm atmosphere. He won't go to sleep until about 9-10pm and then he will sleep through (most of the time). 

Weaning 

Weaning is going really well for us so far. Starting off on purees, we are now starting to introdue more variety, slipping in some finger foods and different textures. I try to stick to a definite breakfast-lunch-dinner routine so that Eric learns when to expect more food and to get him used to three meals a day. 

Activities

I try to do something or take Eric somewhere everyday, always working around his nap times as much as possible. On a Tuesday, Wednesday and Friday we go to a class, and then on Fridays we take a walk down to the canal to feed the ducks. Mondays are a bit crazy as it's usually my time to get the house back to normal after the weekend, catch up on chores, and write. Thursdays are a bit of an odd one because in the afternoon I have my CBT session so we tend to just take it easy so things don't get too rushed. 

For toys, Baby Ginger loves lights, sounds and books. He will happily enterain himself for a while, and is currently obsessed with rolling around all over the place. His concentration span is increasing and at classes he is starting to get more confident and notice other babies around him.

Bonding 

Right from the start we just passed Baby Ginger round to everyone. And now he is perfectly content around family, friends and strangers too. We haven't experienced any clingyness yet (thank goodness) but of course this may change. When it comes to Ryan and I, Eric definitely prefers to cuddle and sit with daddy, or be in the kitchen with him while he cooks, and with me he would rather play. He will look and seek reassurance from me but will only seek out cuddles when he is really tired or upset. I don't mind though - I'm sure the hugs will come in time. 

If you want to find out more about Eric - or Baby Ginger - I share a lot more details in his 6 month update video.

Surviving Your First Baby Class | Just Add Ginger

The idea of stepping out into the world as a new parent can be incredibly daunting. There is suddenly so much more to think about, and the idea of "popping out quickly" to the shops goes straight out the window. But getting out there as soon as you are ready is really important. It can be so easy to forgo the jeans for jammies and bum around the house all day, but this can set you off down a dangerous road of isolation.

When it came to the time to think about what classes I was going to take Eric too, it was a mix of excitement and trepidation. But just as it will be invaluable for babies to attend classes and socialise, it is also increibly beneficial for us as new parents too. 

Do Your Research 

Knowing where to look to figure out what classes are out there can be a bit confusing. The best place to start is looking at any children's centres in your local area, then getting in touch with libraries as they sometimes run classses or storytimes for little ones. Aside from the free classes that are out there there are courses that you can pay for (Baby Sensory has been a big hit with us)! 

Remember these classes are just as much for you as they are your baby, so take some time to think about all the practicalities. That class that is 10 miles away may sound fabulous, but will you be meeting the same mummies and seeing the same faces anywhere else? Having mummy friends or just some time with other mums is really important, so sit down, break out Google, and see what you can find in your more local area first.

Take A Wingman / Wingwoman 

This may be a shock to some of you, but I am not actually that shy. When it comes to having to go to things on my own I couldn't be less fussed. I've taken myself out to dinner, to the cinema and even to a concert before, so when it came to going to classes I wasn't really that bothered. However, if you are feeling a bit nervous about attending a baby class on your own, ask around and see if you can find someone to go with you for moral support. Taking baby out on your own to somewhere new can be a bit intimidating, so having someone there you know to lend a hand or just talk to if you are feeling a bit anxious can really help. 

One handed parents - you might want to find someone to go with you the first time to assess the changing facilities. I found this really handy and it helped me plan accordingly, minimising any potentially awkward situations.

Smile

It is so simple but so effective. If you're feeling a tad nervous and don't feel like you want to approach a fellow mum or dad to introduce yourself just smile. It instantly creates an opportunity for conversation and breaks the ice without trying too hard. You never know, the person you show friendliness too might just be feeling the same way. 

Embrace Embarassing Moments 

Most people who run baby classes will be prepared to see everything, because well, babies are babies. So yes, at somepoint your child may spit up everywhere, have a huge meltdown because they are hungry, do a huge smelly poo or wee everywhere. But that's okay! It's nothing to be embarassed about at all. It may have happened to you one week, but next week it's somebody else's turn. You are all parents. You are all in this together. So pack some extra wipes and sanitising gel and take your turn at being the mummy with the red face. 

Ask 

This one is a little tip for any fellow mums or dads who parent one handed. At your first class, try to make a point of going to speak to the class leader to introduce yourself. Explain your needs and ask about any adaptations you might need to exercises or activities during the class. This will help you prepare for any extra equipment you might need to take, and makes the leader aware, thus eliminating constant repetition and explanations on your part (which can be a tad frustrating).

The first time you go to a baby class can be really daunting to think about, particularly if you are going on your own. But once you've stepped out of your comfort zone, stepped out and survived your first session, you'll be surprised how much your confidence will kick in, introducing you to a whole new social circle, the opportunity to meet new friends, and talk to those who absolutely 100% understand what you are going through

Kit & Kin Nappies First Impressions* | Just Add Ginger

When you become a parent, you suddenly take an active interest in things that you never thought you would. The space in your brain that once daydreamed about those gorgeous shoes in that shop now wonders which places do the babygrows that wash the best. Up until I had a baby, I didn't think twice about nappies, but as soon as Eric arrived, that all changed.

I don't think you ever quite realise just how many nappies you are going to get through until you find yourself on the third supermarket shop in a month because you have run out....again. They take over your life. You talk about how many you've changed in a day, what has been filling them and whether or not your baby is starting to get to big for them. Before you know it, your bin is full of nappy sacks and you are left scratching your head because it only feels like 10 minutes have passed since it was emptied. 

With nappies so big a part of my life now, it is no surprise that when I stumbled upon the Instagram account for Kit & Kin I got quite excited. A total sucker for anything cute, it was the designs that caught my eye first. But then I started reading up about them and their core values and was even more impressed. They don't just take into account babies, their products think about the environment and the impact disposable nappies have (nappies are one of the biggest 'contributors to landfill in the world'). 

As a mum who parents one handed, finding new baby products that make things a bit smoother is really important. And because I was so intrigued by Kit & Kin as a brand, I decided to reach out and see if they would be happy to send me some nappies to test out. 

It was with gleeful curiosity that I waited for my sample pack to arrive. It must have sat there for a good week or so before I found the perfect time to give them a go. If they were as good as I hoped they would be, then that'd be another thing to add to the list of 'one handed friendly' products that I could recommend. 

Thinking I had picked a good moment for a nappy change, I got all set to put on the first of the two I received on Eric. Of course this just happened to be one of the days he decided to perform a surprise wee on his changing mat. Very quickly, my trial duo of nappies became a trial single. (Great timing kid!)

It didn't start as I had intended but I was still anxious to see how this nappy measured up to the others we use. We have our favourites (everybody does) and some that I wouldn't use again, so it would be interesting to see where Kit & Kin slotted in on that scale. 

Right off the bat I was incredibly impressed with how durable and well crafted the nappy felt. It didn't give me reason to think that it was ready to collapse at the first sign of a giant wee or poonami. The tabs were also great, with a lot of stick to them and really easy to both separate and close over the front of the nappy (which for me is incredibly important).  

We put this nappy on Eric just before we went out so it was on him for a good few hours. I was really impressed with how much the nappy held. it was pretty hefty when it came to change him but he didn't seem bothered by it and the exterior of the nappy itself showed no signs of being so full. 

I know that I only had one nappy to try, but I have to say I was incredibly impressed by the Kit & Kin nappy. It was durable and well made and so easy for me to put on and take off. Plus.....have you seen how cute they are? And to top it all they are biodegradable. At a first look I cannot see any downsides. 

Kit & Kin offer packs of 40 nappies (in sizes 1 to 5), skincare and nappy sacks and an 'eco nappies bundle'. From looking at the website everything seems pretty affordable too. The only (very small) downfall..... you have to order online, which means you need to be super organised to ensure you don't find yourself about to run out (although this could be solved if you opted for the bundle subscription). 

Even though I only got a small insight into what Kit & Kin are like as a brand and the products they offer, I am really keen to investigate more. I'm already eyeing up the nappy sacks and skincare and of course am looking into ordering a full pack of nappies so that I can give them a proper go. 

A brand that cares about babies and is eco-friendly? What more could you ask for? 

* I got in touch with Kit & Kin on Facebook and one of their team offered to post out a sample pack to me. This does not mean I'm obliged to do this post (it was just super-kind of them). My opinions are always 100% honest and influenced by my experiences

The Unwanted Friend | Just Add Ginger

Anxiety isn't your friend,

Nor does it want to be. 

And yet it will creep up beside you, take 

your hand and say "come with me". 

It will lead you into the dark places. 

The ones kept at the back of your head. 

The ones that when you think of them, 

Just fill your heart with dread. 

Anxiety is a foul smell 

that's carried in on the evening air. 

It lingers and tickles your nostrils. 

You can't see it and yet it is there. 

It steals good days in abundance, 

Smiles are it's favourite to eat. 

And just when you think it's vanished, 

those times it just waits to defeat. 

It likes to think it can own you 

when you're alone and scared in the night. 

But those are the times to remember 

that you have to continue to fight. 

My story is not one of solution - 

of that I could never advise. 

But it is one of raw truth telling 

in the hope you might empathise. 

And to the warriors who fight along with me. 

In standing with you I find courage to fight 

these feelings of stress, woe and sadness. 

Those thoughts that don't make me feel right. 

I've come to the end of my story. 

That's it - done and dusted, the end. 

The truth is you never know 

just what someone's going through. 

That's why it's important to just be a friend.