Thule Urban Glide 2 Review
I’ll caveat this review by saying I may be a little biased when it comes to Swedish brand Thule - the reason being, I’m half Swedish. I do however think my favourable views on Scandinavian products come with good reason. On the whole, they tend to be thoughtfully designed, stylish but simple and have brilliant durability.
The Thule Glide 2 did not disappoint on this front. It is very much a multi-terrain, multi purpose stroller which seamlessly handles both urban environments as the name suggests, but also off-roading and jogging, making it incredibly versatile.
Having road tested many buggies now - Thule, known for its commitment to outdoor enthusiasts, delivers a promising contender as a perfect all rounder with the Urban Glide 2 if you’re looking for a pushchair that is suitable for both running and day to day use.
First Impressions
My first impression of the Thule Urban Glide 2 was the very obvious high quality of materials. It is stylish, well designed and looks and feels sturdy and robust. It was also incredibly smooth and light to manoeuvre with superior suspension.
Unboxing and Assembly
Unlike a few pushchairs I’ve road tested, the Thule Urban Glide 2 was incredibly simple to put together. It was pretty much just a case of folding out the frame and popping the wheels on and it was unboxed and assembled within less than 15 minutes. Big thumbs up for ease as I’m not a fan of 200 small parts! No fiddly or strenuous flat-pack-esque construction involved whatsoever (something we’d maybe expect from a Swedish brand!).
A note that accessories need to be purchased separately - for example the cup holder, rain cover, bumper bar and bassinet.
Design and Quality
This is a sleek, stylish pushchair. We tested the newer black on black frame and I like the fact this could be something you’d take into town for a coffee or for a country walk. It gives off a premium aesthetic so if appearance is important for you - The Urban Glide 2 certainly ticks the box.
It comes in three colour combinations, all are natural, muted tones - with the option of a black or aluminium frame and a black, blue or grey canopy.
The hood canopy has a peekaboo window so you can keep an eye on your little one and the fabric is water resistant and easily wiped down if there are any spills or accidents.
Age Range
The Urban Glide 2 is for children from birth up to 22kg (around 4-5 years old). It has an optional additional bassinet attachment available making it suitable from newborn upwards. The bassinet is easy to assemble with the frame and folds flat, so transporting it in the car or popping it away after use is incredibly straightforward. The bassinet is well padded and sturdy, a friend of ours has a two month old baby who was our chief tester and he seemed incredibly cosy as we went for a stroll! The bassinet is also compatible with the Thule Urban Glide 2 Double, so if you have two young children this is a fantastic choice for longevity.
The upright toddler seat is what I have primarily used for our 15 month old daughter. It reclines flat with one hand so works well during naps. One downside for me personally is the most upright option available is still relatively angled and my daughter enjoys being very upright! This was easily resolved by popping some padding behind the fabric seat but it could benefit from a soft wedge to pop behind her lower back so she’s a little more elevated.
In regards to age and using this as a running pushchair - note that jogging with babies under 8 months old is not advised, due to their head and neck stability and overall level of physical development being unable to withstand high impact movement when running. It’s worth consulting your GP or a paediatrician before you begin regular jogging with children under one year old.
Safety Features:
The Thule Urban Glide 2 has safety at the forefront of it’s design. All Thule products go through rigorous testing in areas such as durability, impact, stability and tipping. It has reflective materials on the rim and canopy edges for visibility - I would have loved to see more of this material but only because we are out and about quite a bit during the darker winter months. It boasts a 5 point Harness system which is secure and easy to put together. One side attaches at a time so it's possible to do one handed.
The canopy is generous on both the bassinet and upright seat, providing both weather and UV protection (UPF 50+).
There are two options for control and brakes - one twist brake on the handle bar which was unique and useful for quick stops or navigating slopes. The second footbrake is also easy to operate and because of it’s open design, doesn’t tend to get clogged with mud and dirt.
Comfort
Although my daughter can’t talk, she would make up for it in her own vocal way if she wasn’t comfortable and she seems incredibly content every time we are out and about in the Urban Glide. Both the bassinet and toddler seat are well padded and ventilated so although I am testing during colder weather, it would fare well when the temperatures rise in Summer. The five point harness sits snugly and the padding doesn’t slip on her shoulders, furthermore it is easy to adjust when necessary.
Storage
This pushchair truly hits the mark when it comes to storage. The Basket underneath the frame is huge and gives you ample space (ideal for shopping!). You can easily store your rain cover, a bag / spare clothes and my large winter coat went in easily when I took it off during a long walk.
There are two more additional storage compartments, one zip pocket at the front of the main base compartment which is perfect for smaller valuables such as keys or your purse. There is also a net storage bag on the back of the seat which is handy for things like childrens drinks or quick access snacks.
Adjustability and Folding Down
The Urban Glide 2 offers a one handed fold - this took a couple of attempts from me but once you get the technique it’s incredibly easy. Fitting it into the boot of the car does take up some space, when packed down it measures 87 x 69 x 34 cm however if you pop off the wheels (very easy to do) it allows for much more versatility. It was preferable doing this anyway due to mud on the wheels after walks.
The handle angle is one of my favourite things about this pushchair. The handle is ergonomically designed so that your hands are drawn down either side of it, with a turn brake in the middle. This meant my overall posture when walking and pushing the stroller was balanced and encouraged me to be more upright with my shoulders back (I’m no pilates expert but I felt so much more comfortable than hunched over a straight bar handle!) You can also move it to any height you wish with the buttons either side, (lower down to make it more compact when parked, or for if your toddler wants to get out and push they can reach!) and high enough for my taller husband. The material was also smooth but allowed for great grip, even when my hands were hot it didn’t become slippery.
Price and Value for Money
The Urban Glide 2 in my opinion offers three for one - if you are looking for a pushchair for running, city strolls and off roading it covers all functions effortlessly and therefore for me, justifies the price tag. At the time of publication these retail for £599.99. This does not include the bassinet which is sold separately for £249.99. Bare in mind the accessories are also extra - but many you may not feel you need and in a way it’s a benefit to just pick and choose what you personally require.
Pros
The handle angle, comfort and versatility.
Wheels and Suspension - The Thule Urban Glide 2 really does glide. The back wheels are 16” and it felt able to handle most terrain with ease and without your baby bumping around. The front wheel can also be locked in position for running.
Brakes - it was so useful having one brake on the handle bar for temporary stops as well as an easy to use foot brake.
Cons
The seat angle (personal preference and can be easily resolved).
Width - this is quite a wide pushchair, since I mainly use this pushchair for walks and popping into town it's not such an issue but if I was living in a city and wanted it for shopping daily, it is certainly a little tricker to get in and out of narrow doorways.
The cup holder - It’s fab for water bottles and reminded me to bring mine with me! However due to the angle it’s not suitable for hot drinks, which means coffee has to stay safely in your hand.
Dimensions and Weight Spec
Max child weight - 22 kg
Max stroller weight capacity - 34 kg
Folded dimensions - 87 x 69 x 34 cm
Weight - 11.5 kg
Shoulder width - 31.5 cm
Sitting height - 53 cm
Door pass through - 69 cm
Safety harness - 5-point
Conclusion
The Thule Urban Glide has proven to be a great all round pushchair and very suitable for our lifestyle - dog walks and semi rural with occasional visits to town. It is also super for running and my husband has used it for this many times and found it to be smooth, manoeuvrable with great suspension meaning comfort for our toddler.
If you’re torn between a jogging buggy, an off road stroller and a day-to-day pushchair, this does all three so in terms of value for money, it is an excellent option.
Returning to Exercise after Having a Baby - Should I hit the gym on holiday?
Knowing when and how to return to exercise after having a baby is a confusing and daunting challenge for many new mums.
Although this topic seems not strictly travel related - often on holiday we are faced with the dilemma of utilising the super smart gym (would be a waste not to?) or the fun looking classes - yoga anyone? Aqua Aerobics? But if you’re on a postpartum journey and unsure if you’re ready, its worth reading this advice and getting a gauge on where you’re at personally and where to make a healthy start.
On the one hand, studies have shown that postnatal exercise has a positive impact on a new mother’s mental health and can reduce the onset of postnatal depression. However, concerns over pelvic floor health and overall postanal recovery can make new mothers feel anxious and cautious about pushing themselves too far and too soon.
Add to this the challenge of actually finding the time and energy to exercise with a new baby, and you can easily see how popping on the running trainers and heading out for a jog is not the carefree and spontaneous activity it used to be pre-baby!
To help you assess all the factors that should be considered when deciding on the right time to exercise after having a baby, we’ve pulled together some expert advice from our trusted team of Physiotherapists, Nutritionists, Postnatal Fitness Instructors and Pilates Instructors to help you construct a postpartum fitness routine that’s right for you and your body.
When can I exercise again after having a baby?
“Returning to exercise after having a baby has so many benefits for our physical and mental health, however it can be hard to work out where to start, “ says physiotherapist Clare Bourne.
“My advice is to remember that the initial stage of returning to exercise may feel slower and more like rehab than what you are used to, but slow and steady really does win the race.
Though we may hear of needing to wait 6 weeks before restarting exercise, this isn’t a definitive cut off when we are no longer healing or recovering. This is just the timescale of soft tissue healing. I prefer to view it as a continuum from when we birth our babies until we are back to what we love, and this timescale will be different for everyone.”
Rosie Cardale from the Mummy MOT says, “It’s important to remember that no matter how fit you were before the birth of your baby, it is your pelvic floor, back, and pelvis that you are trying to rehabilitate and protect.
A return to exercise too early can cause immediate or long-term problems to these areas that may, in some cases, be irreversible. Common problems that can occur include musculoskeletal pain and dysfunction, urinary incontinence, abdominal separation, and pelvic organ prolapse.”
Should you use the gym on holiday?
Creating a gradual fitness plan
“Start with deep breathing and pelvic floor exercises in the early days and weeks, alongside short walks,” advises Clare.
“Then once you reach six weeks, start to think about bodyweight movements, like squats and lunges, postnatal pilates or finding a postnatal exercise programme.
There is no rush and don’t compare yourself to anyone else because everyone has their own experience and story. It is important to listen to our bodies and take note of any symptoms, such as urine leakage, or heaviness in the vagina or joint pain.”
Gentle exercises like yoga and pilates can be a great way to regain strength and build up your confidence again, without pushing yourself too far.
“In a Pilates session we focus on the pelvic floor and any ab separation you might have,” says Nathalie Clough, Pilates Expert.
“If mothers had a C section, the recovery and exercises after can be very different to a vaginal birth. I recommend trying to allocate yourself time without any distractions if you are going to look at moving. This way you can fully focus on yourself and your needs at that time, which is so important for any recovery.
Little and often is my motto. This obviously works well when trying to fit in some exercises in between feeding, sleeping and any other schedule you might have. That way you can monitor what might be too much, or too little and gauge how you want to move next time you exercise.”
Nathalie offers in person and online 1:1 pilates packages. Click the links for more information if this is something you’d like to build into your postpartum exercise programme.
Building up to high impact exercise
For many mothers, returning to the exercise routine they loved and thrived on before having a baby is essential for their wellbeing and sense of identity. But when is it safe to embrace high impact exercise again?
“Returning to impact exercise, like running or jumping, is not advised for most until around 12 weeks, and for others it can be past this point,” says Claire.
Zoe, the Founder of Fit Mum Berkshire, wrote a piece for bloss about creating the optimum postnatal timeline in order to build up to high impact exercise like running and jumping. She recommends using the free NHS Couch to 5k programme to start running safely again.
“Adding high impact exercises such as jumps and running is the last thing to add in the postnatal journey. This type of exercise creates the most impact on our pelvic floor, core and joints so we want to ensure we have taken the time to regain strength and stability throughout the body first. When starting running again, even if you ran during your pregnancy, start right from the beginning,”
“The main challenge of running is that it is a single-leg sport,” adds Rosie. “This means that we shift from one leg to the other. The force that travels through each leg can be in excess of three times our body weight. This force therefore also needs to be absorbed by our pelvic structures and pelvic floor.
Over a 5km run, we could take up to 4,000 steps which impact joints, tendons, and muscles. This is why it is so important that we gradually build up strength to cope with this.
Your Mummy MOT practitioner may refer to these guidelines and use some of the single-leg strength tests that they have highlighted as being good indicators of a safe return to running.”
I can highly recommend booking a consultation with a Mummy MOT practitioner before returning to high impact exercise. I met with founder Maria Elliott after I had my second daughter and her advice was second to none.
Sports Pushchair
If getting out and about to exercise is proving tricky when it comes to childcare, bring your baby along with you! We road tested the Cybex Zeno 4 in 1 Multisport which is an amazing sports stroller that seamlessly converts with various attachments allowing you to run, cycle (and even ski!) hands free with your little one in tow. The Zeno Multisport was a breeze to assemble and to use its comfortable to manoeuvre whilst looking sleek and stylish. We loved using it as a bike trailer too - the outer mesh is breathable but its full coverage and 3 point harness allows your child to stay secure - and on cooler mornings, our official 10 month old tester was snuggled up in her Cybex Snogga 2 footmuff. This fits all Cybex stroller models and rolls up conveniently into a little bag which is fab for storage. A sports pushchair is a brilliant addition to your postnatal exercise regime as it offers both freedom and flexibility on those days you just need a little nudge of motivation. Fresh air is also always a winner for both you and your little one!
How might my pelvic floor be affected after having a baby and what signs should I look out for before returning to exercise?
If you’ve had a baby, your pelvic floor muscles may not function at full capacity for a while after your baby’s birth. Pelvic health experts, Leto, have outlined the following symptoms as key indicators of pelvic floor dysfunction, which might also being affected by the menopause, chronic constipation, high impact exercise, smoking or being overweight.
Symptoms of Pelvic Floor Dysfunction:
Leakage of the bladder or bowel during impact exercises or when coughing, laughing, and sneezing.
Urge incontinence: when you feel the sudden and urgent need to pass urine or stools, and may or may not be able to ‘hold on’.
Needing to go to the toilet more often than what’s normal for you.
Vaginal dryness.
A dragging or heavy feeling in the vagina.
Reduced sensation or pleasure from sex.
Painful sex.
“As you can imagine, any of the symptoms above can have a significant impact on your quality of life. Pelvic floor dysfunction can limit what you do or what you feel confident doing, including exercise, intimacy with a partner, even wearing certain clothes.”
If you are experiencing any of the above symptoms, you should seek the help of a specialist pelvic health physiotherapist, and this is especially important if you are planning to return to exercise after having a baby.
Leto recommend all new mothers book in for a postnatal check at around 6-8 weeks postpartum. You can book in for your Leto postnatal check here.
Pelvic floor exercises before and after birth
If you're looking for a physio-recommended piece of tech that gives kegel exercises a whole new perspective - I can personally recommend the Elvie Trainer. This clever device connects to an app via bluetooth - visualising your pelvic floor movements in real time using biofeedback.
It's common to incorrectly 'push down' during pelvic floor exercises and the Elvie Trainer is able to recognise this and guide you through the exercises correctly, keeping your technique in check. There are varying levels depending on your pelvic prowess, but even a short 5 minutes per day, three + times per week yields great results in just 4 weeks.
You can even use it when you're pregnant (just wait until after your postnatal check before you start using post-baby!). We loved the fact it's simple, easy and comfortable to use, as well as 'distracting' you into a game-like experience on your app (which is actually good fun!).
Regular motivational reminders via the app also help keep you on track...
Diastasis Recti after birth
Diastasis Recti, or divarication, is the term used to describe the separation of the two muscles that run down the middle of your stomach during pregnancy.
This is really common and occurs because your growing womb pushes the muscles apart, stretching and weakening them.
The amount of separation varies from mother to mother but it will usually go back to normal by the time your baby is 8 weeks old. However, the severity of your muscle separation may have an impact on what feels comfortable when exercising and what is safe, so it’s important to have your stomach muscles assessed by a GP, midwife or physiotherapist.
For more information about Diastasis Recti, check out Physiotherapist Grainne Donnelly for some great resources.
Can I exercise whilst breastfeeding?
Exercise is widely accepted as being safe for breastfeeding mothers, and light to moderate exercise does not affect the taste, amount, quality or composition of breastmilk.
However, if you are exercising to lose weight after having a baby, and are still breastfeeding, fitness instructor Mari-Carmen has some advice on how to ensure your exercise regime does not affect your milk supply.
“For breast-feeding mummies, you are still nourishing your baby just like in pregnancy, so it is important to eat enough calories. You do have to take into consideration that your body is burning more calories to provide your milk supply. Producing breast milk can burn between 300-500 calories.”
She recommends that eating enough, drinking 2-3 litres of water a day and setting realistic goals are key to ensure your milk supply is not affected by postnatal exercise.
Don’t put pressure on yourself to do too much too soon
Whatever your motivation for returning to exercise after having a baby - mental health, personal fitness, weight loss, or something else - it’s important to remember that it’s your own personal journey and external pressures are something to be avoided.
“It can be incredibly difficult to find the time to exercise with a baby and/or young children. If you do find the time, remember that your return to exercise needs to be respectful of your body with a focus on rebuilding your core before returning to more strenuous exercise, however frustrating that is for some, “ advises nutritionist, Rebecca Stevens in her article ‘Why is my postpartum body not bouncing back?’
“Try to remember that your recovery journey is a very personal and unique experience and while it can be easy to compare yourself to others on the same journey, try to avoid this.
Just think about all the different factors that influence your recovery e.g. size of your baby, position of your baby in the womb, the amount of weight gained in pregnancy, how well your baby does or doesn’t sleep, how much help you have at home, the number of children you have, the natural elasticity of the skin – this is down to genetics and not the cream you did or didn’t have time to rub on your expanding bump.”
“There is so much information and advice when it comes to returning to exercise after having a baby. The biggest and most obvious piece that I give to any mother, is to listen to your body,” says Nathalie Clough.
“All of the advice can be overwhelming, but you are so supported now more than ever, so if unsure don’t be afraid to reach out to a professional and have a little chat.”
Wherever you’re at - my personal advice would be to take it slow!
Travelling with Children? 21 Tips to make your Trip Easy and (Almost) Stress Free…
Travelling with children tends to split parents into two categories.Those who are super laid back, pretty optimistic and ready to take the rough with the smooth. And those who, even the mere thought of entering an airport with a toddler conjures up palpable levels of stress and trepidation about the logistics ahead - especially if you’ve never done it before.
Well the good news is - Family Spy Club has you covered. Alongside experts, we have the inside scoop on all things travel, to help take the hassle out of every stage of getting away with your family (As well as a handful of tried and tested, must have travel products to help you along the way!)
Before you go...
There are a few things you can prepare well in advance of your holiday. If you’re going somewhere with a pool (or even a body of water!) It's well worth investing in swimming lessons for your children.
Becky Adlington MBE and founder of Swim Baby explains “Swimming is a fundamental life skill at any age and all year round but certainly when booking holidays where there are swimming pools. A lot of holiday pools won’t have lifeguards or safety aids like armbands, so it is even more important to have lessons beforehand. Lessons will help your child not only with the right skills and technique but with confidence too. By taking lessons you are taught by experts who will guide your child in the right way. It's not just a skill for a holiday, it’s a skill for a lifetime!”
Sophia and Gemma of Toddlers, Teens and Between advise that if you’re travelling with different aged children, including teenagers, “Check out age appropriate entertainment for the whole family where you’re heading and get your teenagers involved in researching a fun thing to do all together ahead of time!”.
Around three weeks before you travel (or earlier!) write a list and get organised.
Making a list of what everyone in the family needs ahead of time is a good way to make sure you don’t forget anything and that you’re not digging around in the attic or washing clothes the night before you travel. Keep adding to the list as you think of things in the weeks before departure - and keep it somewhere safe for the next time you travel so you’re not starting again from scratch. Using the notes section on your phone with a bullet point tick list that you can duplicate is always a winner!
Packing - how to avoid taking the entire contents of the house…?
It’s a common mistake - overpacking. We all swear we’re going to ‘pack light’ but we like to reframe it as ‘packing smart’ which feels much more achievable as you know you’ll only be taking along what you need and avoiding any ‘What if’ items. Be as ruthless as possible!
Check the weather report before you go.
This might sound obvious, but checking the weather before you go should (!) allow you to pack more sensibly, bringing Summer clothes for warm weather and rain jackets for a drizzle. If you don't need it - don’t pack it! Depending on your destination, if the worst comes the worst you may be able to buy anything else you need when you get there if you’re caught out!
If you’re looking for some fantastic quality wet weather gear - Blade and Rose has a wonderful selection for children up to four years old. The designs are all colourful and fun - ideal for brightening up those puddle splashing days on holiday!
Are there laundry facilities at your destination?
Most self catering accommodation and Airbnbs have washing machines, which means you can take enough clothes for a couple of days and wash and re-wear clothes to cut down on suitcase space. If you don’t have this option, check out where the nearest public laundrette is and see if that’s a feasible option to use it whilst you’re there.
Invest in smart luggage.
You don’t want to be dragging around heavy, clunky bags, with precarious zips that inevitably fall apart on the bag carousel, depositing your belongings all over the airport. If you’ve got children in tow, go for something sturdy, easily manoeuvrable and lightweight.
For the grown ups, we absolutely love the Alyssa four wheel cabin carry on bag from Storksak. This versatile and stylish bag ticks all the boxes. Not only is it lightweight with spinner wheels, it comes complete with an incredibly smart internal organising system - meaning things like clothes, nappies, and accessories for your little ones are compartmentalised ready for an even smoother unpack when you arrive at your destination. The hanging organiser has a velcro strap so you can even pop it straight into the wardrobe. What’s even better is its cabin size - if you manage to pack smart, you can avoid time waiting for bags at your destination. Straight off the plane and go!
For your little ones - the trusty Trunki ticks all the boxes, Trunkis are ride along suitcases for children (makes trekking around the airport that little more fun!) and are surprisingly spacious inside. The Trunki comes in a fantastic range of designs and colourways - we loved the Lola the Llama! But there is even an option to design your own. All cases are made in the UK and are super durable, coming with a 5 year guarantee. Trunki’s range also includes some other fab travel essentials for car journeys. The BoostApak car seat is a cleverly designed car booster seat, which folds away into a backpack that can be carried by your child. This is a winner for holidays if you’re using hire cards, taxis or public transport but we have used it in restaurants when the seats are a little low!
Allow plenty of time…and more time…
Give yourself loads of extra time - and we mean LOADS. Allow extra time for the toilet, extra time for snacks, extra time for meltdowns, extra time for leaving something behind, extra time for slow walking… you get the message. By not rushing, you’ll be far less stressed and better equipped to deal with whatever the kids throw at you (literally).
Travel during nap times.
If possible, align long journeys with your little one’s nap time to give you the best chance of having some quiet time. However, this only really works if your child can nap on the go. If they can’t, and skipping a nap is likely to result in tears, do the opposite and try to travel when they’re well rested. One clever accessory which can help with comfortable naps on the go is the inflatable Koala Kloud foot rest. This dreamy product transforms that ‘gap’ between your plane, train or car seat into a cosy footrest, or allows little ones to have a lie down without awkward wriggling! We’d say this is a must have for a long flight. There are two options, one being adjustable (which we think is worth the additional investment!)
Dress everyone in comfortable clothes - and avoid laces.
Dressing kids in comfortable layers means that you can take things off and add things back on according to the changes in temperature. Avoiding shoes with laces also means kids can kick their shoes off easily and put them back on in a hurry - for example, when they need an urgent toilet trip. This will also help to get through airport security faster, if you need to take shoes off.
Pack medication in carry-on.
Don’t forget that if anyone in your family takes medication (either regular medication or an emergency epi-pen for example), you must pack this in your carry-on luggage or have it accessible during a long journey.
First aid kit...
Whilst we’re on that note - packing a small first aid kit in your carry on luggage or somewhere accessible in the car is a really good idea for when you need to respond to minor ailments and sickness in an emergency. Essentials to include are plasters, travel sickness bags, wipes, diarrhoea relief and something for upset tummies. Try to get things in a non-liquid form to avoid restrictions if you’re taking a flight, and pack just enough to see you through until you can get to a pharmacy.
Kate Ball, Founder of Mini First Aid says “A first aid emergency is hard enough in familiar territory, but throw a foreign language, lack of local knowledge and one drink too many into the mix and your ability to calmly address a situation can be severely compromised. It’s so important to appreciate that the outcome of any emergency is always going to be better if the medical response time is quicker. So what can you do on your holiday to access help quickly?
Know your numbers – in a medical emergency in Europe call 112; in the USA call 911
Research your resort / locality – it sounds really boring but you will never regret taking a few minutes out to find your local hospital / medical centre / pharmacy should you end up needing it – your hotel rep will be able to help you with this.
Get familiar with Google Translate – practise converting some simple phrases into over 100 different languages – it’s actually quite fun to do with the kids so get them to have a go too! Phrases such as “my child is not behaving in a way that is normal for them” can be especially useful when trying to explain to a doctor that strong, parental gut instinct that something just isn’t right.
Entertainment
Packing plenty of things to keep kids entertained is essential for long journeys. Early Years Development Consultant Danielle Manton-Kelly recommends “When travelling with children, collect small activities and wrap them individually like little birthday presents, before placing them in a hidden bag. Usually you won’t get to the end of the presents and wind up using the remainder of them throughout the trip instead. For those that want to storm through the presents quickly, set a timer for each activity. Bring things like mini pots of play dough, busy books, water colouring, small world boxes, pens, pads, stickers, mini board/travel games and of course SNACKS!”
Our 5 year old Tester tried out the wipeable silicone colouring mats from Moo & Dot. With a range of designs to choose from including ‘Around the World’ and ‘Animals at Risk’ (10% of sales for which are donated to wild animal charities) These educational and fun packs went down a storm - they scrunch up to travel size into a sweet little pouch with pens included. After your little one has finished colouring, they wipe clean and can be used again and again - plus they double up as food place mats! The back of the mats are blank so can also be used for practising writing, or playing games like noughts and crosses.
For when you’re at your destination - one of our much loved products for babies is the multi sensory Galt Play Ring. This is inflatable, so is light and easily transported. It folds up super small and once blown up, means you can contain and entertain your baby at the same time. This is ideal for those times when you want somewhere secure for them either in your room when you’re getting ready to go out, or even on the beach. The covers are all machine washable and it's suitable from birth.
Electronic devices.
They might not be every parent's favourite item, but electronic devices on a long journey can be a life saver. Make sure you pack headphones for every child and ensure the device is fully charged before setting off. If you won’t have access to the Internet, let your children know that they might not be able to access certain games and apps, or consider removing these from the homescreen to avoid impromptu meltdowns. Downloading their favourite programmes and movies is usually a winner.
Seat kids away from the plane aisle.
The aisle of a plane is often busy and can be dangerous too. Avoid little legs getting squashed by the food trolley and small hands reaching out to touch hot food and drinks by keeping them away from the aisle. It’ll be much easier to keep them contained this way too!
Stock up on plenty of snacks and water.
There’s not much worse than a hangry child! And hunger is likely to be an issue if they’re bored and have been sitting for long periods of time. Stock up on snacks that are filling and low in sugar to avoid sugar rushes and crashes mid way through your journey. Accommodate for delays too - if you have a baby and you formula feed, take more milk than you think you need just in case.
Take a travel buggy.
We can’t stress this one enough. Having to cart an enormous heavy buggy to the airport in a buggy bag and check it into oversize luggage, only to then tackle airport security struggling to keep hold of a toddler or carry a baby in your arms. Most airlines allow you to take a collapsible buggy onboard for free, and you can use the buggy right up until you board the plane. Plus, if you're hiring a car the other side, you're going to need a space-saving buggy that can fit in any boot.
We tried out the Ergobaby Metro+ stroller which is ideal for travel. Ergobaby are well known for their fantastic carriers so we were equally impressed with this high quality, sturdy buggy which is perfect for on the go. Unlike others on the market it felt incredibly solid and durable and was so easy to manoeuvre. Folded dimensions are 54cm x 44cm x 25cm which makes it ideal for overhead lockers in planes and on trains. It stands upright when folded and can be put up with one hand, which is great for when you’re juggling bags and children! The Metro+ Deluxe is also available as an upgraded option, with all the same features plus some luxury extras.
Consider alternative ways to get from A to B with your little ones when a buggy isn’t an option.
If you’re travelling somewhere more remote or rural where you’ll be less likely to be able to use your buggy - for example cobbled streets, taking hikes, or going over more undulated terrain, depending on the age of your child, it's worth investing in a baby carrier for tinies, or a toddler hiking backpack.
Family owned, Swedish brand Babybjorn is one of the most trusted brands when it comes to babywearing; and this year BabyBjorn are celebrating 50 years of closeness in carrying. The BabyBjorn Harmony is one of our favourites for versatility and comfort. It’s easy to put on, very supportive and accommodates for newborn upwards, with your baby facing inwards or outwards as well as an option to carry them on your back.
If they are a little older, the Sapling toddler hiking backpack from Thule is a real frontrunner. Thule is another Scandianvian brand that prides itself on quality and it really does look and feel premium. Your child is supported under their bottom and underneath their legs which distributes their weight well and offers maximum comfort. The pack itself weighs a mere 3.2kg and can carry children up to 18kg. It comes fitted with a few clever features - including a ventilated back panel, a sun shade for your little one which tucks away and storage space underneath the pack for easy to access snacks and drinks to pass upwards! You can also buy add on accessories such as a sling backpack for more storage and a rain cover so you don’t get caught out in a downpour!
We LOVE THIS toddler carrier from Thule - we use it daily for dog walks as well as on weekends away. 10/10 from us!
You’ve arrived at your destination! Now, how do you get the kids to sleep?
Talk to young kids about the changes coming up and if you can, make their sleep space familiar. If you’re taking a travel cot with you, let them see the bed at home and try it out before you go. If possible, take sheets and a small pillow that smells familiar to help ease the transition at bedtime.
If you haven’t come across them before - the Bundle Bed was created by founder Lucy Bartlett to provide a familiar sleep space – safe, secure and snug – for wherever kids’ adventures take them. If you are travelling with children, you can bundle your Bundle Beds onto the plane for free in its own handy travel bag. We’ve checked with the main flight providers* including EasyJet, Jet2, Ryan Air and Bundle Beds are included within the free items you are allowed to check-in for children up to the age of 15, so you can check them in for free. *Do always make sure you check directly with your airline too as allowances can change!
Keep to a similar bedtime routine.
Sleep Consultant Sophie Wilkinson says “When it comes to children and taking holidays the good news is that you do not have to cancel all travel plans and confine yourself to the house for the rest of your child’s life! It is possible to have children who travel really well, if you keep a few things in mind:
Try not to over-schedule the day.
If your child has a good bedtime routine then keep this routine whilst away. This will help your child feel safe and secure in a new environment and will help them fall asleep.
If your child sleeps in their own room when at home but will be sharing a room whilst on holiday, then my advice is to try to make some sort of a private space for your baby to sleep. You can build some sort of a partition between you and your baby, so that they are close but if they wake up in the middle of the night they don't immediately see you and think its play time at 3am! Of course, getting an extra bedroom for your child is great if that’s an option for you.
Well-rested children handle jet lag much better than sleep-deprived adults. If your baby has had a great schedule leading up to the trip, they should slide into the new time zone without too much trouble. It is best to adjust to the new time zone as quickly as you can or if the time zone isn’t too different to your timezone eg 1hr ahead you might want to keep a later schedule to better suit your plans eg 8pm bedtime instead of 7pm which will still feel like 7pm to your child.
If bath time forms part of your usual bedtime routine, consider taking some fun, new bath toys for them to play with. We absolutely love this Scrunch bath bundle from Scrunch kids: made of silicone - they literally do scrunch up so can be packed easily. These are also suitable for using on the beach or by the pool for pouring and splashing water!
Keep the room dark.
“Light is the biggest disrupter of sleep for adults and little ones,” says Chris McFadden, the Daddy Sleep Consultant. “Whenever I work with clients I always recommend blackout blinds for all rooms tots sleep in. Travel blackout blinds are reasonably cost efficient and can be all you need to keep little ones asleep until morning.”
White noise.
Travel white noise machines, (check out Glow Dreaming) or a white noise playlist downloaded onto your phone can be very handy when you’re on the go, either for pram naps when you’re out and about or to block out background noise in a busy hotel or apartment building. “Having white noise on is good for 2 main reasons: it will help to ensure that when they are drifting in and out of light sleep, they will recognise the same sound they had heard when they initially went down and hopefully drift back into another sleep cycle,” says sleep consultant, Olivia Mulcahy. “And white noise also helps to act as a barrier for all those noises you can’t control such as mobile phones ringing, dogs barking, door knocking and noisy siblings.”
Accept the rough nights with the smooth.
Long flights are almost certainly going to result in some sort of jet lag or sleep disruption for young kids (and adults). Despite all your best efforts, you still might find that your little ones are wide awake and demanding cereal at 3am on the first few nights. Accepting that this is just the nature of the beast will stop you stressing about what you should or could have done. Try to look on the bright side - it might mean an early night instead!
Finally, try and set some time aside for yourself (if you can!)
A holiday isn’t a holiday if you constantly feel stressed and ‘on duty.’ If you’re travelling with a partner or family member, try and share the childcare and plan ahead so you can make time for yourself. Whether this be booking in a treatment at the hotel spa or arranging some time for your children in the hotel kids club so you can sit by the pool in peace.
Anna Croucher, Occupational Therapist and Mindfulness Coach says “When we are travelling with a little one it can naturally feel quite challenging, our minds have what's called a "Negative Bias" and will naturally go to the worst-case scenario, thinking about all the things that could go wrong. My 'go to' strategy when I feel overwhelmed in tricky situations is to put my hand on my heart. As simple as this seems, it produces the hormone oxytocin and communicates to your body and mind 'you are safe', regardless of what's happening around you. And when we feel safe, our little ones feel safe, due to the mirror neurons between us, so they will start to calm down naturally. Self care in the moment isn't selfish, it's an essential act!”
If your own time looks a bit more like just having a bath alone, while the kids are in bed - still try and make the most of it and make it special! Wilder botanics have a gorgeous range of products in travel size, including their 100ml bath oils. Vetiver Juniper & Petit Grain is perfect for aching bones and aiding relaxation after a long journey. Palmarosa, Frankincense & Sweet Orange is for exhaustion and lifting the spirits. They also have some lovely Body Oils for Summer ready skin, as well as our travel essential - First Help Flower essence for emergency emotional needs, great for when you’re having to stay calm with upset babies on the plane or in the car!
Overall - have a wonderful trip and remember - these are memories being made forever for you and your family!
The Power of Open-Ended, Imaginative Play: Zonky Play Sofa - Tried and Tested
“Imagination is more important than knowledge”
We are living in an era of tech, screens and an abundance of specialist toys, where structured and often screen-based activities are ever-present. My daughter has always had a wild imagination and creativity for which I’m so grateful - but I’ve often wondered how best to nurture it. She has spent the past few years absolutely annihilating our family sofa and making the cushions into dens, teddy picnics, forts, beds and everything in between. This comes with a few small challenges - firstly I’m usually instructed not to take down the den she's built come the end of the day (which means I have nowhere to sit in the evening) plus when she's playing, there isn’t a huge amount of versatility in the large and heavy cushions, carrying them across the room often results in her wiping out every picture on the wall and ornament propped on the sideboard.
I recently came across the amazing play sofas from Zonky and was keen to test one on behalf of other den-ridden parents…
What is Open-Ended Imaginative Play?
Open-ended imaginative play is a form of play where there are no specific rules, scripts, or predetermined outcomes. Instead, children are encouraged to use their creativity and imagination to explore, experiment, and create their own worlds and scenarios. This type of play fosters cognitive, emotional, and social development in children while allowing them to have fun and express themselves freely.
The Versatility of the Play Sofa
The Zonky play sofa is a versatile piece of furniture that can serve as a catalyst for open-ended imaginative play. It has a super sleek, simple design and soft cushions making it an ideal platform for both active and relaxing play - and when combined with a child's imagination, the possibilities are endless. Here's why a play sofa could be the perfect addition to your child's playroom:
1. Comfort and Safety
The Zonky has great quality, high density shock absorbing foam so is designed with safety and comfort in mind. The cushions on both the indoor and outdoor couches are super soft and padded which reduces the risk of injury during playing. They are also incredibly light - meaning the smallest of children can lift and manoeuvre them, which was a huge plus point for us.
2. Encourages Cooperative Play
Playing on a play sofa can foster cooperative play among siblings and friends. I’ve seen my two daughters working together to build their dens (despite the 5 year age gap) and it’s equally been a hit when classmates come over. Children can collaborate to build structures, create stories, or invent games, promoting teamwork and communication skills.
3. Sparks Creativity
The blank canvas of the Zonky encourages children to use their imagination. Whether they're pretending it's a pirate ship, a rocket, or a castle, children can invent countless scenarios and stories. I love the different shapes available - the rectangular arm rests, triangular backrests and round buttons can be made into almost anything. Because they are so lightweight, these can be easily stacked giving height or depth.
4. Enhances Problem-Solving Skills
Building dens and structures involves problem-solving. Children must figure out how to balance cushions, arrange blankets, and design their spaces, which enhances their critical thinking abilities. I’ve seen a huge amount of learning going on since we’ve had one, especially around how heavy blankets are and learning about different materials, as well as the best ways to use the shaped cushions. It’s certainly sparked conversations!
5. Develops Fine and Gross Motor Skills
Climbing, arranging cushions, and draping blankets all require physical coordination and motor skills. Open-ended imaginative play on a play sofa helps children develop both fine and gross motor skills.
Early Years Teacher and Parent Coach Katie Jackson says "Open-ended play helps children develop critical thinking skills, creativity, confidence and imagination, whilst allowing time to process their learning. Eventually children put these skills into practice in different environments, instinctively experimenting more and creating meaningful connections. Ultimately playful learning occurs with open-ended toys. These encourage children to take greater risks, without any fears or pressure, enabling them to build their confidence and problem solve whilst learning from their mistakes. And all through the subtlety and pure joy of playing, in a world that is safe, secure and makes sense to them.
The Magic of Building Dens
Dens provide children with a safe and private space where they can retreat when they need a break or some alone time. This sense of autonomy is essential for their emotional development. As much as my child loves spending time with her friends, watching her cosy up with a book or game under her Zonky den has been so calming and given her some space away from her baby sister.
It has also provided a lovely opportunity for me to connect with her on her level. It’s almost a safe space that she's created herself, allowing her to process emotions and cope with various situations with our support.
Open-ended imaginative play, especially when centered around a play couch and the creation of dens, is a valuable tool for fostering creativity, problem-solving skills, emotional intelligence, and social development in children. It allows them to explore the limitless boundaries of their imagination, develop important life skills, and most importantly, have fun in the process.
The Zonky - Our Takeaways
We road tested both the indoor and outdoor Zonky sofas - the indoor material is incredibly smart and durable - the vegan suede covers integrate really beautifully with interiors so don’t feel at all gaudy or jarring which many kids products do (we opted for the dark green ‘Kale’ colour). The covers are also removable and machine washable which is perfect for when snacks are involved!
The outdoor Zonky version fared just as well if not better as they are wipeable. We tried the bright yellow version - which was fantastic in the garden and with the mixed weather going into autumn I was concerned about moisture, but they stayed dry inside even on dewy grass. One massive benefit of the Zonky is that the covers are interchangeable - so if you’d like to change up the colour of your sofa you can, but crucially, you can buy a set of outdoor covers without having to buy a whole new sofa, meaning your indoor version can be transformed.
It doesn’t advertise itself as a bed, but we actually used one of the Zonky bases as a mattress for one of my daughter's friends who came over, so a hidden bonus if you ever need an extra sleeping arrangement!
Thinking about space?
The Zonky dimensions are 136cm long, with a seat depth of 68cm and height 50cm. It has been a very inoffensive size, mainly because it’s so stylish but also because it stacks and stores away neatly and easily. The reality is (if you’re anything like me) you spend a fair bit of time down low with your children (read; on the floor) and this was a great height to do that with them. I was initially worried it would be another enormous piece of kit but it’s integrated very well into the play area and is light enough to move into different rooms if needed. My older daughter (6) prefers it to the higher couch and for my younger daughter (14 months) it's an ideal, safe height for her to climb up and down.
The play sofa set comes with six sections including 1 x foldable base, 1 x foldable base support, 2 x triangular pillows, 2 x cuboid pillows and 1 x machine-washable outer cover. The round buttons can be purchased as extras - at just £34.99 these are well worth it.
If you're looking to inspire your child's creativity and provide them with hours of joyful play, definitely consider incorporating a play couch into their playroom. This would make a fab birthday or Christmas gift with hours of entertainment guaranteed!
