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Ask an expert

# NetMums

Baby

## 'Your baby could be born not breathing' – What it’s really like to go into premature labour

Charlie Bond shares her experience of having a premature baby on World Prematurity Day 2025

Child

## 'Why I'm raising all 3 of my daughters to be show offs'

Netmums writer and mum of three Alison Perry was raised to think being a show off was bad, but as she explains, that's not necessarily the case

Christmas

## This one part of Christmas that's already tipping mums over the edge – and it's only November

Mum of three and Netmums writer Alison Perry explains why well-meaning requests from family members at this time of year add to the mental load

Child

## 'Harassed' parents are missing out on the 'magic years' because of this ONE common reason

Parents are missing out because they’re exhausted, stretched and juggling too much, an early years expert has warned in a powerful session with MPs.

Child

## 'I paid someone else to teach my child how to ride her bike... and it was was worth every penny'

Mum of three and Netmums writer Alison Perry says she knows it might be viewed as extravagant but she has no regrets

Child

## 'It's the most stressful part' – 13 hiding spots for Christmas presents, as shared by parents (and it's not the loft)

We asked parents where they're hiding the Christmas presents this year, and boy did they deliver – pun intended.

Advertisement Promotion with Scottish Friendly

Child

## Why should you open a Junior ISA today?

It’s easy to set up, it will give your child a great head start into adulthood and once you start investing they will receive an extra £50 into their Junior ISA.

Child

## 'Apologies aren't magic': Why psychologist's stark warning on children saying sorry hits parents hard

Dr Martha's post on children and apologies is striking a nerve with parents...

Child

## Is it normal that my child will only eat beige food? Here's what a paediatric dietician wants you to know

In this episode of 'Is It Normal...?', fussy eater expert Emma Shafqat reveals why some children will only eat beige food – and what parents can do

Baby

## Baby reflux vs wind: How to tell the difference (and when to call your GP)

It’s hard to know what’s normal when your newborn cries after feeds. We break down the key differences between reflux and trapped wind.

- Baby names by origin

## This 'unique' Irish baby boy name meaning 'sea' was given to only 5 boys in 2024

The rare Irish baby name Lir was given to just five boys in 2024. Meaning 'sea', it's rooted in Irish mythology and ranked 582nd on naming charts.
- Advertisement Promotion with Alpro

Product Trial Reviews

## Why parents love Alpro Kids Chocolate and Strawberry flavour drinks

Plant-based and perfectly child sized with 30% less sugar\*, find out why our testers loved these tasty drinks.
- Home & Garden

## Beneath the leaves, a silent tragedy: how autumn gardening puts hedgehogs at risk

Autumn has a way of softening our gardens. Leaves fall, colours deepen, and the whole landscape seems to exhale. But beneath those rustling piles of gold and bronze, a hidden life is unfolding — one that many of us never notice. For hedgehogs, these heaps of leaves are not garden waste. They are shelter, warmth and survival. And each year, a single thoughtless gesture turns these safe havens into deadly traps.
- Netmums podcasts

## 'I just couldn't and that's life' – Sian Welby's regrets over only taking 3 months maternity leave

The Capital Breakfast presenter talks honestly about life as a freelancer on the latest episode of The Netmums Podcast

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## Most active chat

Expert advice Topics Popular

Baby and Child Health

### 'baby cries in car & pram'

Unhealthy Relationships

### 'I don't understand my boyfriend'

domestic abuse

### 'Please don't judge me'

Maternal Mental Health

### 'Pregnancy anxiety'

Baby and Child Health

### 'I don't feel the love for my baby'

Maternal Mental Health

### 'Depressed for no reason'

### Infertility

### Family and other relationships

### Pregnancy

### Birth Stories

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Benefits and Entitlements

### Maternity Allowance and SHPP

Aldi savvy savers

### Do you think this would help to keep your kids outside?

AIBU

### Ex letting son down

For dads

### Books for a second child

Family Food and Recipes

### What xmas food can I make ahead of time?

TV & Film

### Anyone love Uncanny?

Join the chat

## Pregnancy

Pregnancy

## Can you dye your hair while pregnant? Experts explain what's safe and what's not

Two professional stylists explain how to safely colour your hair during pregnancy, and the hair dyes to avoid.

Pregnancy

## The 'unique' Irish baby boy name meaning 'little deer' that's about to go extinct – only 5 parents chose the name in 2024

Discover why the rare Irish name Daimhín is disappearing, and why it might be the perfect unique choice for your baby.

Pregnancy

## This 'beautiful' Irish baby girl name meaning 'brightness' that's very little used in the UK

Sorcha is an Irish baby name meaning 'brightness' or 'shining'. Learn more about this rare beautiful Gaelic name with deep cultural roots.

Pregnancy

## 'I directly told her – to her face – to never kiss my baby' – Mum shares fury after MIL kisses her newborn

Should you allow family members to kiss your newborn baby? One mum was upset when this happened and the Lullaby Trust's advice suggests she was right to ask for no kisses

Pregnancy

## Scientists think they've found the actual reason women get morning sickness

Researchers from UCLA believe nausea and vomiting in pregnancy might be an evolutionary adaptation to protect both the mother and baby.

See more

## Baby

Baby

## How to bond with your baby: expert advice from a health visitor

Worried about bonding with your baby? Netmums’ resident health visitor Tracey Stone shares what bonding really looks like, and the small everyday things that can help you and your baby feel closer.

Baby

## 'Your baby is talking to you from day one' – expert reveals what your newborn is really trying to tell you

Parenting expert Tanith Carey reveals your baby is born ready to connect – and from day one they're already trying to tell you exactly what they need

Baby

## 'Forget being stressed, this is the one baby item that helped me juggle two under the age of two'

Netmums' Boudicca tested out the Little Green Sheep Moses basket to see how it could ease her into life as a mum of two...

Advertisement Promotion with Fisher-Price

Baby

## Why parents love the Fisher Price Laugh & Learn™ Smart Stages™ Puppy

Meet your child’s new favourite toy – a soft, snuggly puppy that helps them learn (and laugh!) as they play

Baby

## When to start brushing your baby's teeth (and how to do it right, according to a health visitor)

Netmums’ health visitor Tracey Stone shares her expert advice on brushing your baby’s teeth, choosing the right toothbrush and toothpaste, and keeping your little one's smile healthy from day one

See more

## Preschool

Preschool

## 'Thousands of children are stuck' – parents at breaking point 'forced to pay' for ADHD assessments

Parents are urged to ask for clarity and written information to understand the diagnosing system better

Preschool

## Shay Mitchell launches face masks for three-year-olds – and parents are NOT happy

The new Rini sheet masks for kids are about fun and bonding, but experts warn they could send the wrong message about beauty and childhood.

Preschool

## This £19.99 Aldi creation station keeps kids busy for hours – and doubles as a table

The Multiple Licensed Creation Station from Aldi combines creative play with practical furniture at £19.99. Suitable for ages 3+, it's the Christmas gift that keeps children entertained for hours.

Advertisement Promotion with Fisher-Price

Preschool

## Say goodbye to forgotten gifts: these are the best toys every under-5 will actually play with this Christmas

Looking for fun, educational Christmas gifts for babies, toddlers or preschoolers? You’re in the right place.

Preschool

## Is your child refusing to eat? Top psychologist shares 5 things you should never say to a fussy eater

Have mealtimes turned into a battleground? Leading clinical psychologist Dr Martha Deiros Collado reveals what to say and what NOT to say if your child is a fussy eater.

See more

## Primary

Primary

## This bestselling LEGO set is Amazon’s top Christmas toy for 2025

Amazon's named a 3-in-1 LEGO Creator set as one of its top 10 Christmas toys for 2025... and it's currently on offer.

Primary

## Parents from across the UK prepare to protest against term-time holiday fines – join the rally

After the government refused to change the law around taking time off during the school term, campaign group Fight School Fines is calling on parents to attend their rally

Primary

## 'The magic of Christmas has been ruined' – Parents fuming after teacher's Santa bombshell

A teacher told pupils Santa wasn't real and parents are up in arms...

Advertisement Promotion with Hampton Court Ice Rink

Primary

## We’ve found the coolest day out with the kids this winter – and it’s perfect for all ages

Hampton Court Palace Ice Rink is the ultimate festive family adventure

Primary

## This remote-control Monster Jam truck is tipped to be one of the hottest toys for Christmas 2025 – and it's currently reduced to £35 on Amazon

DreamToys' list of the official hottest 15 toys for Christmas 2025 has been revealed... and we think this Monster Jam remote control car will appeal to most children on your list (and parents, too).

See more

## Secondary

Secondary

## 'Why is my teenager always tired?' – a sleep expert explains what’s really going on in their body, and how to help them

From sleeping in late to struggling with school mornings, teen sleep habits are a minefield. We asked sleep expert Amy Cheseldine, founder of The Good Sleep Method, to answer the one question all parents ask: 'How much sleep does my teenager need?'

Secondary

## 'My child never takes a drink in because of this' – Parents anger at school over 'unfair' toilet decision

The school says other toilets remain open throughout the day...

Secondary

## Full list of all UK closed schools as Storm Claudia surges on – with 'do not travel' warnings issued

Stormy weather can bring logistical nightmares with it for parents

Secondary

## Strict 16-point new school uniform rules announced – with schools 'named and shamed' if they fail to comply

New NI uniform rules promise cheaper, simpler schoolwear with fewer branded items and more support for families – and the changes could shape policies across the UK.

Secondary

## 'School food can make or break a student’s day' – Major step forward as Keir Starmer vows to transform school nutrition

'School food is now a priority of the highest order.'

See more

## Home & Garden

Home & Garden

## These 'innocent' plants claim thousands of victims every year

They sit quietly in our gardens, admired for their flowers, colours or sculptural leaves. Yet behind this gentle façade, some of the most familiar garden plants hide dangers far more serious than we imagine. Before letting children roam among the borders or picking a handful of leaves for a recipe, it’s worth knowing which plants are harmless — and which are anything but.

Home & Garden

## Say goodbye to string lights, M&S £45 outdoor lights create a stunning Christmas tree effect that will enchant your garden

The M&S Outdoor Cascade Tree brings modern Christmas charm to your garden at £45. With warm white LEDs cascading from a central pole, it creates a minimalist tree effect without any pine needles to hoover.

Home & Garden

## Primark’s £10 festive bath mat is a ‘bathroom must-have’ this holiday season

A cosy, Christmas Bath Mat that adds warmth, comfort, and practicality to chaotic family bathrooms during the holiday season.

Home & Garden

## IKEA has just come out with an extendable table just in time for the holidays that is 'excellent value for money'

The IKEA TONSTAD Extendable table combines classic design with practical Christmas hosting at £279. With a 4.9-star rating and self-storing leaf, it extends from four to six seats effortlessly.

Home & Garden

## Say goodbye to mistletoe, Lidl is selling a 'Christmas cactus' that will bloom just in time for the holidays

Lidl's Christmas Cactus will bloom beautifully just in time for the festive season. An easy-care houseplant that adds colour to your home.

See more

## Cost of living

Cost of living

## Pizza Hut UK to close 68 restaurants after dine-in arm collapses into administration

Family favourite Pizza Hut is to close more than half of its UK restaurants after UK franchisee DC London Pie Limited calls in administrators. But US parent company Yum! Brands saves an additional 64 with a last-minute rescue deal.

Cost of living

## Kids eat FREE (or for £1) this October half term – check out the full list of 30 places including Pizza Hut, Bill's, Burger King and more

Feed the family for less this half term with these wallet-friendly restaurant deals.

Cost of living

## ‘There are children who are hungry’: calls for action as thousands of kids miss out on free school meals

Why so many children in England are still going hungry despite being entitled to free school meals

Cost of living

## Martin Lewis urges everyone with a phone to text 5-digit code to slash bills

The money expert’s four-step mobile plan starts with a free text and can knock serious money off your monthly bill if you’re out of contract.

Cost of living

## Low-income families can soon apply for supermarket vouchers up to £300 – to spend in Aldi, Tesco and Asda

From November, some families could be eligible for supermarket voucher support worth up to £300 through the Household Support Fund.

See more

## Popular

Best buys

## Teaching your child to cycle this summer? This is the perfect bike to learn on

Netmums' Charlie Bond tested the Woom Go 2 to find out why this bike is such a popular option for parents of kids learning to cycle...

Best buys

## The double buggy that's 'perfect for grandparents to use' this summer

Looking for a double buggy? We found one that's super compact and perfect for family holidays and days out. It's even a hit with the grandparents!

Shopping

## Forget jeans – these are the trousers all fashionistas will be wearing this autumn – guaranteed!

Suede trousers with vintage charm could well replace jeans this fall. An easy piece to wear no matter what your style

## Hot buys

### Say goodbye to wrinkles, Aldi's bestselling moisturiser is back and it contains real gold
See more

### Every family needs these walking boots – waterproof, comfy and perfect for winter walks
See more

### 'Run to Primark for this co-ord' – fans are obsessing over these brown corduroy-finish jeans and matching boob tube for £38
See more

### Next £58 are the ultimate winter essential that will take you from school run to night out in no time
See more

### 1 tub of filler, 1 IKEA shelf… and TikTok is obsessed ! Your Kallax has never looked this stylish
See more

### Primark £20 coat makes any outfit look put-together – and looks considerably more expensive
See more

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## Pregnancy week by week

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## Tools

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## Parenting life

### Cost of Living

- How to get Christmas dinner for 6 people for under £30
- The 1 benefit that's safe from DWP bank account checks
- Universal credit boost for millions: see how much your benefits will rise by

### Pregnancy

- 'I'm a baby naming expert – these are the top baby naming trends we will see in 2025'
- Your ultimate pregnancy checklist
- Yellow discharge in pregnancy: what it means and when to get help

### Life

- MILLIONS of families missing out thousands in Universal Credit, Child Benefit and free school meals
- 'I pay more than £500 a month in top-up fees to access 'free' childcare hours'
- Government promises to 'open 300 new nurseries in the next 12 months' to help with demand for free childcare places

### What's on near you

- The ultimate ‘fright night’ for your teenager this Halloween
- 9 of the best last-minute bargains for babies and toddlers in the sales
- The best supermarket Halloween costumes for kids from £9 to buy online NOW

### Trying for a baby

- High cost of fertility treatment in UK forcing many to seek treatment abroad
- Stop vaping if you want to get pregnant, says new study
- How much should I save before having a baby?

### Child

- Five key concerns parents have about school – revealed in biggest annual parent survey
- 'The cover is all cutesy but the content isn’t' – Mum's warning over 'explicit' tween-favourite book Icebreaker
- I’m a nanny – this is the one simple mistake lots of parents are making with their children

## Most searched topics

Best banks for kids Baby names 2025 Nivea school uniform Kids eat free Playgroups near you Aldi perfume dupes Things to do with teenagers Does a faint line on a Clearblue test mean I'm pregnant? What is the household fond? Single parent benefits Top 1000 baby boy names Skull theory Kids party food ideas

## Episodes

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