WikiMum - User contributions [en-gb]

Sarahob

2013-10-07T22:07:58Z

Sarahob: Created page with "===Our Experience=== Arghhhhhhh! Does that sum it up? The "Terrible Two's", the moment our little angels turn into little monsters ===When Did It Start=== Well it wa..."

===Our Experience===

Arghhhhhhh! Does that sum it up?

The "Terrible Two's", the moment our little angels turn into little monsters

===When Did It Start===

Well it wasn't on his second birthday, no we were lulled into a false sense of security with our little boy going months before his first tantrum.

Rather smugly we were hearing friends experiences of how their gorgeous children had turned into head twirling, leg kicking monsters whilst our little boy remained as passive as ever.

Then one day, it happened, something wasn't to his liking and cue the scream! Now where did that come from - someone make it stop!

===Trigger Points===

For our little boy tiredness and frustration are the culprits, if he misses his nap or gets over tired something so simple like picking up one of his precious toys when he doesn't want you to can result in a scream.

He isn't talking yet (that's for discussion on another Wikimum section) but that we feel is also a big part of him getting frustrated at wanting something and neither of us understanding what it is he wants or needs.

===Getting Off Lightly===

We only have short sharp scream and usually that is it, temper tantrums for some parents are much worse with full on kicking, screaming, head banging and so on, we are hoping Daniels tantrums don't escalate any more than they are at the moment, we also have been really lucky with just one "public" tantrum when you just feel everyone is staring at you, shaking their heads at terrible parenting.

===How We Deal With It===

Well, there's the million dollar question, how do you deal with tantrums? I'm sure every parent asks this and I don't know the correct answer. We tend to take each tantrum separately, we tend to ignore most screams and carry on but occasionally when they have escalated to full on tears and upset one of us has given him a cuddle and within a few moments its over.

===Help===

Here's a link to the NHS website with some helpful advice [[http://www.nhs.uk/conditions/pregnancy-and-baby/pages/temper-tantrums.aspx#close NHS website]]

--[[User:Sarahob|Sarahob]] ([[User talk:Sarahob|talk]]) [[File:Sarahob.jpg|64px|link=User:Sarahob|Sarahob]] 22:07, 7 October 2013 (UTC)

Temper Tantrums

2013-10-07T21:45:13Z

Sarahob: Created page with "Sarahob"

[[Sarahob]]

Sarah's Experience

2013-10-07T21:43:11Z

Sarahob:

==My Experience==

I suffered morning sickness with my first pregnancy, I don't remember it particularly vividly except that it wasn't pleasant and resulted in a couple of weeks off work

Roll on a couple of years and Wham! morning sickness hits again around the 7 week mark, my goodness how could I have forgotten how horrendous it was/is, obviously just blocked from my mind!

Despite being told "its a good sign - its a strong pregnancy" when you have your head stuck down a toilet for most of the day or you are permanently thinking you need to have your head down the

toilet - its of little comfort!

===All Day Sickness===

One of the reasons I "pee'd on a stick" was because I had a rather sickly feeling, once I had the positive result the sickness really hit after another couple of weeks, as lot of mummies to be

find, it wasn't just in the morning, it was constant, making everyday life very difficult.

With my first baby it was so much easier to deal with, I could just crawl into bed and wallow with my other half looking after himself. This time with a two year old wanting mummy to play it

wasn't so easy!

From spending time just retching in the toilet with my son knocking on the door shouting for "mummy" to trying to make him meals, it really made it hard to cope with.

I lost so much weight, okay so there is some positivity, and after a week off work went to the GP to seek a doctors note and was prescribed some anti-sickness tablets. I took them under

sufferance, obviously worrying about how they would affect the baby despite being assured there was no danger.

Another week on and I couldn't keep water down let alone any food, it was just awful and when I went back to the doctor and had another check over he admitted me to hospital. To be truthful I was

quite relieved, I was feeling so desperately poorly that I just wanted something to be done.

After being admitted, urine sample was taken, canula fitted (which wasn't easy due to the dehydration), a couple of injections and tablets later and then collapse into bed with a fluid drip, 24

hours later having managed tea and toast, then a sandwich for lunch and I was well enough to go home with strict instructions to force small amounts of food and water down even if I felt sick.

After another week at home, still feeling nauseous but thankfully not being sick I was well enough to go back to work.

Now at 13 weeks I have odd moments of feeling a little sick but that is all, it is common for MS to ease as you reach 12 week mark although some ladies can suffer throughout their pregnancy.

===Remedies===

There are plenty of "help" sites on the internet offering all sorts of ideas and hints to try and keep the sickness at bay including ;

Eating small meals or snacks regularly, eating plain foods such as mashed potato, boiled rice

Eating ginger biscuits or drinking ginger tea

Avoiding strong smells

The list goes on and on and I guess you have to try and find whatever suits you best

--[[User:Sarahob|Sarahob]] ([[User talk:Sarahob|talk]]) [[File:Sarahob.jpg|64px|link=User:Sarahob|Sarahob]] 21:43, 7 October 2013 (UTC)

Sarah's Experience

2013-10-07T21:41:51Z

Sarahob:

Sarah's Experience

2013-10-07T21:37:43Z

Sarahob:

==My Experience==

I suffered morning sickness with my first pregnancy, I don't remember it particularly vividly except that it wasn't pleasant and resulted in a couple of weeks off work

Roll on a couple of years and Wham! morning sickness hits again around the 7 week mark, my goodness how could I have forgotten how horrendous it was/is, obviously just blocked from my mind!

===All Day Sickness===

One of the reasons I "pee'd on a stick" was because I had a rather sickly feeling, once I had the positive result the sickness really hit after another couple of weeks, as lot of mummies to be

find, it wasn't just in the morning, it was constant, making everyday life very difficult.

With my first baby it was so much easier to deal with, I could just crawl into bed and wallow with my other half looking after himself. This time with a two year old wanting mummy to play it

wasn't so easy!

From spending time just retching in the toilet with my son knocking on the door shouting for "mummy" to trying to make him meals, it really made it hard to cope with.

I lost so much weight, okay so there is some positivity, and after a week off work went to the GP to seek a doctors note and was prescribed some anti-sickness tablets. I took them under

sufferance, obviously worrying about how they would affect the baby despite being assured there was no danger.

Another week on and I couldn't keep water down let alone any food, it was just awful and when I went back to the doctor and had another check over he admitted me to hospital. To be truthful I was

quite relieved, I was feeling so desperately poorly that I just wanted something to be done.

After being admitted, urine sample was taken, canula fitted (which wasn't easy due to the dehydration), a couple of injections and tablets later and then collapse into bed with a fluid drip, 24

hours later having managed tea and toast, then a sandwich for lunch and I was well enough to go home with strict instructions to force small amounts of food and water down even if I felt sick.

After another week at home, still feeling nauseous but thankfully not being sick I was well enough to go back to work.

Now at 13 weeks I have odd moments of feeling a little sick but that is all, it is common for MS to ease as you reach 12 week mark although some ladies can suffer throughout their pregnancy.

===Remedies===

There are plenty of "help" sites on the internet offering all sorts of ideas and hints to try and keep the sickness at bay including ;

Eating small meals or snacks regularly, eating plain foods such as mashed potato, boiled rice

Eating ginger biscuits or drinking ginger tea

Avoiding strong smells

The list goes on and on and I guess you have to try and find whatever suits you best

Sarah's Experience

2013-10-07T21:36:10Z

Sarahob: Created page with "==My Experience== I suffered morning sickness with my first pregnancy, I don't remember it particularly vividly except that it wasn't pleasant and resulted in a couple of wee..."

==My Experience==

I suffered morning sickness with my first pregnancy, I don't remember it particularly vividly except that it wasn't pleasant and resulted in a couple of weeks off work

Roll on a couple of years and Wham! morning sickness hits again around the 7 week mark, my goodness how could I have forgotten how horrendous it was/is, obviously just blocked from my mind!

===All Day Sickness===

One of the reasons I "pee'd on a stick" was because I had a rather sickly feeling, once I had the positive result the sickness really hit after another couple of weeks, as lot of mummies to be find, it wasn't just in the morning, it was constant, making everyday life very difficult.

With my first baby it was so much easier to deal with, I could just crawl into bed and wallow with my other half looking after himself. This time with a two year old wanting mummy to play it wasn't so easy!

From spending time just retching in the toilet with my son knocking on the door shouting for "mummy" to trying to make him meals, it really made it hard to cope with.

I lost so much weight, okay so there is some positivity, and after a week off work went to the GP to seek a doctors note and was prescribed some anti-sickness tablets. I took them under sufferance, obviously worrying about how they would affect the baby despite being assured there was no danger.

Another week on and I couldn't keep water down let alone any food, it was just awful and when I went back to the doctor and had another check over he admitted me to hospital. To be truthful I was quite relieved, I was feeling so desperately poorly that I just wanted something to be done.

After being admitted, urine sample was taken, canula fitted (which wasn't easy due to the dehydration), a couple of injections and tablets later and then collapse into bed with a fluid drip, 24 hours later having managed tea and toast, then a sandwich for lunch and I was well enough to go home with strict instructions to force small amounts of food and water down even if I felt sick.

After another week at home, still feeling nauseous but thankfully not being sick I was well enough to go back to work.

Now at 13 weeks I have odd moments of feeling a little sick but that is all, it is common for MS to ease as you reach 12 week mark although some ladies can suffer throughout their pregnancy.

===Remedies===

There are plenty of "help" sites on the internet offering all sorts of ideas and hints to try and keep the sickness at bay including ;

Eating small meals or snacks regularly, eating plain foods such as mashed potato, boiled rice

Eating ginger biscuits or drinking ginger tea

Avoiding strong smells

The list goes on and on and I guess you have to try and find whatever suits you best

Experiences

2013-10-07T21:10:55Z

Sarahob:

[[Sarahob's Experience]]

[[Sarah's Experience]]

Experiences

2013-10-07T21:10:21Z

Sarahob:

[[Sarahob's Experience]]

[[Sarahob's Experience]]

Old MacDonalds Farm, Padstow, Cornwall

2013-07-07T15:14:52Z

Sarahob:

==Where Is It==

Near Porthcothan Bay, between Padstow and Newquay in Cornwall

===Whats There===

Set within the confines of a large field there are numerous activities and animals to keep young children entertained.
The usual farm animals such as pigs, geese, goats, cows, sheep and ponies along with a few rabbits and guinea pigs in the petting area.

There is plenty of games to burn off energy, including train rides and go-carts (two seat go-carts are fab to take the little children on), mini-golf, a couple of trampolines, sandpits, ride on trikes/tractors and a climbing frame.

===Food===

A small cafe offers a selection of hot and cold food and drinks along with ice-cream for those hot, sunny days.
Seating area both inside and out for food purchased at the cafe and benches outside for those wanting to have their own picnic.

===Price===

At the time of our visit - June 2013
£6.00 for adults & children over 2 years old
£4.00 for concessions/senior citizens
Under 2's play for free
(You can go back within 7 days for half price entry)

===Our Experience===

We went during our holidays to Cornwall, we happened to come across the farm on a day trip to the beach and went the next day. First impression when we went through to the field, was that it was a small area for a farm and we would only be there for an hour or so... How wrong we were...

Yes, its within a large field but there is so much to do that it easily fills a day, our little boy Daniel had such fun and loved the go-carts most of all, there are a couple of two seat carts which are ideal for little ones to have a chauffeur driven ride.

Lots of animals surround the play area and you can buy bags of food to feed the sheep and goats... Watch out for the geese though, one had a peck at Daniel which was a bit of a shock for him... The petting area with rabbits and guinea pigs was also nice for hands on contact with hand washing facilities close by.

I would say be careful with the "diggers" in the sandpit, they are metal and little ones could easily get fingers trapped in the the mechanics...

Inside, there is a playhouse, kitchen area, toys and books for little ones to have a play should the "British" weather turn and you need to shelter in doors for a short while.

All in all a really good day out, I have put a link to the web site for you to have a look at [[http://www.oldmacdonalds.co.uk/farm_park.htm]] Old MacDonals Farm

WIP

Old MacDonalds Farm, Padstow, Cornwall

2013-07-07T15:13:48Z

Sarahob:

==Where Is It==

Near Porthcothan Bay, between Padstow and Newquay in Cornwall

===Whats There===

Set within the confines of a large field there are numerous activities and animals to keep young children entertained.
The usual farm animals such as pigs, geese, goats, cows, sheep and ponies along with a few rabbits and guinea pigs in the petting area.
There is plenty of games to burn off energy, including train rides and go-carts (two seat go-carts are fab to take the little children on), mini-golf, a couple of trampolines, sandpits, ride on trikes/tractors and a climbing frame.

===Food===

A small cafe offers a selection of hot and cold food and drinks along with ice-cream for those hot, sunny days.
Seating area both inside and out for food purchased at the cafe and benches outside for those wanting to have their own picnic.

===Price===

At the time of our visit - June 2013
£6.00 for adults & children over 2 years old
£4.00 for concessions/senior citizens
Under 2's play for free
(You can go back within 7 days for half price entry)

===Our Experience===

We went during our holidays to Cornwall, we happened to come across the farm on a day trip to the beach and went the next day. First impression when we went through to the field, was that it was a small area for a farm and we would only be there for an hour or so... How wrong we were...

Yes, its within a large field but there is so much to do that it easily fills a day, our little boy Daniel had such fun and loved the go-carts most of all, there are a couple of two seat carts which are ideal for little ones to have a chauffeur driven ride.

Lots of animals surround the play area and you can buy bags of food to feed the sheep and goats... Watch out for the geese though, one had a peck at Daniel which was a bit of a shock for him... The petting area with rabbits and guinea pigs was also nice for hands on contact with hand washing facilities close by.

I would say be careful with the "diggers" in the sandpit, they are metal and little ones could easily get fingers trapped in the the mechanics...

Inside, there is a playhouse, kitchen area, toys and books for little ones to have a play should the "British" weather turn and you need to shelter in doors for a short while.

All in all a really good day out, I have put a link to the web site for you to have a look at http://www.oldmacdonalds.co.uk/farm_park.htm Old MacDonals Farm

WIP

Old MacDonalds Farm, Padstow, Cornwall

2013-07-07T14:56:19Z

Sarahob:

Old MacDonalds Farm, Padstow, Cornwall

2013-07-07T14:50:44Z

Sarahob: Created page with "==Where Is It== Near Porthcothan Bay, between Padstow and Newquay in Cornwall ===Whats There=== Set within the confines of a large field there are numerous activities and ..."

Places to Visit with children

2013-07-07T14:43:58Z

Sarahob:

* [[Peppa Pig World]]
* [[Flamingo Land]]
* [[Hopefield Animal Sanctuary]]
* [[Dinosaur Adventure]]
* [[Chester Zoo]]
* [[Edinburgh Zoo]]
* [[National Space Centre]]
* [[Greenacres Animal Park - Hawarden, North Wales]]
* [[Coco's Play Barn, Frodsham, Cheshire]]
* [[Old MacDonalds Farm, Padstow, Cornwall]]

Greenacres Animal Park - Hawarden, North Wales

2013-06-22T15:13:23Z

Sarahob:

==Where Is It?==

A little village called "Hawarden" in North Wales, about 30 minutes by car from the City of Chester...

===Whats There===

This is a small park farm with various animals, as the name suggests its mainly farm animals horses, cows, sheep, pigs, ducks with the odd monkey to see.
There is a tractor ride which is very popular with the children and gives a tour of the outer fields for more animals - look out for the "bear" that is hiding in the trees.
There is an indoor play barn for children, with little scooters and ride ons as well - there is a segregated section for the younger children with a little ball pool to enjoy.
An outdoor play area with swings and slides and other equipment.
A selection of fairground rides are also on site.

===Food===
There is a covered seating area for anyone wanting to take a picnic and also a cafe if you prefer that option, the play barn has a little food and drinks counter to enjoy whilst the children play

===Camping & Caravan Site===

Within the grounds, there is a small caravan and camping area with electric hook up and a washing up area, the standard price per pitch at the time of writing this review is £26.00 with a charge of £3.00 if you want electric hook up (The price included entry into the park)

==Price==

The cost of entry into the park for adults is £7.00 and for children (between 2 - 16) its £6.00, under 2's go free. There are season tickets available

==My review==

We went with a group of friends, we had between us four two year old children.

Despite it being June our typically British weather meant we went on a day where there was a mix of rain showers and sun. The park was virtually empty except for a school party so we could get very close to the enclosures to see the animals which is great when you have toddlers.

[[File:IMAG2458 - Copy.jpg|300px|right]]

We enjoyed the "petting area" where the children got to hold/stroke and feed a few animals such as ducklings, lambs, rabbits, guinea pigs and an eagle owl, they seemed to enjoy this part a lot and we got some lovely photographs.

[[File:IMAG2492.jpg|300px|left]]

The enclosures for the animals seemed a little small for some of the animals but it seems that when they mature they are moved out to the larger fields and the smaller enclosures are just for the younger animals.

Disappointingly the fairground rides, tractor rides and pony rides weren't being run because it was "low season" and the outside swings/slides were wet from the rain so also not in use. When they are operating the tractor rides, pony rides, play barn and fun fair rides are all charged at an additional £1.00

[[File:IMAG2474.jpg|300px|left]]

We all had lunch in the cafe which has a few hot meals and the usual sandwiches and jacket potatoes. There is a childrens menu although everything was served with chips and beans! When we ordered there weren't any beans and no alternative such as peas was available - still charging the full meal price though :(

The park has new management this year and they are in the process of making changes so it will be interesting to see what developments are made, the place does need some tlc. Our children at 2 years old were happy enough though especially when we went into the play barn.

I think the price for children needs to be looked at, £6.00 for two year old is a little steep, especially when half the facilities are not available. Maybe the play barn should be included in the price rather than a separate charge, especially in the wet weather we had.

The cafe could do with a make over and a healthy option for the childrens menu - even a choice of mashed potato rather than just chips would be welcomed.

Having said this, we would venture back as the children seemed to enjoy themselves.

Here's a link to the website [[ http://www.greenacresanimalpark.co.uk/]]

--[[User:Sarahob|Sarahob]] ([[User talk:Sarahob|talk]]) [[File:Sarahob.jpg|64px|link=User:Sarahob|Sarahob]] 15:13, 22 June 2013 (UTC)

Coco's Play Barn, Frodsham, Cheshire

2013-06-22T15:12:51Z

Sarahob:

== Where Is It? ==

About 14 miles from Chester, just off the M56 not far from Delamere Forest

=== What's There? ===

This is a playbarn set over four floors with two integral slides, there is a separate section for the younger children for the busier periods. In addition, there is an indoor football area with a netball goal for kids to have a kick around or just run around to let off steam...

The site where the playbarn is situated is with in the "Lady Heyes Craft Centre" so plenty of little shops to have a look round once children have worn themselves out playing.

There is also a caravan and camping site just behind the play barn.

=== Food ===

There is a limited menu available, for £2.00 you can order a childrens lunch which consists of a sandwich, packet of crisps, and then 4 snack items such as carrots, grapes, apple, cheese chunks, cheddars, breadsticks

Drinks are charged at separate cost

If you want to have an arranged party there's an area sectioned off for children to have party food

An outdoor decking area with plenty of seats and tables which is fully enclosed and allows for al fresco dining on those sunny days

=== Cost ===

At the time of this review (June 2013) the cost per child is £3.80, with a height restriction of 4ft 6inches

=== Our experience ===

I have a two year old boy and went with friends and their children of the same age on a Thursday morning during term time, there were a couple of other children there at the same time but it was really quiet and so all the children had plenty of space to enjoy the play barn without the worry of older children charging around and knocking them over!

The football area was an added bonus, maybe a few more balls would be an idea, there were only four balls at the time of our visit so no where near enough to go round.

The place seemed very clean and the food was certainly enjoyed by the children an for £2.00 really well priced.

I would certainly go back again, although I am sure, as with most play barns, if its a weekend or during school holidays then it would be very busy and may be not as enjoyable.

We didn't get chance to look round the craft shops, so I am sure we'll be visiting again very soon.

I've put the website address for the craft centre and for the play barn so take a look...

[[http://www.ladyheyes.co.uk/units/business.php?ref=171300106596 Lady Heyes]]
[[http://www.cocosplaybarn.com/playbarn.php Coco's Play Barn]]

--[[User:Sarahob|Sarahob]] ([[User talk:Sarahob|talk]]) [[File:Sarahob.jpg|64px|link=User:Sarahob|Sarahob]] 15:11, 22 June 2013 (UTC)

WIP - photo's to be added

Coco's Play Barn, Frodsham, Cheshire

2013-06-22T15:12:02Z

Sarahob:

Coco's Play Barn, Frodsham, Cheshire

2013-06-22T15:11:43Z

Sarahob:

Coco's Play Barn, Frodsham, Cheshire

2013-06-22T15:11:02Z

Sarahob:

Coco's Play Barn, Frodsham, Cheshire

2013-06-22T15:10:45Z

Sarahob:

== Where Is It? ==

About 14 miles from Chester, just off the M56 not far from Delamere Forest

=== What's There? ===

This is a playbarn set over four floors with two integral slides, there is a separate section for the younger children for the busier periods. In addition, there is an indoor football area with a netball goal for kids to have a kick around or just run around to let off steam...

The site where the playbarn is situated is with in the "Lady Heyes Craft Centre" so plenty of little shops to have a look round once children have worn themselves out playing.

There is also a caravan and camping site just behind the play barn.

=== Food ===

There is a limited menu available, for £2.00 you can order a childrens lunch which consists of a sandwich, packet of crisps, and then 4 snack items such as carrots, grapes, apple, cheese chunks, cheddars, breadsticks

Drinks are charged at separate cost

If you want to have an arranged party there's an area sectioned off for children to have party food

An outdoor decking area with plenty of seats and tables which is fully enclosed and allows for al fresco dining on those sunny days

=== Cost ===

At the time of this review (June 2013) the cost per child is £3.80, with a height restriction of 4ft 6inches

=== Our experience ===

I have a two year old boy and went with friends and their children of the same age on a Thursday morning during term time, there were a couple of other children there at the same time but it was really quiet and so all the children had plenty of space to enjoy the play barn without the worry of older children charging around and knocking them over!

The football area was an added bonus, maybe a few more balls would be an idea, there were only four balls at the time of our visit so no where near enough to go round.

The place seemed very clean and the food was certainly enjoyed by the children an for £2.00 really well priced.

I would certainly go back again, although I am sure, as with most play barns, if its a weekend or during school holidays then it would be very busy and may be not as enjoyable.

We didn't get chance to look round the craft shops, so I am sure we'll be visiting again very soon.

I've put the website address for the craft centre and for the play barn so take a look...
[[http://www.ladyheyes.co.uk/units/business.php?ref=171300106596 Lady Heyes]]
[[http://www.cocosplaybarn.com/playbarn.php Coco's Play Barn]]

WIP

Coco's Play Barn, Frodsham, Cheshire

2013-06-22T15:09:31Z

Sarahob: Created page with "== Where Is It? == About 14 miles from Chester, just off the M56 not far from Delamere Forest === What's There? === This is a playbarn set over four floors with two integr..."

Places to Visit with children

2013-06-22T14:48:30Z

Sarahob:

Greenacres Animal Park - Hawarden, North Wales

2013-06-17T22:42:09Z

Sarahob:

==Where Is It?==

A little village called "Hawarden" in North Wales, about 30 minutes by car from the City of Chester...

===Whats There===

This is a small park farm with various animals, as the name suggests its mainly farm animals horses, cows, sheep, pigs, ducks with the odd monkey to see.
There is a tractor ride which is very popular with the children and gives a tour of the outer fields for more animals - look out for the "bear" that is hiding in the trees.
There is an indoor play barn for children, with little scooters and ride ons as well - there is a segregated section for the younger children with a little ball pool to enjoy.
An outdoor play area with swings and slides and other equipment.
A selection of fairground rides are also on site.

===Food===
There is a covered seating area for anyone wanting to take a picnic and also a cafe if you prefer that option, the play barn has a little food and drinks counter to enjoy whilst the children play

===Camping & Caravan Site===

Within the grounds, there is a small caravan and camping area with electric hook up and a washing up area, the standard price per pitch at the time of writing this review is £26.00 with a charge of £3.00 if you want electric hook up (The price included entry into the park)

==Price==

The cost of entry into the park for adults is £7.00 and for children (between 2 - 16) its £6.00, under 2's go free. There are season tickets available

==My review==

We went with a group of friends, we had between us four two year old children.

Despite it being June our typically British weather meant we went on a day where there was a mix of rain showers and sun. The park was virtually empty except for a school party so we could get very close to the enclosures to see the animals which is great when you have toddlers.

[[File:IMAG2458 - Copy.jpg|300px|right]]

We enjoyed the "petting area" where the children got to hold/stroke and feed a few animals such as ducklings, lambs, rabbits, guinea pigs and an eagle owl, they seemed to enjoy this part a lot and we got some lovely photographs.

[[File:IMAG2492.jpg|300px|left]]

The enclosures for the animals seemed a little small for some of the animals but it seems that when they mature they are moved out to the larger fields and the smaller enclosures are just for the younger animals.

Disappointingly the fairground rides, tractor rides and pony rides weren't being run because it was "low season" and the outside swings/slides were wet from the rain so also not in use. When they are operating the tractor rides, pony rides, play barn and fun fair rides are all charged at an additional £1.00

[[File:IMAG2474.jpg|300px|left]]

We all had lunch in the cafe which has a few hot meals and the usual sandwiches and jacket potatoes. There is a childrens menu although everything was served with chips and beans! When we ordered there weren't any beans and no alternative such as peas was available - still charging the full meal price though :(

The park has new management this year and they are in the process of making changes so it will be interesting to see what developments are made, the place does need some tlc. Our children at 2 years old were happy enough though especially when we went into the play barn.

I think the price for children needs to be looked at, £6.00 for two year old is a little steep, especially when half the facilities are not available. Maybe the play barn should be included in the price rather than a separate charge, especially in the wet weather we had.

The cafe could do with a make over and a healthy option for the childrens menu - even a choice of mashed potato rather than just chips would be welcomed.

Having said this, we would venture back as the children seemed to enjoy themselves.

Here's a link to the website [[ http://www.greenacresanimalpark.co.uk/]]

[[File:Sarahob.jpg|64px|link=User:Sarahob|Sarahob]]

Greenacres Animal Park - Hawarden, North Wales

2013-06-17T22:41:29Z

Sarahob:

==Where Is It?==

A little village called "Hawarden" in North Wales, about 30 minutes by car from the City of Chester...

===Whats There===

This is a small park farm with various animals, as the name suggests its mainly farm animals horses, cows, sheep, pigs, ducks with the odd monkey to see.
There is a tractor ride which is very popular with the children and gives a tour of the outer fields for more animals - look out for the "bear" that is hiding in the trees.
There is an indoor play barn for children, with little scooters and ride ons as well - there is a segregated section for the younger children with a little ball pool to enjoy.
An outdoor play area with swings and slides and other equipment.
A selection of fairground rides are also on site.

===Food===
There is a covered seating area for anyone wanting to take a picnic and also a cafe if you prefer that option, the play barn has a little food and drinks counter to enjoy whilst the children play

===Camping & Caravan Site===

Within the grounds, there is a small caravan and camping area with electric hook up and a washing up area, the standard price per pitch at the time of writing this review is £26.00 with a charge of £3.00 if you want electric hook up (The price included entry into the park)

==Price==

The cost of entry into the park for adults is £7.00 and for children (between 2 - 16) its £6.00, under 2's go free. There are season tickets available

==My review==

We went with a group of friends, we had between us four two year old children.

Despite it being June our typically British weather meant we went on a day where there was a mix of rain showers and sun. The park was virtually empty except for a school party so we could get very close to the enclosures to see the animals which is great when you have toddlers.

[[File:IMAG2458 - Copy.jpg|300px|right]]

We enjoyed the "petting area" where the children got to hold/stroke and feed a few animals such as ducklings, lambs, rabbits, guinea pigs and an eagle owl, they seemed to enjoy this part a lot and we got some lovely photographs.

[[File:IMAG2492.jpg|300px|left]]

The enclosures for the animals seemed a little small for some of the animals but it seems that when they mature they are moved out to the larger fields and the smaller enclosures are just for the younger animals.

Disappointingly the fairground rides, tractor rides and pony rides weren't being run because it was "low season" and the outside swings/slides were wet from the rain so also not in use. When they are operating the tractor rides, pony rides, play barn and fun fair rides are all charged at an additional £1.00

[[File:IMAG2474.jpg|300px|left]]

We all had lunch in the cafe which has a few hot meals and the usual sandwiches and jacket potatoes. There is a childrens menu although everything was served with chips and beans! When we ordered there weren't any beans and no alternative such as peas was available - still charging the full meal price though :(

The park has new management this year and they are in the process of making changes so it will be interesting to see what developments are made, the place does need some tlc. Our children at 2 years old were happy enough though especially when we went into the play barn.

I think the price for children needs to be looked at, £6.00 for two year old is a little steep, especially when half the facilities are not available. Maybe the play barn should be included in the price rather than a separate charge, especially in the wet weather we had.

The cafe could do with a make over and a healthy option for the childrens menu - even a choice of mashed potato rather than just chips would be welcomed.

Having said this, we would venture back as the children seemed to enjoy themselves.

Here's a link to the website [[ http://www.greenacresanimalpark.co.uk/ Greenacres website]]

[[File:Sarahob.jpg|64px|link=User:Sarahob|Sarahob]]

Greenacres Animal Park - Hawarden, North Wales

2013-06-17T22:40:00Z

Sarahob:

Greenacres Animal Park - Hawarden, North Wales

2013-06-17T22:38:51Z

Sarahob:

Greenacres Animal Park - Hawarden, North Wales

2013-06-17T22:34:46Z

Sarahob:

Greenacres Animal Park - Hawarden, North Wales

2013-06-17T22:09:12Z

Sarahob:

==Where Is It?==

A little village called "Hawarden" in North Wales, about 30 minutes by car from the City of Chester...

===Whats There===

This is a small park farm with various animals, as the name suggests its mainly farm animals horses, cows, sheep, pigs, ducks with the odd monkey to see.
There is a tractor ride which is very popular with the children and gives a tour of the outer fields for more animals - look out for the "bear" that is hiding in the trees.
There is an indoor play barn for children, with little scooters and ride ons as well - there is a segregated section for the younger children with a little ball pool to enjoy.
An outdoor play area with swings and slides and other equipment.
A selection of fairground rides are also on site.

===Food===
There is a covered seating area for anyone wanting to take a picnic and also a cafe if you prefer that option, the play barn has a little food and drinks counter to enjoy whilst the children play

===Camping & Caravan Site===

Within the grounds, there is a small caravan and camping area with electric hook up and a washing up area, the standard price per pitch at the time of writing this review is £26.00 with a charge of £3.00 if you want electric hook up (The price included entry into the park)

==Price==

The cost of entry into the park for adults is £7.00 and for children (between 2 - 16) its £6.00, under 2's go free. There are season tickets available

==My review==

We went with a group of friends, we had between us four two year old children.

Despite it being June our typically British weather meant we went on a day where there was a mix of rain showers and sun. The park was virtually empty except for a school party so we could get very close to the enclosures to see the animals which is great when you have toddlers.

We enjoyed the "petting area" where the children got to hold/stroke and feed a few animals such as ducklings, lambs, rabbits, guinea pigs and an eagle owl, they seemed to enjoy this part a lot and we got some lovely photographs.

[[File:IMAG2458 - Copy.jpg|200px|center]]

The enclosures for the animals seemed a little small for some of the animals but it seems that when they mature they are moved out to the larger fields and the smaller enclosures are just for the younger animals.

[[File:IMAG2492.jpg|200px]]

Disappointingly the fairground rides, tractor rides and pony rides weren't being run because it was "low season" and the outside swings/slides were wet from the rain so also not in use. When they are operating the tractor rides, pony rides, play barn and fun fair rides are all charged at an additional £1.00

We all had lunch in the cafe which has a few hot meals and the usual sandwiches and jacket potatoes. There is a childrens menu although everything was served with chips and beans! When we ordered there weren't any beans and no alternative such as peas was available - still charging the full meal price though :(

[[File:IMAG2474.jpg|200px|right]]

The park has new management this year and they are in the process of making changes so it will be interesting to see what developments are made, the place does need some tlc. Our children at 2 years old were happy enough though especially when we went into the play barn.

I think the price for children needs to be looked at, £6.00 for two year old is a little steep, especially when half the facilities are not available. Maybe the play barn should be included in the price rather than a separate charge, especially in the wet weather we had.

The cafe could do with a make over and a healthy option for the childrens menu - even a choice of mashed potato rather than just chips would be welcomed.

Having said this, we would venture back as the children seemed to enjoy themselves.

Here's a link to the website [[ http://www.greenacresanimalpark.co.uk/ Greenacres website]]

WIP

Greenacres Animal Park - Hawarden, North Wales

2013-06-17T22:08:30Z

Sarahob:

==Where Is It?==

A little village called "Hawarden" in North Wales, about 30 minutes by car from the City of Chester...

===Whats There===

This is a small park farm with various animals, as the name suggests its mainly farm animals horses, cows, sheep, pigs, ducks with the odd monkey to see.
There is a tractor ride which is very popular with the children and gives a tour of the outer fields for more animals - look out for the "bear" that is hiding in the trees.
There is an indoor play barn for children, with little scooters and ride ons as well - there is a segregated section for the younger children with a little ball pool to enjoy.
An outdoor play area with swings and slides and other equipment.
A selection of fairground rides are also on site.

===Food===
There is a covered seating area for anyone wanting to take a picnic and also a cafe if you prefer that option, the play barn has a little food and drinks counter to enjoy whilst the children play

===Camping & Caravan Site===

Within the grounds, there is a small caravan and camping area with electric hook up and a washing up area, the standard price per pitch at the time of writing this review is £26.00 with a charge of £3.00 if you want electric hook up (The price included entry into the park)

==Price==

The cost of entry into the park for adults is £7.00 and for children (between 2 - 16) its £6.00, under 2's go free. There are season tickets available

==My review==

We went with a group of friends, we had between us four two year old children.

Despite it being June our typically British weather meant we went on a day where there was a mix of rain showers and sun. The park was virtually empty except for a school party so we could get very close to the enclosures to see the animals which is great when you have toddlers.

We enjoyed the "petting area" where the children got to hold/stroke and feed a few animals such as ducklings, lambs, rabbits, guinea pigs and an eagle owl, they seemed to enjoy this part a lot and we got some lovely photographs.

[[File:IMAG2458 - Copy.jpg|200px]]

The enclosures for the animals seemed a little small for some of the animals but it seems that when they mature they are moved out to the larger fields and the smaller enclosures are just for the younger animals.

[[File:IMAG2492.jpg|200px]]

Disappointingly the fairground rides, tractor rides and pony rides weren't being run because it was "low season" and the outside swings/slides were wet from the rain so also not in use. When they are operating the tractor rides, pony rides, play barn and fun fair rides are all charged at an additional £1.00

We all had lunch in the cafe which has a few hot meals and the usual sandwiches and jacket potatoes. There is a childrens menu although everything was served with chips and beans! When we ordered there weren't any beans and no alternative such as peas was available - still charging the full meal price though :(

[[File:IMAG2474.jpg|200px]]

The park has new management this year and they are in the process of making changes so it will be interesting to see what developments are made, the place does need some tlc. Our children at 2 years old were happy enough though especially when we went into the play barn.

I think the price for children needs to be looked at, £6.00 for two year old is a little steep, especially when half the facilities are not available. Maybe the play barn should be included in the price rather than a separate charge, especially in the wet weather we had.

The cafe could do with a make over and a healthy option for the childrens menu - even a choice of mashed potato rather than just chips would be welcomed.

Having said this, we would venture back as the children seemed to enjoy themselves.

Here's a link to the website [[ http://www.greenacresanimalpark.co.uk/ Greenacres website]]

WIP

File:IMAG2474.jpg

2013-06-17T22:07:44Z

Sarahob:

Greenacres Animal Park - Hawarden, North Wales

2013-06-17T22:06:08Z

Sarahob:

==Where Is It?==

A little village called "Hawarden" in North Wales, about 30 minutes by car from the City of Chester...

===Whats There===

This is a small park farm with various animals, as the name suggests its mainly farm animals horses, cows, sheep, pigs, ducks with the odd monkey to see.
There is a tractor ride which is very popular with the children and gives a tour of the outer fields for more animals - look out for the "bear" that is hiding in the trees.
There is an indoor play barn for children, with little scooters and ride ons as well - there is a segregated section for the younger children with a little ball pool to enjoy.
An outdoor play area with swings and slides and other equipment.
A selection of fairground rides are also on site.

===Food===
There is a covered seating area for anyone wanting to take a picnic and also a cafe if you prefer that option, the play barn has a little food and drinks counter to enjoy whilst the children play

===Camping & Caravan Site===

Within the grounds, there is a small caravan and camping area with electric hook up and a washing up area, the standard price per pitch at the time of writing this review is £26.00 with a charge of £3.00 if you want electric hook up (The price included entry into the park)

==Price==

The cost of entry into the park for adults is £7.00 and for children (between 2 - 16) its £6.00, under 2's go free. There are season tickets available

==My review==

We went with a group of friends, we had between us four two year old children.

Despite it being June our typically British weather meant we went on a day where there was a mix of rain showers and sun. The park was virtually empty except for a school party so we could get very close to the enclosures to see the animals which is great when you have toddlers.

We enjoyed the "petting area" where the children got to hold/stroke and feed a few animals such as ducklings, lambs, rabbits, guinea pigs and an eagle owl, they seemed to enjoy this part a lot and we got some lovely photographs.

[[File:IMAG2458 - Copy.jpg|200px]]

The enclosures for the animals seemed a little small for some of the animals but it seems that when they mature they are moved out to the larger fields and the smaller enclosures are just for the younger animals.

[[File:IMAG2492.jpg|200px]]

Disappointingly the fairground rides, tractor rides and pony rides weren't being run because it was "low season" and the outside swings/slides were wet from the rain so also not in use. When they are operating the tractor rides, pony rides, play barn and fun fair rides are all charged at an additional £1.00

We all had lunch in the cafe which has a few hot meals and the usual sandwiches and jacket potatoes. There is a childrens menu although everything was served with chips and beans! When we ordered there weren't any beans and no alternative such as peas was available - still charging the full meal price though :(

The park has new management this year and they are in the process of making changes so it will be interesting to see what developments are made, the place does need some tlc. Our children at 2 years old were happy enough though especially when we went into the play barn.

I think the price for children needs to be looked at, £6.00 for two year old is a little steep, especially when half the facilities are not available. Maybe the play barn should be included in the price rather than a separate charge, especially in the wet weather we had.

The cafe could do with a make over and a healthy option for the childrens menu - even a choice of mashed potato rather than just chips would be welcomed.

Having said this, we would venture back as the children seemed to enjoy themselves.

Here's a link to the website [[ http://www.greenacresanimalpark.co.uk/ Greenacres website]]

WIP

File:IMAG2458 - Copy.jpg

2013-06-17T22:05:15Z

Sarahob:

Greenacres Animal Park - Hawarden, North Wales

2013-06-17T22:04:07Z

Sarahob:

==Where Is It?==

A little village called "Hawarden" in North Wales, about 30 minutes by car from the City of Chester...

===Whats There===

This is a small park farm with various animals, as the name suggests its mainly farm animals horses, cows, sheep, pigs, ducks with the odd monkey to see.
There is a tractor ride which is very popular with the children and gives a tour of the outer fields for more animals - look out for the "bear" that is hiding in the trees.
There is an indoor play barn for children, with little scooters and ride ons as well - there is a segregated section for the younger children with a little ball pool to enjoy.
An outdoor play area with swings and slides and other equipment.
A selection of fairground rides are also on site.

===Food===
There is a covered seating area for anyone wanting to take a picnic and also a cafe if you prefer that option, the play barn has a little food and drinks counter to enjoy whilst the children play

===Camping & Caravan Site===

Within the grounds, there is a small caravan and camping area with electric hook up and a washing up area, the standard price per pitch at the time of writing this review is £26.00 with a charge of £3.00 if you want electric hook up (The price included entry into the park)

==Price==

The cost of entry into the park for adults is £7.00 and for children (between 2 - 16) its £6.00, under 2's go free. There are season tickets available

==My review==

We went with a group of friends, we had between us four two year old children.

Despite it being June our typically British weather meant we went on a day where there was a mix of rain showers and sun. The park was virtually empty except for a school party so we could get very close to the enclosures to see the animals which is great when you have toddlers.

We enjoyed the "petting area" where the children got to hold/stroke and feed a few animals such as ducklings, lambs, rabbits, guinea pigs and an eagle owl, they seemed to enjoy this part a lot and we got some lovely photographs.

The enclosures for the animals seemed a little small for some of the animals but it seems that when they mature they are moved out to the larger fields and the smaller enclosures are just for the younger animals.

[[File:IMAG2492.jpg|200px]]

Disappointingly the fairground rides, tractor rides and pony rides weren't being run because it was "low season" and the outside swings/slides were wet from the rain so also not in use. When they are operating the tractor rides, pony rides, play barn and fun fair rides are all charged at an additional £1.00

We all had lunch in the cafe which has a few hot meals and the usual sandwiches and jacket potatoes. There is a childrens menu although everything was served with chips and beans! When we ordered there weren't any beans and no alternative such as peas was available - still charging the full meal price though :(

The park has new management this year and they are in the process of making changes so it will be interesting to see what developments are made, the place does need some tlc. Our children at 2 years old were happy enough though especially when we went into the play barn.

I think the price for children needs to be looked at, £6.00 for two year old is a little steep, especially when half the facilities are not available. Maybe the play barn should be included in the price rather than a separate charge, especially in the wet weather we had.

The cafe could do with a make over and a healthy option for the childrens menu - even a choice of mashed potato rather than just chips would be welcomed.

Having said this, we would venture back as the children seemed to enjoy themselves.

Here's a link to the website [[ http://www.greenacresanimalpark.co.uk/ Greenacres website]]

WIP

File:IMAG2492.jpg

2013-06-17T22:02:57Z

Sarahob:

Greenacres Animal Park - Hawarden, North Wales

2013-06-17T21:42:39Z

Sarahob:

==Where Is It?==

A little village called "Hawarden" in North Wales, about 30 minutes by car from the City of Chester...

===Whats There===

This is a small park farm with various animals, as the name suggests its mainly farm animals horses, cows, sheep, pigs, ducks with the odd monkey to see.
There is a tractor ride which is very popular with the children and gives a tour of the outer fields for more animals - look out for the "bear" that is hiding in the trees.
There is an indoor play barn for children, with little scooters and ride ons as well - there is a segregated section for the younger children with a little ball pool to enjoy.
An outdoor play area with swings and slides and other equipment.
A selection of fairground rides are also on site.

===Food===
There is a covered seating area for anyone wanting to take a picnic and also a cafe if you prefer that option, the play barn has a little food and drinks counter to enjoy whilst the children play

===Camping & Caravan Site===

Within the grounds, there is a small caravan and camping area with electric hook up and a washing up area, the standard price per pitch at the time of writing this review is £26.00 with a charge of £3.00 if you want electric hook up (The price included entry into the park)

==Price==

The cost of entry into the park for adults is £7.00 and for children (between 2 - 16) its £6.00, under 2's go free. There are season tickets available

==My review==

We went with a group of friends, we had between us four two year old children.

Despite it being June our typically British weather meant we went on a day where there was a mix of rain showers and sun. The park was virtually empty except for a school party so we could get very close to the enclosures to see the animals which is great when you have toddlers.

We enjoyed the "petting area" where the children got to hold/stroke and feed a few animals such as ducklings, lambs, rabbits, guinea pigs and an eagle owl, they seemed to enjoy this part a lot and we got some lovely photographs.

The enclosures for the animals seemed a little small for some of the animals but it seems that when they mature they are moved out to the larger fields and the smaller enclosures are just for the younger animals.

Disappointingly the fairground rides, tractor rides and pony rides weren't being run because it was "low season" and the outside swings/slides were wet from the rain so also not in use. When they are operating the tractor rides, pony rides, play barn and fun fair rides are all charged at an additional £1.00

We all had lunch in the cafe which has a few hot meals and the usual sandwiches and jacket potatoes. There is a childrens menu although everything was served with chips and beans! When we ordered there weren't any beans and no alternative such as peas was available - still charging the full meal price though :(

The park has new management this year and they are in the process of making changes so it will be interesting to see what developments are made, the place does need some tlc. Our children at 2 years old were happy enough though especially when we went into the play barn.

I think the price for children needs to be looked at, £6.00 for two year old is a little steep, especially when half the facilities are not available. Maybe the play barn should be included in the price rather than a separate charge, especially in the wet weather we had.

The cafe could do with a make over and a healthy option for the childrens menu - even a choice of mashed potato rather than just chips would be welcomed.

Having said this, we would venture back as the children seemed to enjoy themselves.

Here's a link to the website [[ http://www.greenacresanimalpark.co.uk/ Greenacres website]]

WIP

Greenacres Animal Park - Hawarden, North Wales

2013-06-17T21:42:26Z

Sarahob: Created page with "==Where Is It?== A little village called "Hawarden" in North Wales, about 30 minutes by car from the City of Chester... ===Whats There=== This is a small park farm with var..."

==Where Is It?==

A little village called "Hawarden" in North Wales, about 30 minutes by car from the City of Chester...

===Whats There===

This is a small park farm with various animals, as the name suggests its mainly farm animals horses, cows, sheep, pigs, ducks with the odd monkey to see.
There is a tractor ride which is very popular with the children and gives a tour of the outer fields for more animals - look out for the "bear" that is hiding in the trees.
There is an indoor play barn for children, with little scooters and ride ons as well - there is a segregated section for the younger children with a little ball pool to enjoy.
An outdoor play area with swings and slides and other equipment.
A selection of fairground rides are also on site.

===Food===
There is a covered seating area for anyone wanting to take a picnic and also a cafe if you prefer that option, the play barn has a little food and drinks counter to enjoy whilst the children play

===Camping & Caravan Site===

Within the grounds, there is a small caravan and camping area with electric hook up and a washing up area, the standard price per pitch at the time of writing this review is £26.00 with a charge of £3.00 if you want electric hook up (The price included entry into the park)

==Price==

The cost of entry into the park for adults is £7.00 and for children (between 2 - 16) its £6.00, under 2's go free. There are season tickets available

==My review==

We went with a group of friends, we had between us four two year old children.

Despite it being June our typically British weather meant we went on a day where there was a mix of rain showers and sun. The park was virtually empty except for a school party so we could get very close to the enclosures to see the animals which is great when you have toddlers.

We enjoyed the "petting area" where the children got to hold/stroke and feed a few animals such as ducklings, lambs, rabbits, guinea pigs and an eagle owl, they seemed to enjoy this part a lot and we got some lovely photographs.

The enclosures for the animals seemed a little small for some of the animals but it seems that when they mature they are moved out to the larger fields and the smaller enclosures are just for the younger animals.

Disappointingly the fairground rides, tractor rides and pony rides weren't being run because it was "low season" and the outside swings/slides were wet from the rain so also not in use. When they are operating the tractor rides, pony rides, play barn and fun fair rides are all charged at an additional £1.00

We all had lunch in the cafe which has a few hot meals and the usual sandwiches and jacket potatoes. There is a childrens menu although everything was served with chips and beans! When we ordered there weren't any beans and no alternative such as peas was available - still charging the full meal price though :(

The park has new management this year and they are in the process of making changes so it will be interesting to see what developments are made, the place does need some tlc. Our children at 2 years old were happy enough though especially when we went into the play barn.

I think the price for children needs to be looked at, £6.00 for two year old is a little steep, especially when half the facilities are not available. Maybe the play barn should be included in the price rather than a separate charge, especially in the wet weather we had.

The cafe could do with a make over and a healthy option for the childrens menu - even a choice of mashed potato rather than just chips would be welcomed.

Having said this, we would venture back as the children seemed to enjoy themselves.

Here's a link to the website [[ http://www.greenacresanimalpark.co.uk/ Greenacres website]]

Places to Visit with children

2013-06-17T20:55:26Z

Sarahob:

Quotes

2013-05-13T23:21:32Z

Sarahob:

Co-sleeping

2013-05-13T23:20:37Z

Sarahob:

It certainly isn't for every parent, some shudder at the mere thought of sharing a bed with a wriggling baby/child, but for others it is just another natural thing to do in this maze of being a parent.

For us, co-sleeping was something we tried after suffering months and months of sleep issues with Daniel. It was suggested by one of my "wikimum" friends and we'd tried so many other things, we thought - Why not?

There are some positives about co-sleeping ;

[[File:ReasonsToCosleep.jpg|400px]]

So, one night we put the bed guard on one side and after I breast fed Daniel put him down next to me in our bed...
(Paul was evicted to the spare room)...

I slept next to Daniel, just close enough that he knew I was there, and it certainly helped him sleep. For the first time in 9 months we saw improvements in his sleep and finally we had a few nights of him sleeping through - such a blessing when we had struggled for so long.

It is something we have carried on, on nights where Daniel is unsettled he will come in between us and pretty much he'll sleep really well. Its not every night, he'll maybe come into our bed once/twice a week, but it means the three of us get a good nights sleep - heaven :)

Don't get me wrong, some nights he can be a wriggler, I'll wake up with a foot stuck into my back or a head across my chest so not ideal, but I gently move him over and reclaim my side of the bed!

[[File:Sleep positions.png|400px]]

There are some warnings with regard to co-sleeping so if you are thinking about trying it, please make sure you follow the advice given... I've put a link to a help page

[[http://www.babycentre.co.uk/a558334/making-co-sleeping-safe Babycentre co sleeping advice]]

--[[User:Sarahob|Sarahob]] ([[User talk:Sarahob|talk]]) [[File:Sarahob.jpg|64px|link=User:Sarahob|Sarahob]] 23:14, 13 May 2013 (UTC)

Co-sleeping

2013-05-13T23:18:02Z

Sarahob:

It certainly isn't for every parent, some shudder at the mere thought of sharing a bed with a wriggling baby/child, but for others it is just another natural thing to do in this maze of being a parent.

For us, co-sleeping was something we tried after suffering months and months of sleep issues with Daniel. It was suggested by one of my "wikimum" friends and we'd tried so many other things, we thought - Why not?

There are some positives about co-sleeping ;

[[File:ReasonsToCosleep.jpg|400px]]

So, one night we put the bed guard on one side and after I breast fed Daniel put him down next to me in our bed...
(Paul was evicted to the spare room)...

I slept next to Daniel, just close enough that he knew I was there, and it certainly helped him sleep. For the first time in 9 months we saw improvements in his sleep and finally we had a few nights of him sleeping through - such a blessing when we had struggled for so long.

It something we have carried on, on nights where Daniel is unsettled he will come in between us and pretty much he'll sleep really well. Its not every night, maybe once/twice a week, but it means the three of us get a good nights sleep - heaven :)

Don't get me wrong, some nights he can be a wriggler, I'll wake up with a foot stuck into my back or a head across my chest so not ideal, but I gently move him over and reclaim my side of the bed!

[[File:Sleep positions.png|400px]]

There are some warning with regard to co-sleeping so if you are thinking about trying it, please make sure you follow the advice given... I've put a link to a help page

[[http://www.babycentre.co.uk/a558334/making-co-sleeping-safe Babycentre co sleeping advice]]

--[[User:Sarahob|Sarahob]] ([[User talk:Sarahob|talk]]) [[File:Sarahob.jpg|64px|link=User:Sarahob|Sarahob]] 23:14, 13 May 2013 (UTC)

wip

File:Sleep positions.png

2013-05-13T23:16:35Z

Sarahob:

Co-sleeping

2013-05-13T23:15:46Z

Sarahob:

It certainly isn't for every parent, some shudder at the mere thought of sharing a bed with a wriggling baby/child, but for others it is just another natural thing to do in this maze of being a parent.

For us, co-sleeping was something we tried after suffering months and months of sleep issues with Daniel. It was suggested by one of my "wikimum" friends and we'd tried so many other things, we thought - Why not?

There are some positives about co-sleeping ;

[[File:ReasonsToCosleep.jpg|300px]]

So, one night we put the bed guard on one side and after I breast fed Daniel put him down next to me in our bed...
(Paul was evicted to the spare room)...

I slept next to Daniel, just close enough that he knew I was there, and it certainly helped him sleep. For the first time in 9 months we saw improvements in his sleep and finally we had a few nights of him sleeping through - such a blessing when we had struggled for so long.

It something we have carried on, on nights where Daniel is unsettled he will come in between us and pretty much he'll sleep really well. Its not every night, maybe once/twice a week, but it means the three of us get a good nights sleep - heaven :)

Don't get me wrong, some nights he can be a wriggler, I'll wake up with a foot stuck into my back or a head across my chest so not ideal, but I gently move him over and reclaim my side of the bed!

There are some warning with regard to co-sleeping so if you are thinking about trying it, please make sure you follow the advice given... I've put a link to a help page

[[http://www.babycentre.co.uk/a558334/making-co-sleeping-safe Babycentre co sleeping advice]]

--[[User:Sarahob|Sarahob]] ([[User talk:Sarahob|talk]]) [[File:Sarahob.jpg|64px|link=User:Sarahob|Sarahob]] 23:14, 13 May 2013 (UTC)

wip

Co-sleeping

2013-05-13T23:14:24Z

Sarahob: Created page with "It certainly isn't for every parent, some shudder at the mere thought of sharing a bed with a wriggling baby/child, but for others it is just another natural thing to do in th..."

It certainly isn't for every parent, some shudder at the mere thought of sharing a bed with a wriggling baby/child, but for others it is just another natural thing to do in this maze of being a parent.

For us, co-sleeping was something we tried after suffering months and months of sleep issues with Daniel. It was suggested by one of my "wikimum" friends and we'd tried so many other things, we thought - Why not?

So, one night we put the bed guard on one side and after I breast fed Daniel put him down next to me in our bed...
(Paul was evicted to the spare room)...

I slept next to Daniel, just close enough that he knew I was there, and it certainly helped him sleep. For the first time in 9 months we saw improvements in his sleep and finally we had a few nights of him sleeping through - such a blessing when we had struggled for so long.

It something we have carried on, on nights where Daniel is unsettled he will come in between us and pretty much he'll sleep really well. Its not every night, maybe once/twice a week, but it means the three of us get a good nights sleep - heaven :)

Don't get me wrong, some nights he can be a wriggler, I'll wake up with a foot stuck into my back or a head across my chest so not ideal, but I gently move him over and reclaim my side of the bed!

There are some warning with regard to co-sleeping so if you are thinking about trying it, please make sure you follow the advice given... I've put a link to a help page

[[http://www.babycentre.co.uk/a558334/making-co-sleeping-safe Babycentre co sleeping advice]]

--[[User:Sarahob|Sarahob]] ([[User talk:Sarahob|talk]]) [[File:Sarahob.jpg|64px|link=User:Sarahob|Sarahob]] 23:14, 13 May 2013 (UTC)

wip

File:ReasonsToCosleep.jpg

2013-05-13T23:13:36Z

Sarahob:

Sleep

2013-05-13T22:55:02Z

Sarahob:

* [[How much sleep?]]
* [[Night Terrors]]
* [[Tips for Getting Baby to Sleep Through!]]
* [[Establishing a Routine]]
* [[Sleep Issues]]
* [[Co-sleeping]]

Sleep is for Wimps!

2013-05-13T22:54:19Z

Sarahob:

When I was pregnant, particularly towards the end of the pregnancy, virtually everyone I spoke to had advice of some description, none more so than about sleep...

''Sleep now whilst you can''

''Babies spend more time sleeping than being awake''

''You sleep when baby sleeps''

Any of the above sound familiar?

Well, they were right about one thing, we should have slept more whilst we could! Daniel was born at 2:38am and sleep was not on the agenda from day one.

==The Problem==

He would sleep okay during the day, in his moses basket or in his "frog like" position on Paul or I, but it was the night time that we soon began to dread. He would have his breast feed at 10pm ish and then wake again around 12:30am and that was it, the bewitching hours began... He just would not settle and go back to sleep, much preferring to stay awake!

[[File:Bib.jpg]]

===What we tried===

Nothing would settle him, I would breastfeed him and although he would fall asleep whilst feeding he would wake again as soon as we tried to put him down in his moses basket, it was like a switch, start to put him down and the crying began and didn't stop.

We tried all sorts to try and get him back to sleep,
another feed in case he was still hungry (so difficult to know how much milk a breast fed baby has had),
we tried swaddling,
we tried putting a top of mine in his moses basket for him lie on, then one of Pauls!,
we tried rocking him,
we tried infacol incase he had windy problem,
just endless unfruitful attempts at getting a baby who seemed determined not to sleep to get to sleep.

I remember Pauls shoulder being one of the successes, he would hold Daniel and pace around the house singing to him - I have to say I did fall asleep out of exhaustion a few times when Paul was on one of his ventures around the house on more than one occasion - but don't tell him that!

It got harder when Paul went back to work and obviously it was so important he got some sleep through the night, so I would do the pacing whilst he went to sleep in the spare room to try and get some shut eye.

===Exhaustion===

I do remember one night, sitting on the bed, holding Daniel and just crying... Pure exhaustion, its amazing how lack of sleep can make you so much more emotional than normal.
I remember loving the day time, a gorgeous little baby bear to keep us smiling and entertained, but as soon as night time approached that dread would start, for us, it really was the hardest part of parenting.

[[File:Final web nosleep thomaspitilli.jpg]]

===Help!===

I went to the doctors because we were worried Daniel was poorly, thankfully he was given a clean bill of health. When I explained to the doctor the sleep issues, he laughed and said "Welcome to Parenthood" ...
I went to see the Health Visitor, again explaining the sleep - well lack of sleep - we were getting and again was pretty much told to "get on with it"...
I remember being disappointed at the lack of support from the professionals ---- I was lucky, I had my "wikimums" to fall back on for support, the moral boosting and understanding they gave me was invaluable. I do feel for mummies and daddies who go the sleep deprivation, its hard, damn hard.

===Solution===

How long did it continue???? Months and months...
Probably around the 9 month mark it started improving - what did we do to improve things, I started co-sleeping with Daniel and straight away it helped. Whether it was the close contact he needed or whether it was just "one of those things" who knows? I guess we'll never know, we were just delighted to finally start getting some much needed sleep!

[[File:Baby feet.jpg]]

Even now at 2 years old he doesn't consistently sleep through, but it is soooooo much better - you kind of forget how awful it was at the start. The lack of sleep, the exhaustion.... Would I have another baby and risk losing our sleep again?
You betcha I would! It may be hell on earth whilst its happening, but it doesn't last forever, that's the beauty of our little kiddiewinkles. they develop so quickly the next stage is never far away....

Useful links... So here's the NHS website which I hope may help you if you have a baby like Daniel who doesn't sleep!

[[http://www.nhs.uk/Conditions/pregnancy-and-baby/Pages/sleep-problems-in-children.aspx NHS help with sleep]]

--[[User:Sarahob|Sarahob]] ([[User talk:Sarahob|talk]]) [[File:Sarahob.jpg|64px|link=User:Sarahob|Sarahob]] 22:26, 13 May 2013 (UTC)

Sleep is for Wimps!

2013-05-13T22:53:27Z

Sarahob:

When I was pregnant, particularly towards the end of the pregnancy, virtually everyone I spoke to had advice of some description, none more so than about sleep...

''Sleep now whilst you can''

''Babies spend more time sleeping than being awake''

''You sleep when baby sleeps''

Any of the above sound familiar?

Well, they were right about one thing, we should have slept more whilst we could! Daniel was born at 2:38am and sleep was not on the agenda from day one.

==The Problem==

He would sleep okay during the day, in his moses basket or in his "frog like" position on Paul or I, but it was the night time that we soon began to dread. He would have his breast feed at 10pm ish and then wake again around 12:30am and that was it, the bewitching hours began... He just would not settle and go back to sleep, much preferring to stay awake!

[[File:Bib.jpg]]

===What we tried===

Nothing would settle him, I would breastfeed him and although he would fall asleep whilst feeding he would wake again as soon as we tried to put him down in his moses basket, it was like a switch, start to put him down and the crying began and didn't stop.

We tried all sorts to try and get him back to sleep,
another feed in case he was still hungry (so difficult to know how much milk a breast fed baby has had),
we tried swaddling,
we tried putting a top of mine in his moses basket for him lie on, then one of Pauls!,
we tried rocking him,
we tried infacol incase he had windy problem,
just endless unfruitful attempts at getting a baby who seemed determined not to sleep to get to sleep.

I remember Pauls shoulder being one of the successes, he would hold Daniel and pace around the house singing to him - I have to say I did fall asleep out of exhaustion a few times when Paul was on one of his ventures around the house on more than one occasion - but don't tell him that!

It got harder when Paul went back to work and obviously it was so important he got some sleep through the night, so I would do the pacing whilst he went to sleep in the spare room to try and get some shut eye.

===Exhaustion===

I do remember one night, sitting on the bed, holding Daniel and just crying... Pure exhaustion, its amazing how lack of sleep can make you so much more emotional than normal.
I remember loving the day time, a gorgeous little baby bear to keep us smiling and entertained, but as soon as night time approached that dread would start, for us, it really was the hardest part of parenting.

[[File:Final web nosleep thomaspitilli.jpg]]

===Help!===

I went to the doctors because we were worried Daniel was poorly, thankfully he was given a clean bill of health. When I explained to the doctor the sleep issues, he laughed and said "Welcome to Parenthood" ...
I went to see the Health Visitor, again explaining the sleep - well lack of sleep - we were getting and again was pretty much told to "get on with it"...
I remember being disappointed at the lack of support from the professionals ---- I was lucky, I had my "wikimums" to fall back on for support, the moral boosting and understanding they gave me was invaluable. I do feel for mummies and daddies who go the sleep deprivation, its hard, damn hard.

===Solution===

How long did it continue???? Months and months...
Probably around the 9 month mark it started improving - what did we do to improve things, I started co-sleeping with Daniel and straight away it helped. Whether it was the close contact he needed or whether it was just "one of those things" who knows? I guess we'll never know, we were just delighted to finally start getting some much needed sleep!

[[File:Baby feet.jpg]]

Even now at 2 years old he doesn't consistently sleep through, but it is soooooo much better - you kind of forget how awful it was at the start. The lack of sleep, the exhaustion.... Would I have another baby and risk losing our sleep again?
You betcha I would! It may be hell on earth whilst its happening, but it doesn't last forever, that's the beauty of our little kiddiewinkles. they develop so quickly the next stage is never far away....

Useful links... So here's a couple of sites which I hope may help if you have a baby like Daniel who doesn't sleep!

[[http://www.nhs.uk/Conditions/pregnancy-and-baby/Pages/sleep-problems-in-children.aspx NHS help with sleep]]

--[[User:Sarahob|Sarahob]] ([[User talk:Sarahob|talk]]) [[File:Sarahob.jpg|64px|link=User:Sarahob|Sarahob]] 22:26, 13 May 2013 (UTC)

Sleep is for Wimps!

2013-05-13T22:52:32Z

Sarahob:

When I was pregnant, particularly towards the end of the pregnancy, virtually everyone I spoke to had advice of some description, none more so than about sleep...

''Sleep now whilst you can''

''Babies spend more time sleeping than being awake''

''You sleep when baby sleeps''

Any of the above sound familiar?

Well, they were right about one thing, we should have slept more whilst we could! Daniel was born at 2:38am and sleep was not on the agenda from day one.

==The Problem==

He would sleep okay during the day, in his moses basket or in his "frog like" position on Paul or I, but it was the night time that we soon began to dread. He would have his breast feed at 10pm ish and then wake again around 12:30am and that was it, the bewitching hours began... He just would not settle and go back to sleep, much preferring to stay awake!

[[File:Bib.jpg]]

===What we tried===

Nothing would settle him, I would breastfeed him and although he would fall asleep whilst feeding he would wake again as soon as we tried to put him down in his moses basket, it was like a switch, start to put him down and the crying began and didn't stop.

We tried all sorts to try and get him back to sleep,
another feed in case he was still hungry (so difficult to know how much milk a breast fed baby has had),
we tried swaddling,
we tried putting a top of mine in his moses basket for him lie on, then one of Pauls!,
we tried rocking him,
we tried infacol incase he had windy problem,
just endless unfruitful attempts at getting a baby who seemed determined not to sleep to get to sleep.

I remember Pauls shoulder being one of the successes, he would hold Daniel and pace around the house singing to him - I have to say I did fall asleep out of exhaustion a few times when Paul was on one of his ventures around the house on more than one occasion - but don't tell him that!

It got harder when Paul went back to work and obviously it was so important he got some sleep through the night, so I would do the pacing whilst he went to sleep in the spare room to try and get some shut eye.

===Exhaustion===

I do remember one night, sitting on the bed, holding Daniel and just crying... Pure exhaustion, its amazing how lack of sleep can make you so much more emotional than normal.
I remember loving the day time, a gorgeous little baby bear to keep us smiling and entertained, but as soon as night time approached that dread would start, for us, it really was the hardest part of parenting.

===Help!===

I went to the doctors because we were worried Daniel was poorly, thankfully he was given a clean bill of health. When I explained to the doctor the sleep issues, he laughed and said "Welcome to Parenthood" ...
I went to see the Health Visitor, again explaining the sleep - well lack of sleep - we were getting and again was pretty much told to "get on with it"...
I remember being disappointed at the lack of support from the professionals ---- I was lucky, I had my "wikimums" to fall back on for support, the moral boosting and understanding they gave me was invaluable. I do feel for mummies and daddies who go the sleep deprivation, its hard, damn hard.

[[File:Final web nosleep thomaspitilli.jpg]]

===Solution===

How long did it continue???? Months and months...
Probably around the 9 month mark it started improving - what did we do to improve things, I started co-sleeping with Daniel and straight away it helped. Whether it was the close contact he needed or whether it was just "one of those things" who knows? I guess we'll never know, we were just delighted to finally start getting some much needed sleep!

[[File:Baby feet.jpg]]

Even now at 2 years old he doesn't consistently sleep through, but it is soooooo much better - you kind of forget how awful it was at the start. The lack of sleep, the exhaustion.... Would I have another baby and risk losing our sleep again?
You betcha I would! It may be hell on earth whilst its happening, but it doesn't last forever, that's the beauty of our little kiddiewinkles. they develop so quickly the next stage is never far away....

Useful links... So here's a couple of sites which I hope may help if you have a baby like Daniel who doesn't sleep!

[[http://www.nhs.uk/Conditions/pregnancy-and-baby/Pages/sleep-problems-in-children.aspx NHS help with sleep]]

--[[User:Sarahob|Sarahob]] ([[User talk:Sarahob|talk]]) [[File:Sarahob.jpg|64px|link=User:Sarahob|Sarahob]] 22:26, 13 May 2013 (UTC)

File:Baby feet.jpg

2013-05-13T22:51:46Z

Sarahob:

Sleep is for Wimps!

2013-05-13T22:51:30Z

Sarahob:

When I was pregnant, particularly towards the end of the pregnancy, virtually everyone I spoke to had advice of some description, none more so than about sleep...

''Sleep now whilst you can''

''Babies spend more time sleeping than being awake''

''You sleep when baby sleeps''

Any of the above sound familiar?

Well, they were right about one thing, we should have slept more whilst we could! Daniel was born at 2:38am and sleep was not on the agenda from day one.

==The Problem==

He would sleep okay during the day, in his moses basket or in his "frog like" position on Paul or I, but it was the night time that we soon began to dread. He would have his breast feed at 10pm ish and then wake again around 12:30am and that was it, the bewitching hours began... He just would not settle and go back to sleep, much preferring to stay awake!

[[File:Bib.jpg]]

===What we tried===

Nothing would settle him, I would breastfeed him and although he would fall asleep whilst feeding he would wake again as soon as we tried to put him down in his moses basket, it was like a switch, start to put him down and the crying began and didn't stop.

We tried all sorts to try and get him back to sleep,
another feed in case he was still hungry (so difficult to know how much milk a breast fed baby has had),
we tried swaddling,
we tried putting a top of mine in his moses basket for him lie on, then one of Pauls!,
we tried rocking him,
we tried infacol incase he had windy problem,
just endless unfruitful attempts at getting a baby who seemed determined not to sleep to get to sleep.

I remember Pauls shoulder being one of the successes, he would hold Daniel and pace around the house singing to him - I have to say I did fall asleep out of exhaustion a few times when Paul was on one of his ventures around the house on more than one occasion - but don't tell him that!

It got harder when Paul went back to work and obviously it was so important he got some sleep through the night, so I would do the pacing whilst he went to sleep in the spare room to try and get some shut eye.

===Exhaustion===

I do remember one night, sitting on the bed, holding Daniel and just crying... Pure exhaustion, its amazing how lack of sleep can make you so much more emotional than normal.
I remember loving the day time, a gorgeous little baby bear to keep us smiling and entertained, but as soon as night time approached that dread would start, for us, it really was the hardest part of parenting.

===Help!===

I went to the doctors because we were worried Daniel was poorly, thankfully he was given a clean bill of health. When I explained to the doctor the sleep issues, he laughed and said "Welcome to Parenthood" ...
I went to see the Health Visitor, again explaining the sleep - well lack of sleep - we were getting and again was pretty much told to "get on with it"...
I remember being disappointed at the lack of support from the professionals ---- I was lucky, I had my "wikimums" to fall back on for support, the moral boosting and understanding they gave me was invaluable. I do feel for mummies and daddies who go the sleep deprivation, its hard, damn hard.

[[File:Final web nosleep thomaspitilli.jpg]]

===Solution===

How long did it continue???? Months and months...
Probably around the 9 month mark it started improving - what did we do to improve things, I started co-sleeping with Daniel and straight away it helped. Whether it was the close contact he needed or whether it was just "one of those things" who knows? I guess we'll never know, we were just delighted to finally start getting some much needed sleep!

Even now at 2 years old he doesn't consistently sleep through, but it is soooooo much better - you kind of forget how awful it was at the start. The lack of sleep, the exhaustion.... Would I have another baby and risk losing our sleep again?
You betcha I would! It may be hell on earth whilst its happening, but it doesn't last forever, that's the beauty of our little kiddiewinkles. they develop so quickly the next stage is never far away....

Useful links... So here's a couple of sites which I hope may help if you have a baby like Daniel who doesn't sleep!

[[http://www.nhs.uk/Conditions/pregnancy-and-baby/Pages/sleep-problems-in-children.aspx NHS help with sleep]]

--[[User:Sarahob|Sarahob]] ([[User talk:Sarahob|talk]]) [[File:Sarahob.jpg|64px|link=User:Sarahob|Sarahob]] 22:26, 13 May 2013 (UTC)

WIP

File:Final web nosleep thomaspitilli.jpg

2013-05-13T22:50:05Z

Sarahob: