In this issue

We are delighted to have baby Lara on our front cover for spring. She is 1 of 9 kids to the lovely Rosemary and Stephen Murphy. Families with seven or more children were a normal part of daily life only 30 or 40 years ago. With the average family now at just 1.4 children, big broods are an increasingly unusual sight in Ireland. That being said, there are some mums who (unapologetically!) thrive on the energy and excitement of having a big family - despite sometimes encountering unwanted comment from others. Make sure to read our interview with Rosemary and find out a little about the daily running of a big household.

Have you ever heard of ‘baby led weaning’? All parents face the same questions when they take their first steps into the world of weaning; is my baby ready, what first foods should I start with and how much food should I be giving? There is also the consideration of whether to go down the baby-led or spoon-led route. We have Author and baby food guru, Annabel Karmel on hand to walk is through this exciting stage in baby’s development.

Favouritism is very common but can leave the discarded parent feeling neglected, lost and naturally upset. It's a phase, is often the resounding answer and yes, it normally is but that does not make the situation any less hurtful or difficult to deal with for the parent who is not wanted. Read more from Geraldine Walsh on dealing with this common parenting situation.

Don’t forget to enter this issue’s amazing competitions, which include; a spa break at Knockranny spa and hotel, a Dreamgenii pillow and a really cool elephant activity centre.

Mums and Tots Magazine Description:

Mums & Tots encompasses it all in a stylish and accessible 100 page glossy, total package, whether its; pregnancy, baby’s health, parenting, local events, latest products or reader competitions. We aim to reach mums on a very real level in every aspect of their pre and post natal journey.