Searching for a nanny? Try Nanny Seekers

I hope you all had a wonderful Christmas and since I doubt you're in the mood for shopping right now, I thought instead I'd tell you about Clare Redgrove, the inspirational owner of au pair agency Nanny Seekers.

Since 1996, Clare has been finding au pairs in the Czech Republic who are interested in coming to the UK to work. Clare's unique selling point is that she meets all the au pairs before placing them with families. At the end of last year, she was diagnosed with cancer of the uterus and had to undergo chemotherapy and radiotherapy, as well as having a hysterectomy. But she's just been given the great news that she is in remission.

Clare says, "Many people avoid the subject, but I find it is really helpful to talk about my cancer. Now that I am in remission I am more determined to make Nanny Seekers even better than it was before."

For more information, contact Clare at nannyseekers@tiscali.co.uk or visit http://www.nannyseekers.eu/

Happy Christmas from Nappy Valley

We'd just like to take this opportunity to wish you all a wonderful Christmas and thank you for your support this year.

Don't forget to check out our Lovely Offers (discounts from companies including Mothercare, Lush Baby and The Handpicked Collection) and bear in mind that Nappy Valley is an excellent place to sell all your unwanted Christmas gifts!

Image: Idea go / FreeDigitalPhotos.net

Top 5 Christmas Presents for Pre-schoolers chosen by Nappy Valley

Not sure what to get your little one this year? Here is our top five classic, long lasting gifts with loads of play value. Our top 5 will not only give your little ones hours of fun, they are beautifully made, will last years and sell very well on Nappy Valley when they are outgrown.

1.) Early Rider The best way to get your little one onto two wheels, the Early Rider develops their sense of balance: no need for stabilisers! Available from GLTC .

2.) Brio My First Railway Set A starter set that you can keep adding to each Christmas and birthday. Classic ongoing play value for train lovers. Available from John Lewis 

3.) Mini Micro Scooter Another great gift for tots on the go. Now available in a range of new colours from John Lewis 

4.) Duplo Feeding Zoo The ideal gift for any little one, Duplo is long lasting and durable. It grows with your child: you can play games with the animals, or redesign the whole Zoo! Available from John Lewis.

5.) Radio Flyer Wagon Little ones love being pulled by older siblings in this classic wagon. Fill up with picnic goodies and toys and take to the park. Available from GLTC . 

Lots of cots

I find myself terribly tempted by cots. There are just so many different options: practical, stylish, innovative - parents today really are spoilt for choice.

And there are dozens of fantastic cots for sale on Nappy Valley. From the beautiful Stokke Sleepi to a Nature's Nest hammock and the NCT's Bed Nest Co-Sleeper (pictured), all in good condition and at great prices. There's something for everyone, not matter how fussy (that goes for the parents and the babies!).

Buy a bike for Christmas

I can still remember coming downstairs on Christmas morning to find my brand new bike standing in front of the tree. It's one of my most precious memories.

Bikes are always incredibly popular Christmas presents, but they don't come cheap. Check out Nappy Valley for a selection of great quality bikes and scooters at excellent prices.

There's even a Dawes Blowfish 14 (pictured) in "pretty much perfect" condition. Do you know someone who'd love to find one in front of the tree?