Introducing... fabstuff4kids

When we find something wonderful and different we just want to share it with you and that's why we're telling you about fabstuff4kids.

The aim of this family-run business is to provide a platform for smaller / less well-known designers of children's clothes (plus toys and accessories) giving the consumer access to limited edition runs on unique products unavailable anywhere else in the UK.

They now feature over 50 designers from all over the world and are also hoping to launch their own product line sometime in September. They also have two market stalls running in conjunction with the website: one at Portobello on Friday and one at Merton Abbey Mills, on a Saturday.

And, as you can see, they sell some beautiful items.

Oh no. It's potty training time.

Oh potty training. I appreciate it has to be done, but the idea of it fills my heart with dread. Unfortunately my 2-year-old has started asking for a potty and so I'm going to have to take the bull by the horns (and buy carpet shampoo).

But first I have to decide how I'm going to do it. Casually leave a brightly coloured and comfortable potty in every room so he can go whenever he feels the need? Sit him down and encourage him with star charts and rewards? Skip the potty altogether and introduce him directly to the loo? I've no idea. Wish me luck!

Blackout blinds for easy sleeping

I think portable blackout blinds are one of the best inventions of the past few years. The first time we went on holiday, our eldest was up until past 10 each night because his room was bright and he was frightened of missing anything. Next time we went away, we took blackout blinds and managed to pretty much keep him in the same routine he has at home.

In fact, they made bedtime so much less stressful, that we use blackout curtains at home now too. There's a rather fabulous pink sparkly pair on Nappy Valley at the moment.

Just keep swimming, just keep swimming...

My children have recently become rather obsessed with swimming. We'd been using the main pool at our local leisure centre to get them both used to being in the water, but then, a couple of weeks ago, the main pool was full and so we went into the family pool, which was full of toys and buoyancy aids...

Well. They were in their element. And I must admit, I found the pool noodles highly entertaining too. We all had a brilliant time and they've been desperate to get back ever since. Have a look at Nappy Valley for a Floaties buoyancy aid at a great price.

Protect your baby from the sun

So the beautiful weather seems to be lasting - of course, now I've said that I may have jinxed it (I have the power!) - and so if you have a baby or toddler in a buggy, you'll be struggling to keep the sun off them.

What you need is a Shade-A-Babe. One of those products that I desperately needed, but didn't think to invent, the shade protects your child with UPF 50+, shields from glare and wind and has an easy access zip panel. Plus it fits most pushchairs, which is obviously important.