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.

Keep toddlers safe while travelling

One of the defining characteristics of a toddler is they don't stay still for long. It's one thing when you're at home and you know the layout of your house and where any potential hazards may lie, but it's harder when you're travelling or in a strange place.

I love this Lindam Travel Safety Barrier, which is fully collapsible, so perfect for taking with you when travelling or just visiting friends or relatives. Find more stair gates and playpens at Nappy Valley.

Exercising with babies

I've just started doing an online running course (if you're interested, it's Up & Running and I'd recommend it) and the main problem I've had is fitting running around looking after the children. At the moment, I can only do it when I've got childcare, but if I want to fit running into my life permanently (and I'm pretty sure I do) then I need another option.

Running or jogging buggies are a wonderful invention. It's a good idea to try a few out before committing because they make be more or less comfortable depending on your running style, but there's currently a Quinny Speedi buggy system (together with Dreami carrycot for newborns, footmuff and raincover) available on Nappy Valley. Happy running!

Get ready for Easter

These Hide n Squeak Eggs from Tomy were a huge hit with my boys last year. In fact, we only have five left because one was so well hidden we never found it.

It's such a great, versatile toy - you can crack open the eggs to reveal the brightly coloured press-and-cheep chicks, plus it's also a shape sorting game (matching egg bases to the right shaped hole in the box), making it egg-cellent (sorry) for hand to eye coordination and memory skills.

Find one in great condition on Nappy Valley right now.

Shea Mooti skincare discount

Shea Mooti’s luxurious skincare products are designed for mothers, mothers-to-be, their precious little bundles, and the journey beyond. The delicious range includes stretch mark oil, balms, creams and organic soaps, containing only botanical oils and butters known for their caring properties.

Shea Mooti are currently offering Nappy Valley readers at 12% discount - to claim your discount just enter code: NAPVAL13 at the checkout.

Find more discounts on our Lovely Offers page.

Do you doomoo?

I bought one of these lovely doomoo baby bean bag seats when I had my second son and we all loved it.

The seat is so adaptable - suitable from newborn to bigger children (up to 30kg). The top cover can be detached - which is handy for washing - and, unlike some beanbags, the seat is actually suitable for babies to sleep in. In fact, you get two top covers: one with a baby harness and one without. It's a really handy and stylish alternative to a bouncy chair and you can currently find one on Nappy Valley.