Summer Essentials For Kids

We’re off on holiday in a few days so it’s a hive of activity here in the n4 household. I’ve searched high and low for my summer essentials for kids. I won’t lie, since Laurie’s birth life has been a little strained. Dealing with toddler tantrums, a newborn, a Phd and my work on little sleep has left Dr. husband and I, with little reserve. The prospect of a week in the French sun with wine, croissants, no internet or phones fills us with glee.

That said we still have to pack, and as I’ve been pulling things together, I’ve wanted to share with you some of the amazing brands I’ve discovered. Brands run by parents, like you and me, but who are producing items that are a notch above any high-street store in terms of quality, innovation and design.

Little HotDog Watson

Take Little Hotdog Watson for example. Using the latest in technology innovations, mum Emma has a created a range of seriously fun hats to keep our little ones safe in the sun. Including;“buzz off technology” to repel mozzies, “Goldilocks fabric” to keep little heads cool no matter what, and UPF 50+ to protect the skin. These hats win hands down against the competition. Both Daisy & Laurie have the cub shape in the tropical palm print. Essentially a cap with ears, it has a roll down section at the back to keep the sun off little necks. I love Emma’s use of print, which is bright, playful and unisex. Spot the bananas!

Beanie & Bear

If you’re worried about losing your child on the beach, dress them in swimwear from Beanie & Bear. Bright neon stripes, and prints for girls and guys is their signature. They do a wonderful range of costumes, bikinis, UVA SPF 50+ rash vests & board shorts for kids aged 3-12. Daisy and I are seriously in love with these Yasmin Bum bottoms with their orange frill and matching Zoe top. Obviously the frill goes at the back, but if I photographed them the right way round you’d miss out on the fun! All materials are ethically sourced and made here in London, with love.

Green People

Green People began 20 years ago, when Charlotte Vohtz’s failed to find natural and organic skin care products for her young daughter who suffered from skin allergies and eczema. I’m a huge fan of Green People and have used their products for years now. I suffered from eczema as a child, so I have chosen only to use natural and organic suncream and skin care on Daisy and Laurie. This is why:

• Green People’s Organic Children’s sun lotion is free from artificial fragrances & chemicals that might cause irritation to a child’s skin.
• Mainstream sunscreens contain ingredients that can block pores which can lead to prickly heat, whereas Green People’s sunscreen won’t do that.
• Some sunscreens have been linked to promoting viral infections on coral reefs and so playing a role in coral bleaching. Green People have partnered with the Marine Conservation Society to help raise awareness of what they do, 30p from the sale of every bottle goes to support this cause.

Their Children’s aftersun contains organic aloe vera, calendula, myrrh and lavender and is really moisturising and soothing.

Bobux

There are so many reasons we love New Zealand brand Bobux here at n4. They’re stylish, comfy, affordable, promote good foot health and are completely Daisy proof. She hasn’t managed to trash a pair yet. The company was founded by Chris and Colleen Bennett 26 years ago, when they failed to find soft-soled shoes for their daughter that would let her foot grow naturally. So, Bobux was born! We love these Pop sandals, which also come in white, coral, aqua and silver.

Shop Daisy’s Wardrobe

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Cub Hat* | Little Hogdog Watson

Zoe Top* | Beanie & Bear

Yasmin Bum* | Beanie & Bear

Organic Children Suntan Lotion* | Green People

Organic Children Lotion & Aftersun* | Green People

Pop Sandals* | Bobux

Sunglasses* | Molo (last season)

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