Life changes when you have a baby – and that includes your relationships. Here’s how to stay sweet with everyone
from your BFF to your boss.

Now you’re a mum, every waking moment is spent looking after your little one, catching up on housework, and maybe even juggling work as well. Add to that making time for your partner, family and friends, a spot of shut-eye and some me-time – it’s no wonder you’re feeling stretched!

With so much going on, it’s easy to see how those closest to you may feel left out, or how professional relationships can change. The people around you are getting used to a whole new you. So here’s how to keep things sweet with key folk in your life…

Your partner
Becoming a parent is a steep learning curve for you and your other half. After having a baby together, you may be feeling more bonded, or you could be feeling the strain of added responsibility and sleepless nights.

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Published in Prima Baby & Pregnancy. Copyright Immediate Media.

A politician has called for the laws on smacking to be relaxed, while the NSPCC maintains it should be banned altogether. Who’s right? 

One subject bound to get parents talking is smacking. In England, The Children Act 2004 says parents are allowed to smack their offspring as long as they don’t cause ‘reddening of the skin’. Any hitting that causes bruising, swelling, cuts, grazes or scratches can result in five years in jail. 

Many campaigners have long called for a total ban. “We believe very strongly there are alternatives to smacking that are much more effective,” says Chris Cloke, head of child protection awareness at NSPCC.

But politician David Lammy, MP for Tottenham, wants the laws to be relaxed and believes the government shouldn’t impose on how parents discipline their children. “It’s up to parents to determine the way they want to help their children navigate boundaries and how they define right and wrong,” he says.

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Published in Practical Parenting & Pregnancy UK. Copyright Immediate Media.