In The Know: Cool Things For Parents & Kids This August

City-friendly prams don't come much smarter than Cybex's latest Balios S Lux. The updated stroller is now complete with an innovative Balios Fold Cot, which can be folded on or off the frame into a compact size – ideal for smaller car boots or homes where storage is at a premium. There's plenty of substance behind the stylish design too, from advanced suspension for navigating uneven pavements to a roomy 10kg shopping basket and UPF 50+ canopy. It can also be used with a Cybex infant car seat or lie-flat seat unit, making it a versatile option from day one.

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Childhood nostalgia gets a stylish update with H&M Home’s new Disney Winnie the Pooh x Sanderson collection, created to celebrate 100 years of the much-loved character. Bringing Sanderson’s heritage prints together with the world of the Hundred Acre Wood, the range gives Pooh and friends an interiors spin that feels just as appealing to grown-ups. Expect playful yet considered pieces designed to work beautifully in nurseries and children’s bedrooms – an easy way to introduce a little Disney magic without compromising on style.

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One of the West End’s most iconic musicals has been given a fresh-air makeover this summer. Cats has landed at Regent’s Park Open Air Theatre in a brand-new production directed by Drew McOnie, bringing Andrew Lloyd Webber’s much-loved Jellicle cats into one of London’s most magical outdoor settings. Running until 19th September, it’s a brilliant option for a late-summer family theatre trip – especially great for older children and their friends.

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Back-to-school season is a good time to make the morning routine feel a little more fun and Classette has just the thing. Founded by Erin Fridja, the children's accessories brand has created a trio of school-ready sets  in classic red, blue and navy, each featuring a mix of glittery clips, hairbands and statement headbands decorated with playful hearts, stars and rainbows. Designed to work with uniforms while still letting little personalities shine through, they’re an easy way to add a bit of joy to the September reset.

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Changing bags have come a long way, and Finnson’s Sanna is proof. The brand’s popular organic-cotton style is back in a fresh line-up of new prints, including a chic gingham check and is available to pre-order now ahead of next month’s launch. Designed to feel more like an everyday tote than a traditional baby kit, it’s roomy enough for all the essentials while still looking polished enough to carry long after the changing stage is over. A practical update, but a stylish one – it makes a great gift too.

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CuddleCo’s Beaumont Collection is inspired by classic American-style interiors. The range pairs crisp white finishes and period detailing with clever features designed for family life. The standout is the Beaumont Grand Cot Bed, which grows with your child from birth to around five, converting into a day bed and hiding a generous soft-close drawer underneath. Matching dressers, wardrobes, shelving and storage make it easy to create a beautifully coordinated room – ideal for anyone wanting to create a nursery that feels timeless rather than trend-led.

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Dinner gets a child-friendly spin with Giggle Kitchen, a new monthly recipe kit that puts little ones in charge. Each box contains fresh, mostly pre-measured ingredients alongside comic-book-style recipe cards, crafts and games, with children taking on the chopping, mixing and cooking while parents are relegated to sous-chef duties. Recipes – which include a main and pudding for the whole family – are developed by a chef and paediatric dietitian, with a different theme each month. The first takes families to Italy with pizza faces and lemon and courgette muffins. Fun, screen-free and designed to build real kitchen confidence, it might even tempt reluctant eaters to try something new.

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Colourful, well-made basics without the premium price tag are surprisingly hard to find, which is exactly what inspired Tiny Colours. Founded by husband-and-wife team Hayleigh and Jack after the birth of their son, the brand specialises in easy, mix-and-match childrenswear made from GOTS-certified organic cotton and recycled materials that don’t irritate sensitive skin. Think simple silhouettes, saturated colours and no unnecessary motifs – all produced in small batches to help minimise waste. With a customisation range launching next month and more colours on the way, it’s a smart new name to have on your radar for everyday dressing.

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Created in Desenio’s Stockholm Atelier with a group of young artists, Little Artists, Big Dreams is a joyful new collection celebrating children’s creativity. Children were invited to draw, paint and experiment alongside Desenio’s professional artists, with their ideas then brought together in a playful capsule of colourful prints. Even better, 10% from every sale supports the World Childhood Foundation and its work to protect children from abuse and exploitation. Whimsical, uplifting and full of personality, it’s an easy way to add something special to a nursery, playroom or bedroom – and support an important cause.

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Padel isn’t just for grown-ups. House of Racquet in King’s Cross is running junior holiday sessions designed especially for children aged five to eight, with fun, game-based coaching that introduces the basics of the sport while building coordination and confidence. Rackets and balls are provided, groups are kept small, and sessions are priced at around £30 per child, making it an easy one to slot into the school holidays. A great option for energetic tweens – and a fun way to get them into one of the UK’s fastest-growing sports.

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Swap screens for the great outdoors at Mannington – a 500-year-old Norfolk estate with plenty going on for families. Its Mannington Minnows holiday club invites children aged seven to 11 to get stuck into nature, with sessions ranging from hunting for minibeasts to exploring underwater worlds. Elsewhere, there are wildflower-filled walks, a bird hide and a newly designed natural play area, plus giant lawn games for some old-school family fun. For something extra special, book Nightfall at Mannington, a guided after-dark adventure where little ones can listen for tawny owls and spot bats overhead. Admission is £10.50 for adults and £2.50 for children, with under-fives free, and a standard ticket includes unlimited return visits for the rest of the visitor season – making it especially good value if you happen to be spending time in Norfolk this summer.

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Beach days, swimming lessons and soggy school runs are all made easier with Red Equipment’s Kids’ EVO Pro Changing Robe. Designed for all-weather adventures, the oversized waterproof outer is paired with a super-soft sherpa fleece lining, while the roomy fit gives children space to change underneath – and grow into it over time. Thoughtful details include an adjustable peaked hood, fleece-lined pockets and roll-up cuffs, and it’s made from recycled fabrics with PFC-free waterproofing. Available in a range of colours, including the new Salty Pink, it’s one of those practical pieces that quickly earns its place by the door.

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Baby gear that actually works with your interiors style is always worth knowing about and Ruggable’s new Play Mats have been designed with exactly that in mind. The reversible mats come in nine colourways across four design styles, from playful woodland motifs to checks and plaids, with each side offering a different look. They’re also wipe-clean, non-toxic and generously sized for everything from tummy time to toddler play. A great option for nurseries, playrooms or living spaces where you want something practical without compromising on style.

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A little more freedom can make a big difference and The Babysitting Collective is designed to give parents exactly that. The West London-based service offers everything from occasional babysitting and regular childcare to support for special events, with a real emphasis on finding the right fit for each family. Sitters are hand-picked and matched according to everything from personality and experience to children’s interests, while enhanced reference checks offer extra peace of mind. The aim is to build consistent, long-term relationships rather than introduce a revolving door of new faces – making date nights, dinners with friends or simply a few hours to yourself feel that bit easier to organise.

Visit THEBABYSITTINGCOLLECTIVE.COM