I imagined Lucy catching every infection and disease under the sun, or, before social occasions, that someone would drop her or stand on her while I was looking the other way… Although part of me knew these scenarios were far-fetched and unlikely, they left a lingering sense of dread
What is anxiety like as a new mum? How does it show itself, and what are some of the ways it can be treated? One mum shares her story, in the hope that any other parent experiencing anxiety feels less alone. And to know that there is hope of seeing the other side of it.
My Anxiety Started When I Became A New Mum
After my daughter was born in 2019 I suffered from very intrusive and anxious thoughts for over a year. I didn’t particularly recognise these as anything connected with mental health at the time, I just kind of accepted that motherhood had changed me, and that this was ‘who I am now’.
Imagining The Worst Case Scenario
The daytimes were ok, I enjoyed going out with Lucy, doing classes, and caring for my new baby. But in the evenings my brain would start to produce these awful disaster scenarios. If we had a long car journey coming up, I would turn it into a crash. If anyone I knew was getting on a plane, I felt certain it was going to fall out of the sky. I imagined Lucy catching every infection and disease under the sun. Or, before social occasions, that someone would drop her or stand on her while I was looking the other way. (I was a bit obsessed with people dropping her, for some reason).
Although part of me knew these scenarios were far-fetched and unlikely, they left a lingering sense of dread. It was harder to shift than the thoughts themselves. This dread would escalate throughout the evening and I was really scared of going to bed; the closer we got to bedtime, the more sure I became that something terrible would happen while I was asleep. I was staying up later and later, or not going to bed at all – sitting on the sofa watching TV all night while Lucy slept in my arms. Often I was too scared to even put her down.
Seeking Help For Anxiety As A New Mum Doesn’t Always Feel Straight-Forward…
I didn’t seek treatment for quite a while. Looking back, I guess I didn’t think mental health support was ‘for me’. I wasn’t having panic attacks, I wasn’t depressed, I wasn’t staying home all day. I had a very cliched image of what postnatal depression and anxiety looked like, and I didn’t fit the bill.
But then I had a call from our local women’s psychological health unit. I was on their list after mentioning to my midwife that I felt a bit down during pregnancy, and I thought I might as well go in for the screening. To my surprise the psychologist recommended that I have twelve weeks of treatment.
During these sessions I was taught mindfulness and visualisation techniques which did help a bit, although not with the dread. But once I was ‘in treatment’, I felt I had permission to discuss what was going on with my partner. And in a way I hadn’t before! This opening up was actually the thing which had the greatest impact on my recovery. Instead of letting my disasters escalate in my mind, or trying to push them away, I would talk about them. Often we would end up laughing, because they were so outlandish, like soap opera storylines.
There’s No Magical Cure, But It Does Get Easier
The thoughts didn’t go away overnight, and even now I catch myself slipping back into old habits when I’m super tired, or when there’s something big coming up, like a long flight. But understanding these triggers, and being able to vocalise and describe how I’m feeling, even if it’s just to myself, helps me to move past them, rather than getting trapped. Four years on, and with a second child now 15 months old, my feelings about bedtime have completely reversed. I look forward to it all day!
Where You Can Seek Help
Thank you for sharing such a relatable perspective on a subject that’s so sensitive. It can be incredibly difficult to reach out for help, and you are incredibly inspiring for doing so yourself.
If you yourself feel that you need to reach out for help, then we recommend that you contact your GP to tell them how you are feeling. Or, get in touch with charities specifically created to talk to you when you are struggling, such as PANDAS.
We’d love to hear from you. This Is Family is all about sharing family stories – especially from families who feel like their voices are not often heard. Every family has a unique story to tell. We’d love to hear yours. Find out how you can feature on our blog and get involved. So that other parents can feel less alone.
Our city guide to Sheffield’s most-loved local classes, activities, parks, farms, businesses and services for babies, toddlers and parents
A Bit About Sheffield
Whilst being known historically as “The Steel City”, due to its international reputation for steel production in the 19th century, Sheffield is actually surprisingly green! They have the highest ratio of trees-to-people in Europe, with roughly 4 trees to every one person in the city. It’s also home to not one football club, not two, but three! They include Sheffield F.C., Sheffield United F.C., and Sheffield Wednesday F.C., with Sheffield F.C being the oldest club in the history of association football.
Over 250 parks, a ton of green spaces, and lots of family-activities across the city. It’s no wonder that so many families are choosing to live here. When it comes to having fun in the Sheffield area, the very youngest members of the population (and their carers) have their pick of things to do. So, after receiving their recommendations, we thought we’d hone in on some of the most-loved activities, destinations and services for little ones.
We firmly believe that nobody knows their community better than the parents and carers pounding the pavements every day, so if there’s anywhere on here we’ve missed, let us know – we’re always keen to hear about great classes, activities and businesses for babies and toddlers. Better still, if you’re a class provider, we would love to feature you in our listings – you can sign up below.
Whether it’s a colourful soft play that allows your tots to bounce off the walls safely, or a roleplay centre that allows them to explore the expanse of their imagination, these centres are fantastic for the under 5’s. And, FYI, all of the below have a café nearby for when you need your that well-needed tea break. We’ve checked for you!
With a good mixture of frames and roleplay areas, this centre is a good pick for those with tots and toddlers. They provide both an under 4`s and over 4`s frame, as well as interactive garage, supermarket role play areas, and are a chosen venue for a selection of baby classes! 51a Orgreave Drive Dore House Industrial Estate, Sheffield S13 9NR
Located in Gulliver’s Theme Park and Resort, Gully Town Tots is a soft play and activity centre for specifically 5 and under, and so is a perfect fit for this list. With Indoor toddler rides, entertainment and a very special appearance from The Very Hungry Caterpillar, this pick has more than enough entertainment for a full day out.
Gulliver’s Valley Theme Park, Mansfield Rd, Sheffield S26 5QW
Does your little one often want to do what you do? Kids often explore their curiosity through replication, and so they often want to copy what their parents or guardians do. In Curious Kids Town, they get the opportunity to live that out to a tee! They provide your child with a them-sized town complete with its own supermarket, post office, police station, cafe and more!
Another amazing tiny town to add onto our list. This mini Sheffield PlayTown has both an indoor and outdoor play area with 8 areas for you and your children to explore. Join in yourself or simply sit back and watch as they explore with wonder.
25, Leigh St, Sheffield, S9 2PR
Sheffield’s best… Family Days Out
If you’re looking for a treat that could occupy the little ones as well as any big kids in the family (yes, this could include spouses), then these are some great day-trips out for you.
Catered to tots and school-age, this could be the perfect place to venture with the whole family, either after school or at the weekend. Jump Inc is a bouncy trampolining wonderland, with several different areas to get out their energy. They have a cafe too, so if you or your kids get those post-bounce munchies, they’ve got you covered.
Meadowhall, Vulcan Road, Sheffield, United Kingdom
This museum has a lot to explore and discover for inquisitive young minds. Winner of the 2022 #FamilyFriendlyMuseum awards, they were recently crowned as one of the “best family-friendly museums in the whole of the country”. With several different areas to explore (including an outdoor zone with “Mega Machines”), we’re not surprised!
If you have a number of screen-lovers and videogame junkies under your roof, then this pick would be the best fit for you. Explore how videogames are made, and try out a range of retro arcade machines in their collection (From Ms. Pacman and Dance Stage fusion, to modern hits like Super Smash Bros. Brawl).
Castle House, Angel St, Sheffield City Centre, Sheffield S3 8LN
Travel back in time, and discover what it was like to live and work onsite in the Manager’s House, Worker’s Cottage and Counting House. With a Picturesque Waterwheel and Dam, and the last complete surviving crucible steel furnace in the UK, there’s some impressive history to check out here.
At The Light Cinema, they offer screenings that won’t make you cringe in fear at the idea of your baby crying loudly, or having to pop out mid-show to do a nappy change. Once a week, they offer a Baby-friendly screening (for those with a baby aged under 1). These aren’t films for your baby, but more films for you. If your little one is older than that however, they also run “Toddler Time”, showing a number of films at a variety of times, all fairly short (30mins-1hr) and costing £3 per child (parents/carers go free!)
The Moor, Sheffield, S1 4PF
Sheffield’s best… Baby and Toddler Classes
Do you fancy sampling a class that will help your little one develop a new skill? Or maybe you’re looking for somewhere to relax and find your tribe? Try some of these!
Designed to stimulate, educate and provide precious memories during the all-important first year of life, baby sensory is an award-winning franchise both nationally and internationally. A familiar name that offers all the right stuff.
An established gymnastics centre for all ages, and a brilliant variety of sessions for the under 5’s too! When asking the parents of Sheffield what classes they loved, Tiny Gym came highly recommended, so we’re going to assume this tiny gymnastics play session is a great one!
Award-winning producer of musical events and activities for young children and their adults in Sheffield and beyond, Concerteenies is a great place to see concerts, become involved in creative music projects, and attend online events in early years settings, and at home.
“The home of confident pregnancy, birth and early motherhood/parenthood”, the Daisy Foundation offers a variety of different sessions to aid parents. Whether you’re searching for antenatal,postnatal or baby classes, this organisationhave a session that can help.
Have you missed the feeling of getting a sweat on? Sweaty Mama is a franchise that is perfect for postnatal fitness -with classes that are baby friendly (and new-mum friendly). A super supportive group that holds ZERO judgment for any of the wobbly bits you might have gained through pregnancy.
One of the biggest postnatal fitness classes in the UK, Buggy Fit is well known for being a great way to get fit again after having a baby. They cater to all mums, no matter what postnatal stage they are in. Check out the link above to see what programme would be best for you.
Endcliffe Park, Rustlings Road, Sheffield S11 7AB
Happity is the UK’s biggest platform dedicated exclusively to baby & toddler classes. We’re expanding in Sheffield and are keen to hear about more classes and activities for little ones – get in touch if you can help! We’re always open to recommendations!
Sheffield’s best… Baby-Friendly Cafes
One of the most stressful ventures out as a parent with a little one can be visiting a cafe or restaurant. Worried about pushchair access or if your little one makes too much noise? Don’t worry, these venues are the best place to sit in a judgment-free zone!
Whimsical and magical, this little tearoom is a great place to grab a cake and a coffee in a welcoming space. They’re child-friendly, offering activities suited for under 5s, and hold “Little Wizard” sessions on Wednesday and Fridays from 11am, where there’s a play area and a regular story-telling from a resident magician.
This independent coffee room is making a name for itself in Sheffield, with tasty food and delicious drinks. There’s a small play area to help keep your kids entertained while you enjoy.
1 Brooklands Avenue , Sheffield, S104GA
Sheffield’s best… Parks & Farms
The great outdoors is sometimes all you need to keep your kids entertained. And it does a world of good to breathe in that fresh green air.
A beautiful nature reserve to explore! This area has been the inspiration for a ton of artwork, with its beautiful winding river and a full Nature and Heritage Trail to see. This may not be one for those tiny explorers who wander too much. Whilst the path is safe, and there’s lots of animals to discover, there are a few spaces next to open water. As long as you and your little ones stay sensible when you need to, this place is a great one for tiny explorers
Millhouses park contains a gorgeous open green space, as well as, woodlands, and floral displays. They also have a number of attractions located around the park, including a Boating lake for paddle boats and model/radio controlled boating, Cafe, a variety of sports pitches, children’s playground, skate park, Splash Water Play area, 9-hole putting course and more!
Mayfield Alpacas Animal Park in Sheffield offers a fantastic day out for all the family. Not only do they care for Alpaca’s, but also reindeers, meerkats, exotic birds and more! They offer a day out for the whole family.
Want to meet the pigs and the chickens of South Yorkshire? This is a lovely family-friendly farm, with an under-8s playground, cosy cafe, and a garden centre to cater to your planting needs
Heeley City Farm, Richards Road, Sheffield, S2 3DT
This lovely animal farm is a great place to take your little one, and is free-entry 7 days a week. Every so often they might run events where they’ll charge an additional price, but otherwise it’s completely free to make friends with the horses and sheep.
Hemsworth Rd, Norton, Sheffield S8 8LJ
Would you consider yourself a local expert?
Happity is the UK’s biggest platform dedicated exclusively to baby & toddler classes. We’re expanding in Sheffield and are keen to hear about more classes and activities for little ones – get in touch if you can help!
Our city guide to Liverpool’s most-loved local classes, activities, parks, farms, businesses and services for babies, toddlers and parents
A Bit About Liverpool
Liverpool is a city rich with culture, it has been used as a filming location for multiple films & TV shows, including Fantastic Beasts, Peaky Blinders and Sherlock Holmes. Liverpool is renowned for it’s musical history and is the birthplace of many household-names. Apart from the obvious Beatles, did you know Atomic Kitten, The Wombats, and Ladytron all originally came from Liverpool.
Whether you want to be surrounded by rich history, or you want to be by one of Europe’s largest open air shopping complexes, we completely understand why so many young families would pick this city to live. When it comes to having fun in the Liverpool area, the very youngest members of the population (and their carers) have their pick of things to do. So, after receiving their recommendations, we thought we’d hone in on some of the most-loved activities, destinations and services for little ones.
We firmly believe that nobody knows their community better than the parents and carers pounding the pavements every day, so if there’s anywhere on here we’ve missed, let us know – we’re always keen to hear about great classes, activities and businesses for babies and toddlers. Better still, if you’re a class provider, we would love to feature you in our listings – you can sign up below.
When in doubt, go for a play center! Little ones can keep entertained for hours at these colourful venues, and all of the below have all the proper facilities you’ll need, including a cafe nearby for when you need your that well-needed tea break.
This play centre has been crafted to ensure it cater for all ages with emphasis placed on children’s development, communication and interaction skills. They have two play areas, with one of them specifically catered towards the under 5’s. Theyhost a variety of weekly activities for you to get involved in too!
First Floor, Belle Vale Shopping Centre, Hedgefield Road, Merseyside, Liverpool L25 2RQ
Everything that you’ll be looking for in a play centre is available right here at this independent business. They have soft play climbing frames, roleplay areas, a dedicated baby area, a sensory room filled with lots of different sensory equipment, and an outdoor play area (available in the warmer seasons).
Colourful, playful, and full of all the rumbles of a jungle. This legendary jungle-themed multi-award winning soft play is great for your little ones, and you. They do what they can to ensure that you enjoy, not endure, your visit with tasty fresh food and coffee.
If you’re looking for a treat that could occupy the little ones as well as any big kids in the family (yes, this could include spouses), then these are some great museum-trips for you.
Discover artefacts and learn all about objects and life around the world. There are great exhibits in this museum, meaning learning for the whole family. They even have an aquarium for you to meet all the wonders of the big blue.
Another great location full of learning. In this museum however, you’ll find extra delight in their “Tiny Liverpool” and “Little Liverpool” sessions, where your child can have a hands-on learning experience, and tons of fun.
Mann Island, Liverpool L3 1BP
Liverpool’s best… Baby and Toddler Classes
Do you fancy sampling a class that will help your little one develop a new skill? Or maybe you’re looking for somewhere to relax and find your tribe? Try some of these!
Multi-award winning franchise and well-known for being a great music-class for tots and toddlers, Caterpillar Music is a wonderful addition to this list. Carefully structured and offering different sessions specifically catered towards your child’s age group, this is a great pick for anyone with an under 5. They also have brilliant SEN sessions to make baby classes accessible to everyone.
“Let Mitchy take you on an adventure through yoga poses and flows, stories and games!” This activity is a great way to build your little one’s motor skills, coordination, and improve their self-esteem. From 0 months to 12 years, they offer sessions for a wide range of kids.
Putting an emphasis on being exclusively pay-as-you-go (and some saying you don’t even need to book in advance), this activity is a great way to get out of the house, and spend time with other parents. All while your little ones have an educational and fun time singing nursery rhymes and more.
Designed to stimulate, educate and provide precious memories during the all-important first year of life, baby sensory is an award-winning franchise both nationally and internationally. A familiar name that offers all the right stuff.
A charity run venue with inclusive activities for all, the Story Barn is a great place to let imaginations run wild as stories are shared and crafts are made. Get involved in Tiny Acorns, Incy Wincy Rhymers, Open House, Books & Brambles, or Story Explorers, and be in for a wonderful time.
The Mansion House, Calderstones Park, Liverpool, L18 3JB
Running Massage, Postnatal, and “Holistic Core Restore” sessions, these classes are the perfect fit for those mamas who want to feel good. Many of us are guilty of putting our own health aside when we’ve had a baby, but the classes offered with MisFit Mamas are a great way to put some attention back on yourself and to do a bit of self-care.
Have you missed the feeling of getting a sweat on? Sweaty Mama is a franchise that is perfect for postnatal fitness -with classes that are baby friendly (and new-mum friendly). A super supportive group that holds ZERO judgement for any of the wobbly bits you might have gained through pregnancy.
Mindfulness, yoga, and relaxation. Get into your zen with this lovely independent class provider. They offer regular sessions, as well as seasonal events (usually involving arts and crafts).
What does moving like a mother look like to you? Well, there’s only one way to find out the real answer. With this perfect combination of postnatal yoga and movement with music, you can release all that tension that builds up in day-to-day life, while getting a decent endorphin rush too.
37-45 Windsor St, Liverpool L8 1XE
Happity is the UK’s biggest platform dedicated exclusively to baby & toddler classes. We’re expanding in Liverpool and are keen to hear about more classes and activities for little ones – get in touch if you can help! We’re always open to recommendations!
Liverpool’s best… Baby Shops & Venues
One of the most stressful ventures out as a parent with a little one can be visiting a shop, cafe or restaurant. If you worry about pushchair access or if your little one makes too much noise, then don’t worry. These venues are the best place to sit or browse in a judgment-free zone!
Not only does this venue offer a ton of creative crafts and beautifully restored second-hand furniture, but it’s also a great venue that offers tons of brilliant activities (for you and your little one). We also heard a buzzing recommendation for Toddler Trims, a toddler-hairdresser located here. Check them both out!
157 Queens Drive, Wavertree, L156XT, United Kingdom
A brilliant independent eco-friendly store, and all around lovely business. They offer clothes, toys, and all sorts of great baby items for you and your little one. And at their venue, they run a number of fab activities that are perfect to meet other families near you.
A creative and relaxing space where you can take your kids for a class, or catch on your emails while your little one is still in sight! This is an ideal space for both you and your child, not to mention that their hot drinks and cakes are especially yummy!
270-272 Smithdown Road, L15 5AH, Liverpool, United Kingdom
Liverpool’s best… Parks
The great outdoors is sometimes all you need to keep your kids entertained. And it does a world of good to breathe in that fresh green air.
Home to ancient megaliths that are said to be older than Stonehenge, this open green space is a delightful park to visit. Whether you’re looking to stare out over the lake, or admire the 1,000 year old Oak tree, you should definitely make a stop with your kids at some point!
Open all year round this is a lovely simple space to do any of your favourite park-time activities. Including going to the playground, or feeding the ducks. They also have a delightful walled garden where you can take in a more scenic view of the flowers in an old English design.
Golfing, Racing, Giant bouncy pillows, and more! Otterspool park not only has a brilliant playground, but it makes for an excellent day out for the family. Keep in mind this activity isn’t free, but if you’re looking for a strong variety of activities, then this is a perfect treat.
A Historic park with a wonderful space. There’s a children’s play area, and lots of greenery to run around and explore. Bring a football for a kick around, or pick this as a perfect place to have a picnic.
111 acres of gorgeous wildlife, Stanley park is a beautiful divide between the home grounds of Liverpool and Everton Football Clubs. There’s lots to explore, including Isla Gladstone, a Victorian conservatory set amidst picture-perfect rose gardens and lakes, and a bandstand where plenty of seasonal events are held.
One of the smaller parks on our list, but don’t confuse that for having nothing to do. If you want to explore, there’s plenty of historic features, including the lodge, stables, and part of the orangery of Allerton Tower remain. And, if you’re looking for activities for your kids, it’s also the home to Merseyside Youth Challenge Trust’s outdoor activity centre.
Woolton Road, Liverpool L25 7UL
Would you consider yourself a local expert?
Happity is the UK’s biggest platform dedicated exclusively to baby & toddler classes. We’re expanding in Liverpool and are keen to hear about more classes and activities for little ones – get in touch if you can help!
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