The Mirror / June 2004

JOIN THE TOT.COM FAMILY

While there is nothing more exciting than the arrival of a baby, few events are more daunting.

These days, though, the net can make a new parent's life so much easier.

When her daughter Lia was born two years ago, Joanne Mallon, 33, a careers adviser from North London, soon found the net invaluable.

"I had difficulty breastfeeding at first, and I found various sites a great support," says Joanne.

"Lia then became ill with reflux, where a faulty stomach valve meant she couldn't keep food down.

"It was very distressing but through the net I was able to communicate with other parents who had been through the same."

Here Joanne shares her essential sites for parents:

By parents for parents, www.mumsnet.com is full of equipment reviews and advice, Life After Kids, tantrums and how to manage your frustration. www.ukparents.co.uk offers similar information as well as a swap shop and buy-and-sell section to pass on unwanted equipment as children grow up.

At www.b4baby.com you can ask a panel of experts about parenting and share tips in the chatroom. For single parents, it's worth bookmarking www.planetoneparent.com which has a chatroom, a solicitor, a place for those wanting to get out on dates and a holiday-booking service.

www.netdoctor.co.uk covers every topic, from car safety and vaccinations to nappy rash and sleeping problems. At www.mothercare.com you can buy the lot, from books to bottle sterilisers. There's also a finance section which covers issues of how much your baby will cost you and how to prepare for the future.

If you need a baby sitter, visit www.sitters.co.uk to can book fully-vetted, professional sitters, even at short notice.

MORE INFO

www.bestbear.co.uk - List of vetted nanny and au pair agencies.

www.smallfolk.co.uk - Information and shopping services backed by Great Ormond Street Hospital.

www.babydirectory.com - The yellow pages of baby needs.