When Annie Ridout told her husband she was concerned about how disorganised she’d become, his answered surprised her. He said he was pleased; that he prefers her now that she’s forgetful and messy. Here’s why…
Work Life
As the founder of Doing it for the Kids – a community for freelance parents – as well as a graphic designer and mother, Frankie Tortora knows a thing or two about the freelancing juggle. If you’d like Frankie to mentor you, read on…
Family
For the month of Ramadan, Muslims spend daylight hours fasting. It’s an exercise in self-control and gratitude, and encourages spiritual reflection. But what’s it like to observe Ramadan while looking after young children? We ask mum-of-three Sumiyyah Balesaria…
Family
When editor Annie Ridout realised her son was choking on a breadstick, she followed all the advice she’d been given but it didn’t work. She ran to the door, shouting for help, before remembering something she’d seen in TV drama series The Affair…
Work Life
If you’re a creative freelancer, or looking to move into a more creative career, photographer Penny Wincer might be help you with this. She is a single mother to two children, one with special needs, so understands the additional challenges this can create…
Family
“My daughter has about 100 friends. And just the thought of that many children in one venue brings me out in hives.” Annie Ridout is struggling with kids’ party etiquette: invites, games, numbers. So she’s making up her own rules…
Family
For many mothers, establishing breastfeeding is difficult and painful. But surprisingly, putting an end to breastfeeding can be a challenge, too. Here are some ideas for how to stop…
Work Life
The editor Annie Ridout has launched The Early Hour mentorship scheme, taking on one freelance mother to mentor every six months. Her first mentee is Sinead Carey, founder of PaperGrace stationery and mum-of-four. Here’s an introduction…
Family
As a child, you’re taught to avoid strange men in parks, says dad-of-one Joel Defries. “But once you have a child you BECOME that weirdo in the park. You can’t get enough of mindless chats with strangers by the swings.” Joel Defries on the realities of fatherhood…
Work Life
The editor, Annie Ridout, is keen to take The Early Hour to the next level – so she entered the Virgin VOOM business competition to win £££ and support. The next stage involves pitching live to Richard Branson…