Gemma Shanley – Mums that rock – UK
Meet Gemma Shanley, Stylist, 39 and mum to Archie Age 5
what is the best advice you have been given on parenting?
A mum friend with boys told me that they’re a bit like puppies. They need plenty of exercise, a good routine & clear commands! And from my mum whose answer to any tricky stage is ‘it’s just a phase, it will pass.’ She’s always right, it does!
what are your kids’ favourite foods?
Anything Italian, pasta, Pizza, macaroni cheese & garlic bread are always a winner. He also loves homemade seeded crumb chicken, roast beef dinner & melon. I think he’s eaten melon every day since he was weaned.
what is your favourite meal to cook for the family?
I love cooking a roast on a Sunday. I was vegetarian for 15 years until I was pregnant so it’s still a bit of a novelty for me trying new ways to roast meat!
what are the kids’ favourite toys?
Anything he can build/adapt & customise so Lego is a big favourite. He’s also very into transformers & power rangers which is what he wants to be when he grows up apparently!
what three items do you always have in your bag when out with your kids?
Water, spare pants (still carry them even now just in case!) & a snack
What is a good family day out in London on a budget?
The transport museum is great as kids are free & adults pay a one off annual fee of £17. We also love the Olympic park in the summer, it’s free, there’s a great playground & fountains to run through on a hot day.
what have you found to be the hardest part of your motherhood journey?
The build up of going back to work. I did the odd freelance job from 6 months but then started back at ITV when he was nearly 1 & had just decided he didn’t want to sleep at night any more. I only did 2 days a week but I was sooo tired!
what is the best part of motherhood?
I don’t think anything can prepare you for how much love you feel. It’s amazing to see this little person that you’ve grown inside you develop into a walking/talking person that surprises you every day. And the snuggles!