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There is always a great buzz around The Baby Show at the NEC, Birmingham but is it really worth going? 

I have been a the show for the past 4 years, in support of businesses, as a pregnant mum, as a new mum and today as an "expert" on the Mumsclub stand. The one thing I noticed this year was that there were more big brands at the show, than in previous years, in particular Asda had a big presence but the whole show had an overall great feel to it.

It is not always cheap to attend exhibitions like The Baby Show but there have been lots of offers around for reduced ticket prices, try the Mumsclub site for 40% off. Once inside the show, it is probably best to have a plan, otherwise you will quickly realise that you are missing some amazing stands and great deals.

Despite the fact that the floor plan isnt always clear to follow, the actual aisles are extremely spacious with lots of pushchair room, even while some of us (this may have actually been me) stood in the aisles chatting. So where are the top places to visit?

The Natal Company - The Natal Company is made up of MummyNatal, BabyNatal and DaddyNatal and they will be running classes across all three days of The Baby Show. Their ethos is to support families to have a confident, empowered and enjoyable experience into parenthood. This resonates so clearly with our own daughters birth that we highly recommend paying them a visit!

Tommee Tippee Feeding Area - This is a great space in the one corner of the show and has a private breastfeeding area and free baby food. It also has a seated area (and let me tell you, your feet will be grateful of this after a while).

Mimijumi UK - Now on the subject of breastfeeding, we found an amazing concept from Mimijumi UK. The bottle is unlike no other we have seen and as a mum who struggled to make the transition from breast to bottle, it is certainly a consideration for mums in the same situation. Replicating a mother’s nipple and breast, the innovative teat design is a key factor which creates a natural feeding and latching experience for a happier & healthier bottle fed baby. It may have raised a few eyebrows but if you are mum, you know you will try anything!

Baby Changing Area – We have all been to grotty changing rooms but the Baby Show has a large area with free nappies and free wipes ..... what is not to love??            

The Fisher-Price Crèche – The Baby Show is obviously about our beautiful little ones but we all know that sometimes it is easier (and quicker) to zoom around the stands we want to go to, without worrying about a blanket or toy falling on the floor! The Fisher Price Creche looked extremely popular today though with lots of toys and things to learn whilst playing.  All the staff are fully trained nursery staff and are CRB checked but our word of warning would be to book in advance or at least as early as possible!!

In terms of the stores and stands available there is a great mix from pushchairs, clothes, bibs, furniture, so if you are a pregnant mum, new mum or an experienced mum, there is something for everyone. 

Our advice, make a list of what you need and "try" and stick to it!

Oh .... and maybe take some snacks as the queue for food was huge!!