Monochrome baby books and flash cards inspired by a love of wildlife.
Spotlight on the Brand - Ruth @ The Little Black & White Book Project
Who’s behind the brand?
I am Ruth Bradford, creator of The Little Black & White Book Project. I create animal themed black and white illustrations for babies and toddlers to help their early development and inspire a love for wildlife from as early an age as possible. I started the business just after my son was born after finding the range of black and white books on the market really underwhelming. Having the business really helped me through those early months of being a new mum as something I could focus on that was just for me. I've always wanted to create a business that gives back to the planet which is why I donate 25% of profits to wildlife charities.
One day I hope to have a fund where projects can apply for funding for conservation work or research trips. I really want to prove that people and planet can both profit! My dream is also that owning one of my books or sets of flash cards becomes a rite of passage to welcome every little new person to our amazing planet and helps fuel their imagination about all the wonderful things that live in the world.
What we love about the brand?
I first came across The Little Black & White Book Project when Ruth was the guest speaker at a Mamatribe networking event. I loved her brand story and her positive “try everything, what’s the worst that can happen” attitude.The interactive black & white baby books and flash cards can be used from birth providing entertainment and stimulation for babies development. The flash cards have fun animal facts to compliment the illustrations making them the perfect gift for toddlers and pre-schoolers to learn about wildlife. They really are the gift that keeps on giving!
Ruth has an immense passion for wildlife and the environment which shines through in her beautiful illustrations and her generous contributions to wildlife charities.
Parenting
‘A Little Bit Dotty’ is all about gifts for mums, babies and little ones so we thought it would be interesting if we asked Ruth a few parent related questions.
What parenting tip would you have given your pre-child self?
It would definitely be don't let anyone make you feel like your baby and what you are experiencing isn't normal. The way you are doing things are only a problem if they are a problem for you. Who cares what everyone else thinks!
What do you miss most about life before children?
Probably spontaneity. We can't just float through a day anymore, or pack in as many activities, errands or trips as we used to. Everything revolves around what's best for our 3 year old, which is as it should be, but it can be a bit of a drag when you want to get lots done!
What do you love most about being a parent?
Oh I think being able to experience all the fun things again. Kids are a brilliant excuse to be silly, enjoy the simple things, have a go at activities that people without kids would be looked at a bit funny for doing. Children definitely add an extra level of joy to even the most mundane things in life.
What would you say is the hardest part about being a parent?
For me I have found patience running deeper in me than I ever thought possible but at the same time, holding onto that patience when you're tired, have a million things to do and your kid just won't do anything you ask can feel impossible. It's a huge test of keeping a lid on it everyday (which often blows and I end up shouting, or worse lecturing!)
What's the most embarrassing thing your child has said or done in public?
I think we have been VERY lucky so far with this one...touch wood, cross fingers, turn around and touch the ground and anything else not to jinx it!!! He loves to ask a million questions, rather loudly in that innocent child-like way, so I am bracing myself for the day there's one that makes me want the ground to open up and swallow me!
A big thank you to Ruth for taking part in Spotlight on the Brand.
Shop our The Little Black & White Book Project range in our For Babies and For Little Ones collections.