London Mums Magazine » Central London

FREE LONDON: 500 free tickets on the EDF Energy London Eye on Saturday 19th January 2013 at 9.30am

Monica Costa — Thu, 10 Jan 2013 22:07:38 +0000

Madness in London! The EDF Energy London Eye has teamed up with renowned London photographer Matt Stuart to inspire Britons on a FREE rotation on the London Eye.

Following the arguably greatest year in the history of London in 2012, many people will be asking what can 2013 offer Londoners?

The EDF Energy London Eye has teamed up with acclaimed street photographer Matt Stuart to bring to life many of the inspiring perspectives that make London one of the must see places in the world. Stuart has taken twelve pictures from the London Eye which capture the essence of London through it’s iconic skyline.

To encourage people to get out and take the opportunity to look at their capital city differently, on Saturday 19th January the London Eye will ‘Lift London’ by offering 500 tickets for a free rotation at 9.30am that day. In exchange the London Eye is asking for them to share a photo, a doodle or any other image inspired by their visit.

Matt Stuart commented; ‘London is one of the most exciting cities in the world and we sometimes forget this. My work is all about finding inspirational perspectives from the everyday. The London Eye offers some of the very best views of London and every view is different, so the pictures I have taken try to bring to life the people and the skyline of London. I hope people taking their free visit will be able to find their own inspirational perspective.’

Helen Bull, Marketing Director at EDF Energy London Eye said, ‘The London Eye has been an iconic part of the London skyline for 13 years and offers the best way to see the capital. The London Eye is unique and through ‘Lift London’ we wanted to offer people the chance to visit for free in order to find their own inspiring perspective at the start of 2013.’

Some of those attending on Saturday 19th January 2013 can enjoy a master class from Matt, including helpful tips on capturing great photographs and how-to tips on finding inspiration. The best photographs will be exhibited by the London Eye via Facebook.

To take part in this unique mass-art project Tweet @TheLondonEye #LiftLondon or just turn up on the day before 9:30am ready to be inspired.

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Days out in London with children for 2013

capitaltots — Tue, 08 Jan 2013 13:33:04 +0000

Spring seems a long time coming at the moment, and with all these grey days, children’s activities for January and February need to be easy, relatively cheap and rain-free. Here are my top picks of things to do in London with kids in the last few days of winter.

First up is the Discover Story Centre in Stratford. If you can drag yourself away from Westfield, this is an absolutely magical place for children. It is the UK’s first hands-on creative literacy centre and is designed to fire young imaginations. Children can explore a secret cave, make a spoon puppet, have a tea party, find the giant’s legs, slide down a magic tower, dance on noisy polka dots and run across a trip-trap bridge. If the weather is kind the garden is superb too, with its own monster’s tongue, space craft, pirate ship and giant musical instruments and there are daily story-telling sessions which are top-notch.

If the sun is shining, now is a great time to visit one of the farms around London because you’ll practically have it to yourself. Bocketts Farm is my favourite out of town option, because it is small and perfectly formed so you haven’t got to trek miles to get from the duck show to the pig enclosure or the adventure playground. There is absolutely loads to do, much of which will appeal to younger children as well as older ones.

The adventure playground is excellent with lots of different areas for children to explore and there is an indoor play-barn with a safe area for tiny ones. I went in early December with a 6 month old, a 2 year old and 4 year old, they all had a brilliant day and saw some week old lambs which were absolutely gorgeous.

Next up is the National Army Museum. People are always surprised when I suggest this as a kiddie option, but it is a gem of a day out for energetic toddlers. Not only is the museum itself hugely interactive with loads of hands-on activities and games but its Kids’ Zone, a soft-play area for kids ages 0 – 8 is one of the best in London. It has a dedicated play space for babies as well as arts and crafts, dressing-up costumes, books, interactive toys and panels.

Just remember to book your tickets to the Kids Zone on their website – because it’s so popular they limit places which means it doesn’t get too crowded, even on a rainy Saturday.

Another museum which is rarely on people’s radar is the National Maritime Museum in Greenwich which is fantastic for children. I started taking my baby here at about 6 months, but because it’s so interactive, it’s great for all ages. There’s a dedicated children’s area, but it’s definitely worth checking out the rest of the museum as it is all fantastic. The two cafes areas are an added bonus – one looks over Greenwich Park and the other, on the first floor has a huge area for toddlers to run around. If the weather is OK, you should plan to take all day in Greenwich as there’s the Park, the Royal Observatory and the Cutty Sark to explore. If you can, it’s definitely worth getting the DLR or the Riverboat to or from Greenwich – much more fun than the train and part of the adventure.

Finally, January is a great time to visit the more well-known museums. Places like the Natural History Museum and the Science Museum which are packed during the rest of the year are practically empty now because no one really does anything in January. The Museum of London Docklands is particularly good – not only does it have a children’s gallery – Little Mudlarks, but they run interactive play sessions every Monday with crafts, music and getting messy as themes – they’re absolutely brilliant for an otherwise grey and dismal Monday morning.

For more info about adventures for children in London you can visit: www.capitaltots.com

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Baby Loves Disco seasonal events UNMISSABLE!

Monica Costa — Fri, 26 Oct 2012 10:00:32 +0000

Mums and dads, you can have your life back and go to disco now, babies and older children included! If you have never experienced that, well it’s about time! Here you have a list of unmissable events for this festive season!

Saturday 1st December 2012 CHRISTMAS SPECIAL 1pm-4pm

Tickets: £10 per person

The West End sparkles at Christmas and Baby Loves Disco brings a new element to the London Christmas fairytale. Special appearance from the big fella in red and the entry price includes a present for everyone plus other Christmassy treats. Take a well-earned break from the Christmas shopping madness and let loose for some Saturday afternoon fever, sprinkled with Christmas cheer.

The Chelsea Chillout…

JUJU, KINGS ROAD

Sunday 11th November 2012 12pm-2pm & 3pm-5pm Tickets: £9 per person

We are absolutely thrilled to have secured one of South West London’s most highly respected DJ bars for Baby Loves Disco.

JuJu was voted Best DJ Bar 2012, Best Bar 2011 and Outstanding Mixology 2010 at the London Bar and Club Awards.

In keeping with the vibe at this uber cool Kings Road venue and due to the event times for these 2-hour sessions covering more children’s mealtimes, the entry price will also include toddler ‘cocktails’, canapes and cupcakes for those super sophisticated little rumbly tummies…

Plus, special drinks deals available at the bar for mum and dad – so come indulge in an afternoon cocktail mixed by one of London’s best bartenders and listen to some top tunes mixed by one of London’s most respected club DJs, all safe in the knowledge that the little ones will having an absolute ball too!

The Shoreditch Pizza Party… CONCRETE @ PIZZA EAST Sunday 18th November 2012 12pm-2pm & 3pm-5pm Tickets: £9 per person

(plus see below for details re upgrade pizza and party tickets)

Inspired by its industrial surroundings, Concrete club in the basement of the Tea Building on vibrant Shoreditch High Street is simple and raw. The most industrial disco venue we have transformed yet, our bash at Concrete has to be seen to be believed!

And the perfect addition to the Baby Loves Disco experience comes straight from the kitchen upstairs in the famous Pizza East…

UPGRADE tickets are available so you can advance purchase any pizza off the menu at very special advance prices and enjoy a lunchtime or early dinner gourmet pizza party for the whole family during the event!

UPGRADE TICKETS:

adult pizza & party ticket – £16 (up to 46% off regular price)

kids pizza & party ticket – £12 (40% off regular price)

For more information and to book tickets go to www.babylovesdisco.co.uk

Non walking babies are free, and ticketed buggy storage is available at all events.

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London Eye

Monica Costa — Thu, 25 Oct 2012 08:15:32 +0000

On a sunny day there’s no better attraction in London than the EDF Energy London Eye. My family and I have experienced it at its best having chose the Champagne package. Not only they serve you quality champagne in the capsule but you jump the queues. Ideal with kids to learn about London too! Especially on Halloween when they run special events such as the Witch Academy and you can enjoy a spook-tecular Halloween Storytelling Experience!

The London Eye offers magnificent views of the capital in beautiful (and clean) glass capsules. The Eye travels so slow that you do not feel it moving and it takes approximately 30 minutes to go all the way around. It feels much quicker though as time flies while you are watching one of the most spectacular views of any world capitals.

It is definitely worth booking the champagne experience if you have children. It’s a much easier and relaxing experience overall.

Children under 4 go free but do require a ticket.

Children aged under 16 years must be accompanied by an adult aged 18+ years.

Any children on a Champagne Experience will be served fruit juice instead of alcohol.

Buggies and pushchairs must be folded completely flat and all items removed before taking them on board the London Eye and when waiting on the boarding ramps.

Facilities are available inside the ticket office for buggies which are fixed and can not be folded down.

Baby changing facilities are available in our ticket office and onboard the London Eye River Cruise Experience.

Pregnant women are welcome to travel on the London Eye. This would, however, be at their own discretion. There is a seat in the centre of the capsule. It’s recommended visiting during off peak times to avoid large crowds.

Please be aware that you may be required to queue for up to 30 minutes (if not booked on the Champagne experience) and there are no toilet facilities during the 30 minute experience.

Did you know? A view fit for a Queen – You can see around 40km from the top as far as Windsor Castle on a clear day.

http://www.londoneye.com/

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Montessori playgroup in South Kensington

Monica Costa — Fri, 21 Sep 2012 13:50:22 +0000

South Kensington Children Working is a playgroup where your child discovers and creates. We are a once-a-week inclusive group where parent and child discover the pleasure of working with everyday and natural materials based on the observations of Maria Montessori.

In addition, there will be a book corner, opportunity for children to prepare their own healthy fruit snack and a different activity for practising art techniques. Every session will include small groups for encouraging development of phonological awareness, an essential literacy skill, and will finish with a group for song and dance. Observe and allow your child to guide his own development and reveal himself through his choices. Can’t imagine it? Come have a look with your little one.

Free trial sessions for all new parents. We cater to children aged 2.5- 5 years.

Sessions are limited to 7 accompanied and 2 unaccompanied places. £12 per session.

Drop-ins welcome but limited to availability. Book in advance via email to ensure a place.

Contact: Wen Yong, skchildrenworking@gmail.com, 07595329806

There is very limited storage space for buggies and priority will be given to parents bringing a baby sibling along. So if you are coming with your 3 year-old, we strongly encourage you to come buggie-free! All children love long leisurely walks! Follow your child’s needs by ensuring you have plenty of time to get here so your child is free to develop his movement.

A WORD FROM THE FOUNDER OF THIS PLAYGROUP, Caiwen Yong:

I’m a trained Montessori Directress and SEN teacher and have been that for the last 7 years. Some very authentic Montessori schools often have a very distant relationship with families who are not too familiar with the approach.

So I started Children Working to allow family members an opportunity to become more familiar and confident in working with their children and more knowledgeable in what is happening In the classroom.

The playgroup is a parent-child group that has Montessorian activities and the facilitator (me) will be showing children how to use them the way I would in a Montessori Children’s House. There will also be groups, stories, songs, book corners in addition to all that. The current group serves children aged 2-5 years and we are hoping to start a parent- toddler group as well.

Maria Montessori was the first Italian woman to graduate with a medical degree. She worked in paediatrics and children with SEN before she started the first Children’s House in an underprivileged area in San Lorenzo in Italy. From her observations, she developed an extensive theory on child development which is used in many parts of the world and the approach places heavy emphasis on following children’s natural needs and interest to support character development which in turns allows for academic achievements.

The group runs term-time every Monday 10-11am and we hope to have it more frequently as well as start a parent- toddler group. The website is

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Get kids active at football schools this summer

Monica Costa — Tue, 17 Jul 2012 13:33:21 +0000

Enjoy the ultimate Chelsea FC experience by attending one of fantastic Chelsea Soccer Schools this summer!

Chelsea FC Soccer Schools are a great introduction to the game, the club and its unique coaching philosophies for boys and girls of all abilities aged between 3 and 15 years old. FA qualified coaches are always on hand to inspire, encourage and share their passion for the beautiful game.

Running throughout the school holidays in London, Surrey, Sussex, Kent, Hampshire, Berkshire, Middlesex and Dorset, Chelsea Soccer Schools provide an ideal opportunity for you to improve your football skills, make friends and have lots of fun!

What’s more, you can receive 10% off your booking when you book online! For more information or to book your place, visit chelseafc.com/foundation.

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Olympic rings arrive at Tower Bridge

Monica Costa — Wed, 27 Jun 2012 12:49:02 +0000

One of our London dads working in Central London sent us this image this morning of Olympic rings arriving at Tower Bridge today. Thanks a lot Brian! We envy your view from the office! Thanks for sharing it with us.

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The ultimate teddy bear experience

Monica Costa — Wed, 08 Feb 2012 23:32:59 +0000

If you thought for a moment that teddy bears are boring, well think twice after checking this post about London Mums experiencing a Build-a-Bear workshop. I must admit I often passed by the shops across London and never dared entering as I found the idea of making a teddy bear not quite exciting …. I was SO wrong.

Check our videos here and see for yourself what the experience is all about. I wish there was a build-a-bear workshop in the Seventies when I was a little girl. Actually while we were in the shop at the Westfield London, a young couple came in to choose her Valentine present. So cute and romantic. She chose a gorgeous fluffy Hello Kitty teddy, they stuffed it together, cuddled while putting its heart inside and even recorded a loving message.

My son loved personalising his Kermit the Frog teddy now that he is into The Muppets and also picked the most amazing outfit, a Harley Davidson leather jacket, that turned the teddy into the coolest Kermit ever seen.

It’s a great place where to have a birthday party or a special treat to a well-behaved child.

Here are the kids in action.

Build-a-bear Workshop: a bear with a heart

Build-a-bear workshop: the bear is stuffed!

Build-a-Bear Workshop: the bear is getting personalised

Build-a-bear workshop: the bear is getting dressed up!

Build-a-bear workshop: the promise!

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Chilean Rescue Capsule goes on display at the Science Museum (FREE LONDON)

Monica Costa — Wed, 08 Feb 2012 10:36:31 +0000

From Saturday 11th February 2012, the Science Museum is to display the Chilean rescue capsule – Fénix 2. So exciting, thinking at the incredible story we all watched on TV only a couple of years ago.

The capsule was specially built to rescue 33 miners who were trapped underground at the San José mine, Chile in October 2010. The 3.9m capsule is made of steel and measures 54cm wide. All of the men were rescued from the mine 700m below after being trapped for 69 days – surviving longer underground than anyone on record.

Katrina Nilsson, Contemporary Science Manager, Science Museum, said; “We’re honored to display the Chilean rescue capsule at the Science Museum – it’s an icon of the unprecedented rescue mission of the 33 miners. I’m sure we can all remember the moment when the first miner was pulled to the surface after being trapped for almost ten weeks. By showing the capsule at the museum, we hope to draw attention to the technical and engineering challenges that the rescue team tackled during this extraordinary operation.”

The capsule was fitted with enough oxygen-enriched air to last the 20 minute journey to the surface, as well as communication equipment and retractable wheels to help it run smoothly up and down the mine shaft. It weighs 460kg, is painted red, white and blue (Chilean flag colours) and is fitted with an emergency release mechanism so if the capsule got stuck, the miners could winch back down into the mine. It was designed by the Chilean Navy and built by Chilean Navy engineers.

The capsule will be on show at the Science Museum until 13th May 2012. The display highlights the extraordinary technical challenge of the rescue, which involved hundreds of engineers, technicians and scientists.

During February half term (14-16th February), the Science Museum will also have a rescue robot on display, as part of a Search & Rescue event.

Designed by Warwick Mobile Robotics, the robot can overcome challenging terrains, look for victims and produce a map of the environment. Nicknamed ‘Pinky’, the robot is remote controlled and has two pairs of flippers enabling it to climb over stairs, ramps and uneven terrain. Equipped with a gripper and a head on a robotic arm, Pinky has a multitude of sensors for search and navigation.

The Warwick Mobile Robotics team will be on-hand to demonstrate the robot’s skills, answer questions and lead discussion on the future of rescue robotics.

For further details visit: www.sciencemuseum.org.uk/chileanrescue or #chileancapsule

Visitor Information:

Science Museum, Exhibition Road, London, SW7 2DD. Open daily 10.00 to 18.00, except 24-26 December.

www.sciencemuseum.org.uk 0870 870 4868

Twitter: @sciencemuseum

Facebook: www.facebook.com/sciencemuseumlondon

Science Museum’s inventor in residence, Mark Champkins, explains his ‘Black Hole Light’: “I rather liked the idea of uniting the technology that led to the discovery of sub-atomic particles, and in turn, to the birth of quantum physics (in the form of a Geissler-inspired neon tube) with a form that is representative of the path light would take spiralling into a black hole. Mixing Cosmology with Quantum Physics, I’ve tried to reconcile them in one artefact. It’s something of a metaphor for his work, especially his identification of Hawking Radiation and I hope it can also serve a practical purpose in his home or office.”

Science Museum

The Science Museum’s collections form an enduring record of scientific, technological and medical change from the past. Aiming to be the best place in the world for people to enjoy science, the Science Museum makes sense of the science that shapes our lives, sparking curiosity, releasing creativity and changing the future by engaging people of all generations and backgrounds in science, engineering, medicine, technology, design and enterprise.

Images’ Credit – Gobierno de Chile

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One08 (on Marylebone Lane) Pancake day FREEBIES

Monica Costa — Fri, 03 Feb 2012 11:13:20 +0000

On 21 February 2012, ONE08, situated on Marylebone Lane, will celebrate Shrove Tuesday by giving diners complimentary pancakes.

Between 9-11am guests enjoying a coffee or tea will receive FREE pancakes served with the traditional accompaniments of sugar and lemon. ONE08 will also treat lunch and dinner guests to a pancake dessert.

ONE08 is one of Marylebone Village’s best-loved venues. The restaurant delivers excellent food that has been sourced from local artisan suppliers and award-winning shops including the Ginger Pig, La Fromagerie, Biggles Sausages and Rococo Chocolates.

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