I think it's universally acknowledged that parenthood can be a little isolating at times, especially in those early days and particularly if you have moved to a new area away from family and friends. I know that this was true for me; a young baby, the upheaval of moving away from the support network I had AND a boyfriend who works long hours meant that I felt lonely about 80% of the time.
Starved of adult interaction and other parents who just 'got it' (and after a hugely unsuccessful trip to the Ritzy's Big Scream), I took myself off to Mumsnet where I had a stroke of luck - the only local group that was currently active? You got it, Brixton. I remember breathing a sigh of relief and feeling so thankful that there were people who were local and wanted something similar.
After a little hesitation I signed myself up and Marie - the Ambassador for the lovely Brixton lot - welcomed me warmly to the group. Since then I don't think I've made one official Mumsnet meet up - timing as opposed to not wanting to - but I have met up with Marie briefly (on a street corner to hand over cake - don't ask) and she was a wonderfully genuine person who I felt I could arrange to go for a coffee with any time. Now we are in touch regularly about how we are getting our with our respective babies and it's so good to know that someone is just there (for me anyway!).
When I spoke with Marie about the Mumsnet group, she explained why she put herself forward as the group ambassador and it turns out that she was feeling isolated too. With a friend from her antenatal group and another she'd met through Netmums, she started posting meet up dates and slowly but surely, more people joined the group. Now, meet ups are arranged every other week at baby-friendly cafes for people to get together with or without their babies - this for me was a huge weight lifted off my shoulders as Baby A goes off on adventures a couple of times a week.
So, if you are feeling a little lost and in need of some adult interaction or moral support - or if you just fancy meeting some new people - then go ahead and sign up to the group here - there will always be someone there and I believe there is a meet up arranged for tomorrow morning...
Showing posts with label lambeth. Show all posts
Showing posts with label lambeth. Show all posts
Wednesday, 13 November 2013
Wednesday, 16 October 2013
Remember, Remember the 5th of November
It's that time of year when autumn has truly taken hold: dark mornings and darker evenings; the beautiful blue of a sky with the Sun sitting ever lower. The russet and golden tones dominate the trees; leaves litter the streets; scarves are pulled from the depths of the wardrobe to shield us against that autumnal chill; and when I catch a glimpse of the Houses of Parliament I think "what if?"
Now whilst I'm not sure how I feel about burning Fawke's effigy on a bonfire, I do think it gives us a reason to stop, think about and admire the stunning architecture that surrounds us here in London. I for one am thankful that the plot was foiled.
With this in mind, I've been having a little look to see where you can catch some fireworks this year and boy have you been spoilt. With offerings from Vauxhall and Crystal Palace, to name just a couple, there is plenty of choice (and if you fancy braving the cold, you can definitely catch more than one display).
In what seems to be a controversial decision, Lambeth Council has organised this years event to take place in Brockwell Park once again. Despite some concerns over transport links (or lack of) it's set to be a good-un. This years theme is 'The Four Seasons'; different zones will be located on the park to represent Spring, Summer, Autumn and Winter and to top it off, the display itself has been created by the team behind the London Olympics fireworks!
Part of a two-week Fire Festival, Vauxhall Pleasure Garden will have a full evenings entertainment. Beginning with the lighting of the bonfire, you can expect gymnasts, artists and parkour dancers to provide an insight into the origins of fire.
Hopping out of Lambeth, Battersea Park's popular display has a 'Shrieks and Skulls' themed night - what with it being so close to Halloween and all. Unlike other events organised by their respective Council, this is going to cost you and the sooner you book your tickets the better (£6.50 until 27th October and then the price increases). Under 10s go for free, but be aware that they still need a ticket!
Southwark Park's night kicks off at 5pm and throughout the evening you can expect to see fire and light performances as well as enjoy the family fun fair. Southwark, like Lambeth, have been able to host another Bonfire Night that is free - a good choice if you are saving those pennies for Christmas!
Perhaps the most family-friendly of all the offerings however, is Crystal Palace Park. With not one, but two displays, you may feel happier about having your little one out after dark. Whilst the main display is set to music and is full of the loudest fireworks you could imagine, the children's display will be using those that are quieter and more colourful.
You can see all the events below, with as much detail as is humanly possible! So take a look and let us know which event takes your fancy. Perhaps you've heard of another event that pips these? Don't be shy, sharing is caring and we'd love to hear what you're thinking of doing or not doing as the case may be!
It's also important to remember that safety is paramount on Bonfire Night. Keeping you safe are the good people @BonfireSafety; a beautifully designed, as well as informative, document has been filled with some little known facts, with some handy 'dos & don'ts' to keep you safe. Be sure to check it out here.
It's also important to remember that safety is paramount on Bonfire Night. Keeping you safe are the good people @BonfireSafety; a beautifully designed, as well as informative, document has been filled with some little known facts, with some handy 'dos & don'ts' to keep you safe. Be sure to check it out here.
**If you are interested in going a little further afield then take a look at the spreadsheet created by IanVisits, he has gone the extra mile and collated all the information for you**
-----------------
DATE: Saturday 2nd November
GATES: 18.00
BONFIRE: 19.30
DISPLAY: 20.00
PRICE: £6.50 until Sunday 27th Oct // £8 from Monday 28th October - Friday 1st November // £10 Saturday 2nd November before 6pm (buy tickets online), Children under 10 years go free, but still need a ticket.
-----------------
Dulwich Road
London
SE24 0NG
DATE: Tuesday 5th November
GATES: 17.00
PRICE: Absolutely free
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Thicket Road
London
SE20 8DT
DATE: Tuesday 5th November
GATES: 18.00
CHILDREN'S DISPLAY: 19.00
MAIN DISPLAY: 20.30
PRICE: £6 Adults // £4 Children (3-10yrs) // Children under 3 years go free.
-----------------
Gomm Road
SE16
DATE: Tuesday 5th November
GATES: 17.00
DISPLAY: 19.00
CLOSE: 20.30
PRICE: Absolutely free!
-----------------
SE11 5HY
DATE: Friday 1st November
GATES: 18.30
BONFIRE: 19.00
STORY: 19.00
DISPLAY: 20.00
PRICE: Absolutely free!
-----------------
And then there were four...
With Ruth and Toddler Boo back in town and Baby A and me in tow, there is lots to be looking forward to as far as Little Lambeth is concerned. I for one am very excited!
Since moving to Lambeth a few months ago, I've struggled to find things to do with Baby A. It wasn't until I was pointed in the direction of this here blog that I realised just how much was going on.
Thanks to Ruth, I'm now able to give a little something too and I'm glad that I have a very valid excuse to get out and about to experience things I might have been too nervous to do before.
Keep an eye on the blog, there are lots of ideas floating about for up and coming posts - as well as a few drafts waiting in the wings. In between all of that, we'll try to keep you abreast of things happening in the local area. Don't forget Half Term is just around the corner so we'll be keeping our eyes and ears peeled for fun things to do with the family.
For now, check out the Sure Start Children Centre's page. We've been adding a little something, something for you all by linking in activity timetables for CC's across Lambeth. Hopefully to make it a little more convenient for you to access the information - it is a minefield!
We've signed up to Instagram (@LittleLambeth), it would be great to see your photos from around Lambeth. As ever, there is the Twitter (@little_lambeth) and Facebook presence so 'follow', 'hashtag', 'like', 'tweet', 'comment' and 'tag' away - it's always good to hear from you.
**In other news**
The creator of Little Lambeth has a new venture! By the sounds of it, Sarah is baking up a storm and I'm hoping to get my hands on some of her artisan gingerbread very soon. Have a gander at her Facebook page for Honey and the Moon and show your support for one of our own. We wish you the best of luck Sarah!
**In other news**
The creator of Little Lambeth has a new venture! By the sounds of it, Sarah is baking up a storm and I'm hoping to get my hands on some of her artisan gingerbread very soon. Have a gander at her Facebook page for Honey and the Moon and show your support for one of our own. We wish you the best of luck Sarah!
Monday, 11 March 2013
Lambeth's New Real Nappies Scheme (and other nappy information!)
For expectant mums, one thing many take into consideration is whether to go for disposable nappies or reuseables. It's a tough question and only one you can answer.
However, if you are looking for advice and tips on what to get, then head to the Real Nappies for London Website which will answer all your questions on this matter.
Closer to home, head to Lambeth Council webpage and read about the Lambeth Real Nappies Scheme. There is an opportunity to talk to advisers and you can pick up a trial pack of three reuseable nappies. You will need to have proof of address and photo ID. Get in touch with them to find out more.
And for those who struggle with reuseables or don't feel it's the right thing for them, then check out this service which suggests it can recycle nappies! Is this the future? It would be interesting to see energy use and cost for all schemes.
Whatever you're choice, let's hope for a more environmentally friendly future which is easy on the planet, easy on the finances and easy on the parents.
However, if you are looking for advice and tips on what to get, then head to the Real Nappies for London Website which will answer all your questions on this matter.
Closer to home, head to Lambeth Council webpage and read about the Lambeth Real Nappies Scheme. There is an opportunity to talk to advisers and you can pick up a trial pack of three reuseable nappies. You will need to have proof of address and photo ID. Get in touch with them to find out more.
And for those who struggle with reuseables or don't feel it's the right thing for them, then check out this service which suggests it can recycle nappies! Is this the future? It would be interesting to see energy use and cost for all schemes.
Whatever you're choice, let's hope for a more environmentally friendly future which is easy on the planet, easy on the finances and easy on the parents.
 |
| "Sort my nappy out mummy!" |
Thursday, 7 February 2013
Lambeth - What's on for the family - February 9th-10th 2013
Feeling a bit warmer out there? When will Spring start to show it's pretty face? Hopefully soon.
Let's see what's on this weekend:
Today is National Libraries Day and some of the libraries will be holding family activities.
West Norwood Library, situated at14-16 Knights Hill, SE27 0HY, has the following activities:
10 - 10:45am Fun with Newspaper (6 months - 4 years)
11am - 1:45pm Badge making and crafts
If you are down Brixton way, pop into Art Nouveau, 77 Atlantic Road, SW9 for some bric-a brac, cake and tea.
Buses through Brixton include P4, P5, 188, 196, 59, 159, 3, 133, 333, 45, 345, and 37. Alternatively you can catch the tube or the overground into the area.
From Art Nouveau to Arts and Crafts, Tuesday saw the opening of a new exhibition at the Cuming Museum about ceramicists, the Martin Brothers. Many pieces of their work are full of strange creatures and funny faces which will be curious to children.
The museum always has lots of things to encourage children to interact with the exhibitions. It opens 10am to 5pm, Tuesday to Saturday, and is located at the Elephant and Castle end of the Walworth Road.
To get to the museum, you can catch a 35 or 45 along the Walworth Road or go to Elephant and Castle on the 133, 155 or 415 and it's a short walk from there.
For classical music fun, head to the Southbank Centre and have a go at a musical instrument or join the Human Orchestra workshops from 10.30am to 2.30pm in Royal Festival Hall foyers.
The 59 to Waterloo will take you there.
And this weekend sees the beginning of the Chinese New Year and it's the year of the Snake! Visit Trafalgar Square to catch the entertainment on the stage from 1pm followed by fireworks at 5.55pm
Also time to mentioned that if you head to Trafalgar Square you can pop to the National Gallery for family events. Under fives have the Magic Carpet Storytelling at 10:30am and 11:30 am; and five to eleven year old children have a hands-on art workshop running at 11am to 1pm and 2am to 4pm.
For both activities, meet in the Pigott Education Centre Foyer. The National Gallery is located in Trafalgar Square, WC2N 5DN. Hop on the number 3 bus or 159 to get there.
Have a lovely weekend everyone!
Let's see what's on this weekend:
SATURDAY (9th February)
Today is National Libraries Day and some of the libraries will be holding family activities.
West Norwood Library, situated at14-16 Knights Hill, SE27 0HY, has the following activities:
10 - 10:45am Fun with Newspaper (6 months - 4 years)
11am - 1:45pm Badge making and crafts
To get to West Norwood, you can catch buses 2, 68, 315 432 and 322. The area is also served by the overground at West Norwood Station.
Carnegie Library, located at 188 Herne Hill Road, SE24 0AG, has a special Storytime at 2pm with free tea, coffee and biscuits afterwards!
Hop on the P4 bus to get to the library.
Brixton Library, off Windrush Square, SW9, will be holding crafts, activities, treasure hunts and storytime starting from 2pm.Hop on the P4 bus to get to the library.
If you are down Brixton way, pop into Art Nouveau, 77 Atlantic Road, SW9 for some bric-a brac, cake and tea.
Buses through Brixton include P4, P5, 188, 196, 59, 159, 3, 133, 333, 45, 345, and 37. Alternatively you can catch the tube or the overground into the area.
From Art Nouveau to Arts and Crafts, Tuesday saw the opening of a new exhibition at the Cuming Museum about ceramicists, the Martin Brothers. Many pieces of their work are full of strange creatures and funny faces which will be curious to children.
The museum always has lots of things to encourage children to interact with the exhibitions. It opens 10am to 5pm, Tuesday to Saturday, and is located at the Elephant and Castle end of the Walworth Road.
To get to the museum, you can catch a 35 or 45 along the Walworth Road or go to Elephant and Castle on the 133, 155 or 415 and it's a short walk from there.
SUNDAY (10th February)
For classical music fun, head to the Southbank Centre and have a go at a musical instrument or join the Human Orchestra workshops from 10.30am to 2.30pm in Royal Festival Hall foyers.
The 59 to Waterloo will take you there.
And this weekend sees the beginning of the Chinese New Year and it's the year of the Snake! Visit Trafalgar Square to catch the entertainment on the stage from 1pm followed by fireworks at 5.55pm
 |
| Best view is from daddy's shoulders! |
Also time to mentioned that if you head to Trafalgar Square you can pop to the National Gallery for family events. Under fives have the Magic Carpet Storytelling at 10:30am and 11:30 am; and five to eleven year old children have a hands-on art workshop running at 11am to 1pm and 2am to 4pm.
 |
| Found the magic carpet! Now when's the story time? |
For both activities, meet in the Pigott Education Centre Foyer. The National Gallery is located in Trafalgar Square, WC2N 5DN. Hop on the number 3 bus or 159 to get there.
Have a lovely weekend everyone!
Monday, 5 November 2012
Buying Second Hand for Kids- a Lambeth guide!
During pregnancy, you'll see lots of shocking figures about how much the first year of a baby's life will cost. Well we have good news for you. It doesn't need to be that much if you are happy with getting some items second hand.
So what are your options?
Ebay is your friend. Is there something you' have been recommended and you are happy to buy second hand? Then visit this website. One tip for shoppers is to always check postage costs or if something can be delivered by a post or courier (especially with large items). Otherwise it's a great way to get a good quality cot or piece of nursery furniture or anything else at a discounted price.
Another option is Gumtree. The only flaw with this option is you could travel quite far to find the goods aren't quite what they seem. So I would suggest you stay fairly local.
Don't want to spend the money? then try Freecycle. I managed to get a moses basket and stand for the little one.
There are a fair few charity shops in the Lambeth area and I have to say none of them are that amazing for baby and kids items but here is a list of ones to visit:
Brixton
Barnardos: 414 Brixton Road, Brixton, SW9 7AY
They use to have baskets with kids clothes which you could rummage through but seem to have stuck everything on a rail. Good for clothes but not much else.
Streatham
Kids clothes, toys and often pieces like car seats and Moses baskets.
Good for clothes and toys.
Give a Little: 71 Streatham Hill, London SW2 4TX
Has an organised children section with lots of baby and kids items. However it's in the basement which is no good for mums with buggies!
Clapham
West Norwood & Tulse Hill
RSPCA: 380 Norwood Road, Norwood, SE27 9AA
Geranium Charity Shop for the Blind (West Norwood): 356 Norwood Road, Norwood, SE27 9AA
Toys and baby clothes in a basket - a bit hit and miss! Good prices!
Emmaus: 9 Knight's Hill, West Norwood SE27 0HS
Several shops all around the same location. One part of the shop does bits of furniture - some good buys here!
Asides from these I would recommend checking out the FARA children charity shops. The nearest ones are at the following addresses:
Fara Kids: Balham, 15 Hildreth Street, SW12 9RQ
Fara Kids: Pimlico, 40 Tachbrook Street, SW1V 2JS
The Brockwell Lido car boot sale is also a recommend destination when it restarts in the summer. Plenty of bargains here!
And finally there are lots of nearly new sales in the area. The National Childcare Trust (NCT) are good at running them; check out Lambeth's local groups Riverside, Brixton, Dulwich and Streatham and Clapham
You will not want to buy everything second hand nor should you. Babies mattresses should always be new.
Asides from that, many other items can be found as good as new. Save your money for great days away with the little ones or for their university fees! Happy shopping!
So what are your options?
ONLINE SHOPPING
Ebay is your friend. Is there something you' have been recommended and you are happy to buy second hand? Then visit this website. One tip for shoppers is to always check postage costs or if something can be delivered by a post or courier (especially with large items). Otherwise it's a great way to get a good quality cot or piece of nursery furniture or anything else at a discounted price.
Another option is Gumtree. The only flaw with this option is you could travel quite far to find the goods aren't quite what they seem. So I would suggest you stay fairly local.
Don't want to spend the money? then try Freecycle. I managed to get a moses basket and stand for the little one.
CHARITY SHOPS
There are a fair few charity shops in the Lambeth area and I have to say none of them are that amazing for baby and kids items but here is a list of ones to visit:
Brixton
Barnardos: 414 Brixton Road, Brixton, SW9 7AY
They use to have baskets with kids clothes which you could rummage through but seem to have stuck everything on a rail. Good for clothes but not much else.
Streatham
Cancer Research UK: 65 Streatham High Rd,
SW16 1PH
British Heart Foundation: 75 Streatham High Rd,
SW16 1PH
Good for clothes and toys.
Give a Little: 71 Streatham Hill, London SW2 4TX
Has an organised children section with lots of baby and kids items. However it's in the basement which is no good for mums with buggies!
Clapham
Save The Children: 36 Clapham High Street, Clapham, SW4 7UR
Some good clothes and toys but often a little pricey.
Age Concern: 58 Clapham High Street, SW4 7UL
A small selection of clothes and toys.West Norwood & Tulse Hill
RSPCA: 380 Norwood Road, Norwood, SE27 9AA
A small corner of clothes and toys.
Geranium Charity Shop for the Blind (West Norwood): 356 Norwood Road, Norwood, SE27 9AA
Toys and baby clothes in a basket - a bit hit and miss! Good prices!
Geranium Charity Shop for the Blind (Tulse Hill): 178b Norwood Rd,
SE27 9AU
Toys, books and baby clothes in a basket - a bit hit and miss! Good prices!
Emmaus: 9 Knight's Hill, West Norwood SE27 0HS
Several shops all around the same location. One part of the shop does bits of furniture - some good buys here!
Asides from these I would recommend checking out the FARA children charity shops. The nearest ones are at the following addresses:
Fara Kids: Balham, 15 Hildreth Street, SW12 9RQ
OTHER OPTIONS
Another alternative is to visit the Brixton Flea market on the first Saturday of the month. Some of the stall holders do sell kids items.
The Brockwell Lido car boot sale is also a recommend destination when it restarts in the summer. Plenty of bargains here!
And finally there are lots of nearly new sales in the area. The National Childcare Trust (NCT) are good at running them; check out Lambeth's local groups Riverside, Brixton, Dulwich and Streatham and Clapham
You will not want to buy everything second hand nor should you. Babies mattresses should always be new.
Asides from that, many other items can be found as good as new. Save your money for great days away with the little ones or for their university fees! Happy shopping!
Thursday, 20 September 2012
Baby Massage -Attending A Babistic Course
When the Boy developed a habit of screaming the house down when he got out of the bath, I was advised Baby Massage was something to try. I wanted him to continue feeling the relaxation he got from the bath without the fury which followed his expulsion from it, but I was sceptical about trying massage as it seemed a bit fluffy for me. But when he seemed to have colic, and his little face screwed up with misery and pain, I was told again that this was the answer and so I signed up.
The class I go to is in a church hall in Brockley in a group of seven, with a friendly and relaxed tutor run by Babistic.co.uk. As we walk in, the warmth and calming music creates an immediate soothing haven from the pouring summer rain outside. The Boy noticed it too, and his reaction, as I layed him gently onto his mat, in a circle with the other babies, was to fall peacefully, deeply and frustratingly asleep.
We were issued with crib notes and a bottle of organic sunflower oil and the tutor talked to each mother about the reasons we were there. She explained the benefits: soothing the baby, tackling colic and creating a strong bonding experience being among the most important. And then she told us the guidelines. The most significant one to me was that you should not massage a sleeping baby. I looked down at the Boy. As did everyone else. While their babies looked interested and alert, Boy slept on, his arms flung above his head in joyful abandon, snoring gently. As each mother showed their hands to their babies and asked permission to massage them, I looked at mine forlornly, unable to join in.
Still, the hour-long session was relaxed, relaxing and informative. Some babies cooperated fully, others wanted feeding and others just wanted cuddles. And all of those things were fine.
The first session was an introduction and then concentrated on the legs and the second examined the tummy and chest especially for the treatment of colic. The moves are simple and well-explained and easily repeated at home. I’m not sure how effective it has been in dealing with the Boy’s angry or colicky moments yet, but spending that hour in such a calm and relaxed environment cannot fail to be beneficial to us both.
I attended a babistic.co.uk course of four sessions for £55 in Brockley (contact info@babistic.co.uk for details of courses in East Dulwich and Brockley), but Baby Massage is available all over.
Another paying Baby massage class can be found through www.theessentialtouch.co.uk in Balham. The next course starts in the beginning of October, is on Thursday 10:30am to 11:30am and lasts for 4 weeks. £65 per baby. Contact
Baby Massage is available in Lambeth for free at Ethelred Nursery School SE11 6UP.
Email ccadmin@ethelred-nursery.lambeth.sch.uk for details.
The class I go to is in a church hall in Brockley in a group of seven, with a friendly and relaxed tutor run by Babistic.co.uk. As we walk in, the warmth and calming music creates an immediate soothing haven from the pouring summer rain outside. The Boy noticed it too, and his reaction, as I layed him gently onto his mat, in a circle with the other babies, was to fall peacefully, deeply and frustratingly asleep.
We were issued with crib notes and a bottle of organic sunflower oil and the tutor talked to each mother about the reasons we were there. She explained the benefits: soothing the baby, tackling colic and creating a strong bonding experience being among the most important. And then she told us the guidelines. The most significant one to me was that you should not massage a sleeping baby. I looked down at the Boy. As did everyone else. While their babies looked interested and alert, Boy slept on, his arms flung above his head in joyful abandon, snoring gently. As each mother showed their hands to their babies and asked permission to massage them, I looked at mine forlornly, unable to join in.
Still, the hour-long session was relaxed, relaxing and informative. Some babies cooperated fully, others wanted feeding and others just wanted cuddles. And all of those things were fine.
The first session was an introduction and then concentrated on the legs and the second examined the tummy and chest especially for the treatment of colic. The moves are simple and well-explained and easily repeated at home. I’m not sure how effective it has been in dealing with the Boy’s angry or colicky moments yet, but spending that hour in such a calm and relaxed environment cannot fail to be beneficial to us both.
I attended a babistic.co.uk course of four sessions for £55 in Brockley (contact info@babistic.co.uk for details of courses in East Dulwich and Brockley), but Baby Massage is available all over.
Another paying Baby massage class can be found through www.theessentialtouch.co.uk in Balham. The next course starts in the beginning of October, is on Thursday 10:30am to 11:30am and lasts for 4 weeks. £65 per baby. Contact
Baby Massage is available in Lambeth for free at Ethelred Nursery School SE11 6UP.
Email ccadmin@ethelred-nursery.lambeth.sch.uk for details.
Thursday, 13 September 2012
Lambeth - What's on for the family - September 15th -16th 2012
Well, folks, it finally here. The weekend which half of Lambeth has been waiting the whole summer for! That's right, it's the Lambeth Country Show weekend. For those who don't know what that is, over the last 38 years, Lambeth has run what it calls a country show: a large event in Brockwell Park, which has food stalls, craft stalls, funfair, music stage, farm animals, vegetable growing competitions...the list is endless. When I use to go as a kid, they had steam engines! I seen people sky dive into the event! It's that good!!!
But before we have a look at the country show, what else is on?
For those children who like boats, there is a chance to watch lots of them race down the River Thames. Saturday is the Great River Race which starts at Docklands at 10:40am. According to information, the boats will go past Westminster Bridge (Bus 159) at 11.30am and Lambeth Bridge (Bus 3) at 11.35am. So either find a place on a bridge to watch them go past or along the embankment - take a small flask of a hot drink for the parents and some nibbles for the kids. And just remember to wave at all the boats as they go past!
If the kids don't like boats but like a bit of gardening then this is the thing for your family, the Big Dig Edible Open Gardens 2012. As the title of the event suggests this is all about creating spaces to grow your own food. There are several sites in Lambeth which will be doing workshops with children on the day.
Opening times from 10 til 4pm.
There will be an opportunity to visit the greenhouse, participate in a cooking session (10.30am-1pm), try the amazing food made at our Little Cat Cafe. There is also a vegetable trail that children can paint which goes from the greenhouse to the cafe
Cowley Estate, Gosling Way, SW9 6LZ (Buses 3, 59, 159 and 133 go along the Brixton road, past the Cowley estate)
Opening times from 11am til 4pm
They will be holding a harvest fun day with a BBQ, apple pressing, bird box building and wheat harvesting.
Colonnade Flats 8 Wren Road, Camberwell Green, SE5 8QS (This is located behind the shopping centre in Camberwell. Buses 35, 45, 345, 36, 185 and 436 to Camberwell.)
Opening times from 11am til 4pm
There will be a BBQ at 2pm, tile-painting, art workshop, seed swap and a plant swap.
Looking for something less serious, perhaps a bit more fun and games, well maybe Hide and Seek Weekender at the Southbank is for you. Hide and Seek invent lots of new games for adults, children and families.I've been to an event before where we played a giant pass the parcel game and made a balloon disappear into the night sky by answering quiz questions! They have events all through Saturday and Sunday - not only are they fun to get involved in but they are often curious to watch.
SUNDAY (16th September)
As Saturday looks very busy with events and Sunday is quiet, I'll put the country show in here. What a lot of fun is to be had. I don't even know where to start.
Visiting the farm animals is fun. Last year I learnt all about the different types of sheep and was very excited to see St Kildas breed, which is a very rare sheep, in our city! I also love the owls and birds of Prey on display and still haven't got round to holding one yet. These creatures can all be found in the Farm Zone.
Another animally thing I like to do is watch the sheepdogs get the ducks into a box. This is in the Main Arena. And this years stars are some racing pigs which sounds great! They also have a Lurcher Falconry and Ferret display. What a combination - I wonder what that involves?
Asides from the animals, another event which many people seek to see or be involve with is the vegetable character competition in the Flower Zone. This competition has involved taking vegetables and turning them into famous people. Examples that spring to mind are AmyWinehouse and the Muppets.
Other stuff for the kids is in the Cultivate zone which has children's entertainments, workshops and taster classes.
And of course there is the funfair - lots of rides for older children. And there are plenty of food stalls to meet the demands of hungry big and little people.
To get to Brockwell Park, you are served by the overground at Herne Hill or Buses 3, 37, 196, 68 and 322 or on the other side of the park, 2, 415 and 432.
Here's a map of the site to help you out on the day. Print out and put in your handbag!
So fingers crossed for a good sunny weekend. Enjoy!!
But before we have a look at the country show, what else is on?
SATURDAY (15th September)
For those children who like boats, there is a chance to watch lots of them race down the River Thames. Saturday is the Great River Race which starts at Docklands at 10:40am. According to information, the boats will go past Westminster Bridge (Bus 159) at 11.30am and Lambeth Bridge (Bus 3) at 11.35am. So either find a place on a bridge to watch them go past or along the embankment - take a small flask of a hot drink for the parents and some nibbles for the kids. And just remember to wave at all the boats as they go past!
If the kids don't like boats but like a bit of gardening then this is the thing for your family, the Big Dig Edible Open Gardens 2012. As the title of the event suggests this is all about creating spaces to grow your own food. There are several sites in Lambeth which will be doing workshops with children on the day.
Myatts Fields, Cormont Road, SE5 9RA (Buses 36, 185 and 436 to Camberwell New Road, Buses 3, 59, 159 and 133 along the Brixton road. A ten minute walk from there.)
There will be an opportunity to visit the greenhouse, participate in a cooking session (10.30am-1pm), try the amazing food made at our Little Cat Cafe. There is also a vegetable trail that children can paint which goes from the greenhouse to the cafe
Cowley Estate, Gosling Way, SW9 6LZ (Buses 3, 59, 159 and 133 go along the Brixton road, past the Cowley estate)
Opening times from 11am til 4pm
They will be holding a harvest fun day with a BBQ, apple pressing, bird box building and wheat harvesting.
Colonnade Flats 8 Wren Road, Camberwell Green, SE5 8QS (This is located behind the shopping centre in Camberwell. Buses 35, 45, 345, 36, 185 and 436 to Camberwell.)
Opening times from 11am til 4pm
There will be a BBQ at 2pm, tile-painting, art workshop, seed swap and a plant swap.
Looking for something less serious, perhaps a bit more fun and games, well maybe Hide and Seek Weekender at the Southbank is for you. Hide and Seek invent lots of new games for adults, children and families.I've been to an event before where we played a giant pass the parcel game and made a balloon disappear into the night sky by answering quiz questions! They have events all through Saturday and Sunday - not only are they fun to get involved in but they are often curious to watch.
SUNDAY (16th September)
As Saturday looks very busy with events and Sunday is quiet, I'll put the country show in here. What a lot of fun is to be had. I don't even know where to start.
Visiting the farm animals is fun. Last year I learnt all about the different types of sheep and was very excited to see St Kildas breed, which is a very rare sheep, in our city! I also love the owls and birds of Prey on display and still haven't got round to holding one yet. These creatures can all be found in the Farm Zone.
Another animally thing I like to do is watch the sheepdogs get the ducks into a box. This is in the Main Arena. And this years stars are some racing pigs which sounds great! They also have a Lurcher Falconry and Ferret display. What a combination - I wonder what that involves?
Asides from the animals, another event which many people seek to see or be involve with is the vegetable character competition in the Flower Zone. This competition has involved taking vegetables and turning them into famous people. Examples that spring to mind are AmyWinehouse and the Muppets.
Other stuff for the kids is in the Cultivate zone which has children's entertainments, workshops and taster classes.
And of course there is the funfair - lots of rides for older children. And there are plenty of food stalls to meet the demands of hungry big and little people.
To get to Brockwell Park, you are served by the overground at Herne Hill or Buses 3, 37, 196, 68 and 322 or on the other side of the park, 2, 415 and 432.
Here's a map of the site to help you out on the day. Print out and put in your handbag!
So fingers crossed for a good sunny weekend. Enjoy!!
Tuesday, 14 August 2012
Lambeth Children Centre Events for 15th & 16th August 2012
Got a message yesterday about a Family Summer Fair TOMORROW (Wednesday 15th August 2012) at St Stephen's Children Centre, located in the Stockwell /Vauxhall Area off South Lambeth Road. The address is Dorset Road, SW8.
Catch a bus - number 2 from Brixton or 88 from Clapham. The event starts at 11am and ends at 2pm. There will be a free BBQ, bouncy castle, and childrens' activities -jewellery and cake making, face painting and ice cream decorating. There will be a live DJ and talent show. Bring cash to spend at the stalls.
Sounds like a lot of fun!! Hope the weather stays good
And THURSDAY (16 August 2012) sees the Effra Children Centre hold a fundraising event at Brockwell Park One O'clock Club from 10:30am to 2pm. The number 2 bus from Brixton will take you past the nearest entrance to Brockwell Park and the One O'clock club
Entry is £1 a family. The money raised will help support families who have no access to public funds.
Things to do include a bouncy castle, face painting , craft table and cake stall!
So there you go, two days of bouncy castles and face paints!! (Do you reckon the adults have a go after the children have left?!?)
Catch a bus - number 2 from Brixton or 88 from Clapham. The event starts at 11am and ends at 2pm. There will be a free BBQ, bouncy castle, and childrens' activities -jewellery and cake making, face painting and ice cream decorating. There will be a live DJ and talent show. Bring cash to spend at the stalls.
Sounds like a lot of fun!! Hope the weather stays good
And THURSDAY (16 August 2012) sees the Effra Children Centre hold a fundraising event at Brockwell Park One O'clock Club from 10:30am to 2pm. The number 2 bus from Brixton will take you past the nearest entrance to Brockwell Park and the One O'clock club
Entry is £1 a family. The money raised will help support families who have no access to public funds.
Things to do include a bouncy castle, face painting , craft table and cake stall!
So there you go, two days of bouncy castles and face paints!! (Do you reckon the adults have a go after the children have left?!?)
It's a Sling Thing !
After months of daydreaming from afar, Milo and I finally made it to the fabulous South London Sling Library. The founder, Emily, provides the opportunity to try out a very wide range of slings and wraps and they can even be rented out for a small fee!
Although Milo, at nearly age 2, is erring on the side of 'heavy and wriggly' and we were surrounded by lovely, sleepy, obliging babies, Emily was extremely helpful at demonstrating plenty of different types and styles of sling and helpful advice.
We tested the Scootababy - which worked the best for us; it is a shoulder carrier and Milo was relatively happy to be slipped in and out, he got decidedly fidgety with all the other carriers. He also seemed content to be carried on my back - something I haven't tried before!
As we are leaving Lambeth I was unable to rent a sling, but there were plenty of happy mums and dads who had. Just a warning, the session became very busy so be prepared to wait but it's worth it! There is a box of little toys, tea and biscuits for the grown ups and changing facilities so persevere, and you will soon realise there's more to life than a Baby Björn!
Follow the library on twitter @SLSlingLibrary
Although Milo, at nearly age 2, is erring on the side of 'heavy and wriggly' and we were surrounded by lovely, sleepy, obliging babies, Emily was extremely helpful at demonstrating plenty of different types and styles of sling and helpful advice.
We tested the Scootababy - which worked the best for us; it is a shoulder carrier and Milo was relatively happy to be slipped in and out, he got decidedly fidgety with all the other carriers. He also seemed content to be carried on my back - something I haven't tried before!
As we are leaving Lambeth I was unable to rent a sling, but there were plenty of happy mums and dads who had. Just a warning, the session became very busy so be prepared to wait but it's worth it! There is a box of little toys, tea and biscuits for the grown ups and changing facilities so persevere, and you will soon realise there's more to life than a Baby Björn!
Follow the library on twitter @SLSlingLibrary
Friday, 10 August 2012
Lambeth - What's on for the family - August 11th -12th 2012
Wondering where to take the kids this weekend? Here's a few suggestions:
SATURDAY
This Saturday 11th August, Foyles bookshop on the South Bank is hosting the Vintage Children's Classic Family Fete, an opportunity to discover some new stories. Kids can get their face painted, make a mad hatter's hat for mum or dad (or themselves, of course!) and be a pirate for a day. The event runs from 11am to 5pm. To get there, you can brave the tube to Waterloo or from central Brixton, get the 59 bus.
Everyone, old and young, loves a maze so if you have headed to the South Bank, pop into the Clore Ballroom, located in the Royal Festival Hall, to see aMAZEment, a labyrinth of books. A quick win- win of family entertainment, this maze should surely offer ten minutes of bafflement. Open from 10am to 11pm, until 26th August.
SUNDAY
Today is your opportunity to get the family into a little bit of art! The Friends of Windmill Gardens have organised an event at Windmill Gardens, Brixton Hill, SW4. Art in the Park encourages all ages to exercise their arty side. There will be t-shirt painting and mask making for the kids and the grownups can have a go at their artistic interpretation of the windmill with support from a professional artist. Find your inner Van Gogh (famous local arty resident!)
Also there will be an opportunity for the kids to have a go with spray paints - is your child the next Banksy?
Event runs between 1pm to 4pm at Windmill Gardens, nr Blenheim Gardens, SW2. Map here
Alternatively, if your kids love to press buttons, hop on the 37 bus from Brixton to East Dulwich (catch this bus on Acre Lane opposite the Town hall) to visit the Cabaret Mechanical Theatre at Space Station 65, located off Lordship Lane at 65 Northcross Street.
So what is it you ask? Lots of automata usually with buttons to press to make them work. You'll all head home trying to figure out how to make one! Open on Tuesday to Sunday between 11pm til 6pm. Showing til the 7th September.
Any events you think we should know about local to the Lambeth area, drop me a mail (see my profile for contact details!)
SATURDAY
This Saturday 11th August, Foyles bookshop on the South Bank is hosting the Vintage Children's Classic Family Fete, an opportunity to discover some new stories. Kids can get their face painted, make a mad hatter's hat for mum or dad (or themselves, of course!) and be a pirate for a day. The event runs from 11am to 5pm. To get there, you can brave the tube to Waterloo or from central Brixton, get the 59 bus.
Everyone, old and young, loves a maze so if you have headed to the South Bank, pop into the Clore Ballroom, located in the Royal Festival Hall, to see aMAZEment, a labyrinth of books. A quick win- win of family entertainment, this maze should surely offer ten minutes of bafflement. Open from 10am to 11pm, until 26th August.
SUNDAY
Today is your opportunity to get the family into a little bit of art! The Friends of Windmill Gardens have organised an event at Windmill Gardens, Brixton Hill, SW4. Art in the Park encourages all ages to exercise their arty side. There will be t-shirt painting and mask making for the kids and the grownups can have a go at their artistic interpretation of the windmill with support from a professional artist. Find your inner Van Gogh (famous local arty resident!)
Also there will be an opportunity for the kids to have a go with spray paints - is your child the next Banksy?
Event runs between 1pm to 4pm at Windmill Gardens, nr Blenheim Gardens, SW2. Map here
Alternatively, if your kids love to press buttons, hop on the 37 bus from Brixton to East Dulwich (catch this bus on Acre Lane opposite the Town hall) to visit the Cabaret Mechanical Theatre at Space Station 65, located off Lordship Lane at 65 Northcross Street.
So what is it you ask? Lots of automata usually with buttons to press to make them work. You'll all head home trying to figure out how to make one! Open on Tuesday to Sunday between 11pm til 6pm. Showing til the 7th September.
Any events you think we should know about local to the Lambeth area, drop me a mail (see my profile for contact details!)
Friday, 20 April 2012
Little Lambeth & Streatham Mums do coffee
Little Lambeth is teaming up with Streatham Mums to host a coffee morning
When ?? Next Tuesday 24th April from 10.30am
Where ?? At the delectable Earl Grey and Rose very near Streatham Hill from 10.30am
We would be delighted if you would join us as it would be fab to meet some lovely local mums/dads/aunts/uncles etc and of course our little'uns. It isn't very big but as you'll see it is rather fabulous and quaint with great cakes/coffee/sandwiches. I'm afraid there's no nappy changing but there were some toys last time we went. We've been trying to think of the best central Lambeth cafe with a baby area & baby changing so suggestions are more than welcome otherwise I may end up starting my own baby friendly café.....
For those of you who don't know what I look like -
here I am in the café where they shot Amelie!
Also don't forget to check out the extremely handy Streatham Mum's Network on Facebook which is an excellent message board for any questions, ideas, recommendations, events coming
up in Streatham.
Saturday, 24 March 2012
Unique School in Lambeth
There's more to school than just literacy - and this is just what the people at The Family School at Larkhall (off Brixton Hill) feel. The Family School is a small, alternative school "where children are free to be themselves and where learning is a natural part of enjoying and exploring life".
I attended the PARENT AND CHILD (UNDER 4s) GROUP which meets on Monday and Thursday mornings each week during term time from 9.45am-11.45am and cost £6 per session per child (siblings under 14 months attend for free) and was very excited to find a wide range of resources including a lovely library of books, musical instruments, a pretend shop, plenty of toys, a lovely outdoor play area and plenty of space to explore. There's also a shoes-off policy (which I am a big advocate of!) and no set activities such as singing so it's great to let little ones play and learn however they wish. It's exciting to know that Lambeth has such a range of different schools on offer - don't forget to also check out The Waldorf School of South West London too for another alternative approach to education!
I attended the PARENT AND CHILD (UNDER 4s) GROUP which meets on Monday and Thursday mornings each week during term time from 9.45am-11.45am and cost £6 per session per child (siblings under 14 months attend for free) and was very excited to find a wide range of resources including a lovely library of books, musical instruments, a pretend shop, plenty of toys, a lovely outdoor play area and plenty of space to explore. There's also a shoes-off policy (which I am a big advocate of!) and no set activities such as singing so it's great to let little ones play and learn however they wish. It's exciting to know that Lambeth has such a range of different schools on offer - don't forget to also check out The Waldorf School of South West London too for another alternative approach to education!
Latte-mama and Milo
My Mr. Milo has just had his modelling debut on the wonderful www.latte-mama.com website. Latte-Mama is the lovely kids' clothes company set up by Lambeth Mummy Isra. The clothes are designed in Sweden and are cute, quirky and very affordable so I highly recommend you check out the new Spring/Summer collection. We have this great Marc Cardigan which is certainly unique and stylish - our little man gets comments wherever he goes!
Saturday, 25 February 2012
Ruby Rhymes rocks!
Last Tuesday we checked out Ruby Rhymes.
From the minute Ruby starts her Tingaling welcome song you can't help smiling and swaying and my friend's little one danced about for the whole session. The group was big when we went which could be overwhelming for little ones but this just highlights how fun and popular this group is.
The Brixton sessions are £5 per family and £3 for unwaged families. and at 10.30am on Tuesdays so they do coincide with Brixton library storytime but the best things are the space, funky catchy tunes and Ruby's enthusiasm. I was also impressed how she remembered so many of the kids' names too. I'll be reviewing Ruby's CD soon which I'm sure we'll be bopping along to as soon as we press play!
There are many Ruby Rhymes sessions across Lambeth. They all start at 10.30am and last 50 minutes, including an organic juice and rice cake/biccy break.
No enrolment, just turn up and join in!
Monday: Herne Hill United Church, corner of RedPost Hill and Herne Hill, SE24
Tuesday: Trinity Congregational Church, St Matthews Road, Brixton SW2 Small church situated halfway along St Matthews Road, directly opposite Tenants hall. Entrance is on left side of church.
Wednesday: Clapham Youth Centre, 61 Lyham Road, Brixton SW2 5DH (corner of Mauleverer Rd)
Thursdays: Streatham Friends Meeting House,11 Redlands Way, Roupell Estate. Brixton Hill, SW2 3LU.
Friday: The Brix at St Matthews, St Matthew's Church, Brixton hill, SW2 1JF.
Email: rubyrhymes@gmail.com for further information.
From the minute Ruby starts her Tingaling welcome song you can't help smiling and swaying and my friend's little one danced about for the whole session. The group was big when we went which could be overwhelming for little ones but this just highlights how fun and popular this group is.
The Brixton sessions are £5 per family and £3 for unwaged families. and at 10.30am on Tuesdays so they do coincide with Brixton library storytime but the best things are the space, funky catchy tunes and Ruby's enthusiasm. I was also impressed how she remembered so many of the kids' names too. I'll be reviewing Ruby's CD soon which I'm sure we'll be bopping along to as soon as we press play!
There are many Ruby Rhymes sessions across Lambeth. They all start at 10.30am and last 50 minutes, including an organic juice and rice cake/biccy break.
No enrolment, just turn up and join in!
Monday: Herne Hill United Church, corner of RedPost Hill and Herne Hill, SE24
Tuesday: Trinity Congregational Church, St Matthews Road, Brixton SW2 Small church situated halfway along St Matthews Road, directly opposite Tenants hall. Entrance is on left side of church.
Wednesday: Clapham Youth Centre, 61 Lyham Road, Brixton SW2 5DH (corner of Mauleverer Rd)
Thursdays: Streatham Friends Meeting House,11 Redlands Way, Roupell Estate. Brixton Hill, SW2 3LU.
Friday: The Brix at St Matthews, St Matthew's Church, Brixton hill, SW2 1JF.
Email: rubyrhymes@gmail.com for further information.
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