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Eat.Drink.Potty.Play is listed!

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One O’clock Centres

There are 11 One O’clock Centres in Wandsworth council with locations in popular areas such as Battersea Park, King George’s Park and The Windmill.  One O’clock clubs are open Monday to Friday from 1:00 – 3:30 p.m. and entry to the centre is completely free.  Each club has their own schedule of activities so best to check with them directly for a timetable.  There are both indoor and outdoor play areas which include a soft play section for babies and crawlers and toddlers can fully utilize the playground’s swings, slides, ride-on vehicles, sandpits, fancy dress costumes for role play, building blocks, finger painting and more.  This is a drop in centre ideal for children under 5 years old with an accompanying adult so anyone can walk in.  Programs are also available for children 3 – 16 years old during term time and school holidays; again best to check each centre for details.   

“In Play Services we have two main objectives – 1. to improve the quality of play provision and 2. to promote public interest in the importance of play. We believe that in pursuing these aims we can bring benefits to children and adults alike.”  – Paul Robinson, Director Children’s Services

Please take a look at the FLICKR link on the right where I’ve scanned a map and listing of One O’clock Centres, Adventure Playgrounds, Activity Centres and After School Care locations.

London with Kids… Rain or Shine on Travel Mamas!

I’m delighted to share my featured guest post on Travel Mamas! 

Hope you enjoy the read!

Emporio Sao Paulo (update)

Take a look at their new website which includes photos of their playroom (downstairs).  You can also view sample menus offered for adults as well as the full range of organic foods sold for kids.

Common Ground Cafe Bar

This is a perfect spot for both parents and children.  The Common Ground is nestled in Wandsworth Common just off Dorlcote Road.  It’s a cafe/bar which means they serve anything from a cup of tea to bottled beer or a glass of wine.  I have yet to try any of their menu items but by the way it looks everyone is sure to find something to cut their appetite.  Inside there are tables in the front of house and in the back as well as outside.  What’s really cool is that they also supply kids with toys such as activity cubes and building blocks.  Clever if you ask me.  They also have a class schedule offering Action Amanda activities throughout the week for babies and toddlers on Monday, Tuesday and Thursday (best suitable from 6 months to 4 years old).   On Wednesday they have a Blueberry Playsong session for babies over 12 months old, ideal for those babies who love music!  And after a session of play take your little one to the playground just a few feet away!

Emporio Sao Paulo

We always have a good time at Emporio Sao Paulo.  The staff is super friendly and the space is perfect for our little ones to play and crawl around.  They serve a selection of Brazilian breads and desserts as well as salads, pastries and other foods.  Also for retail is a wide selection of children’s food such as Hipp Organic.  I have been told that they will also start serving their own freshly made organic food for children.  It’s been a while since I’ve been there so will update on whether or not they’ve begun making it yet.  If they have, it will be fantastic.  The play area is located on the lower level with plenty of toys to keep the children entertained and enough highchairs for mealtime.  It doesn’t get overly crowded which is why we like it so much.  Furthermore, it’s located in a predominantly residential area (Parsons Green)  which makes it safe and pleasant to walk to.   One of my favorite finds thus far!

Eddie Catz

There are two Eddie Catz locations, one in Putney (right off the High St.) and the other in Wimbledon (near Colliers Wood).  There’s an enclosed soft play area for babies and toddlers and a separate section for those aged 3 – 1o years old.  Older kids can enjoy playing in the multi-tiered playframe or have a go at a game of air hockey.  Other video games are available too.  In addition, they offer classes, workshops and events nearly everyday such as “Let’s Dance” for those 5 – 10 years old.  They host parties during the holiday season so be sure to check out their monthly schedule.  The Eddie Catz play area in Putney is located on a 1st floor walk up so be sure to pack light.

Crumpet

Located in the middle of Northcote Road, this is by far one of the hot spots in Clapham.  Crumpet is ideal for those wanting a latte, sandwich, scone or a cup of one of their wonderful selection of own blended teas.  And, heck, why not stop in one day and treat yourself to an afternoon of Champagne Tea!   There’s a play area in the rear and a space to park your buggy.  I’m sure if you live in or around the area, you’ve been here at least once.  Great place to host a party too.

Gambado

Located in the heart of Chelsea Harbor, Gambado is a kid’s dream come true with play areas suitable from 0 – 10 years old.  There is a one off registration fee of £5 per family and yearly individual or family passes available.  Inside you’ll find a cafe, soft play area, slides, carousel and more.  Surely, your little one will need a nap after hours of play!  Also note that there are locations in Beckenham and Watford.  Reservations highly recommended due its popularity.