Looking for something to do with the kids that’s only a bus ride away? Have friends in town that want to go to some museums and you’re at a loss of what to do with your little one? Or simply fancy something different? The Science Museum is super kid friendly and just might be the answer.
Last Friday, we met up with one of our first MVM friends who has since moved away but back in London for the day. We took the 414 bus to the V&A stop and walked around the corner to the Science Museum on Exhibition Road.
Our ‘exhibit’ of choice was The Garden in the basement of the museum. The literature says it’s for 3-6 year olds but it was perfect for our nearly 20 month-olds. There is a lift to the basement and a room where you can park your buggy – all very convenient.
Once we got to The Garden, the little ones’ eyes lit up with excitement as they were greeted by long rubbery yellow pasta-like strips hanging from the ceiling. They played with those, then ran through not knowing where to stop next – tactile objects on the wall to feel, musical sounds to explore, dress up area, wooden blocks, gigantic Lego shapes, and of course the much loved water table.
Afterwards, there is a café and a picnic-style area (if you bring your own lunch) right across from the Garden that is geared towards children. We opted for the more ‘grown-up’ café on the ground level. It was great for our little ones too. They have plenty of high chairs, although the little duo preferred to sit at the table like big boys and girls.
We walked through the ‘Making the Modern World’ exhibit on our way out and the kids were really excited about it. There was tons of pointing and sounds of excitement.
The museum is free – except for certain exhibits – and is open daily from 10am to 6pm.
Have you been? Planning to go? Been to another museum? We’d love to hear about it.
*** The Garden will be closed for essential maintenance on Wednesday, the 2nd of February 2011.***
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I totally agree, I would also like to add that the hall which has the transport exhibits is big hit with my two and a half year old son, with its vintage cars on the walls, a fighter plane hanging from the ceiling and working models of steam engines in display cabinets on the mezzanine floor. These are especially cool because you can press a button to make them start, kids love it!