4 ways to help Seasonal Affective Disorder

Hey readers,

The days are so gloomy and dark that they can really influence your mood and impact your day. During the winter months, a lot of people experience a seasonal condition called Seasonal Affective Disorder.

What is a Seasonal Affective Disorder?

It is a condition that happens during the dark, cold short days and the long nights during Winter. When you experience not a lot of light it can really suck all your energy out of you. Suffers have also expressed feels of lethargic, low libido and restless sleep.

There is a theory to support Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) when the light goes into the eyes it can react to the hormones in your body which affects your mood. Hence why people feel much more cheerful when the sun comes out to play.
Another theory is that suffers from SAD when experiencing lack of daylight and shorter days will produce higher levels of melatonin which makes them feel lethargic

One in 15 people in the UK is known to suffer from SAD.

Of course, if you are feeling depressed then the first port of call would be to go and speak to your GP to get the right professional support needed to tackling SAD.

Tips to help SAD.

1. SAD lamps.

You probably have seen Sad lamps that specialise in producing a lamp that mimics daylight. 

Apparently having the light that feels like outdoor light has been able to help suffers from SAD feel better.

These light boxes are aimed to help with light therapy were the individual sitting in front of the light for 30 minutes say will help them feel better in their body and mind with having exposure to light during the winter months.

There is a variety of light boxes now on the market and there are even ones that can work with your alarm clock that gradually build light into the room making it much more manageable to get up in the dark winter mornings.

2. Diet.

Food is energy and it is important to have the right food for keeping your energy levels high. Reduce the amount of sugar in your diet and opt for fish, fruit and vegetables.

3. Vitamin supplements.

People who suffer from SAD have reported that taking vitamin B12 and vitamin D has also helped with their mood.

4. Outdoors.

Sometimes going outdoors even though it is cold can do wonders for your mood.

It is a great way of getting some exercise in and blowing the cobwebs off.

Wrap up warm and see the beauty that nature has to offer. 

Incorporating 30 minutes exercise a day can help produce the feel-good chemicals such as serotonin so it will enhance your mood. Going outdoors will also allow you to get the natural outdoor light as well as an added benefit for exercising outdoors.

What things help you beat the winter blues?

Cheers for reading X

10 things that make me happy right now.

Hey readers,

January is a funny old month, it can be a bit miserable and a wet month where you skint and a bit fatter. so I thought to cheer myself up I am going to write about currently things that make me happy during the January month.

1. This Christmas I got my favourite presents which is my beloved rainbow and glitter lava lamp which I love dearly. Not only is my lava lamp really pretty but it helps me calm me down when I am having a meltdown because of my autism. I love watching the glitter as it is so calming the way the glitter swirls around.

2. I am so grateful for routine especially after Christmas and new year holiday where everything seems to go out the window and can be a bit much. Routine helps give me that calmness and order that makes me feel safe and less anxious.

3. even though it is cold and bleugh I enjoy winter walks where the frost is twinkling on the floor and you get a cold nose. u like being in the open and helps my mental health a lot. not to mention it burns off kids excessive energy that they have.

4. photograph helps give me focus and allows me to dip into my creative side. I enjoy experimenting and learning through trial and error. photography gets me excited and looking for something fun that captures my eye.

5. during the colder months I love nothing and better then to snuggle in my head with my heated blanket on full blast. especially we. you look out of the window and it is all grey, this is the ultimate cosy for me.

6. I do love a good old book to get lost in. I partial to a psychological thriller because the suspense keeps me going and wanting to read more.

7. I love cups of tea during winter, there is just something lovely about wrapping your hands around a hot brew and breathing in the warmth from the stream.

8. Cuddles from my boys and the fact that they love me even though I am flawed they see the good in me. To have that love unconditional is a gift in its self especially when I am feeling sad I hold on to that love a little bit harder.

9. Hot showers are bliss especially when you have burning red skin. When you go out in the cold and it takes you ages to get warm to then have that shower to warm you all over is bliss. Followed by getting to my warm pyjamas is heavenly for me, it is the small things really.

10. Finally, my last favourite thing I have been enjoying in January is throws and I am really fluffy and soft. I love snuggling down in the evening, the only downfall is that I don't want to anything other than veg out.

What kind of things tickles your pickle in January? I would love to hear your thoughts.

Cheers for reading X

my biggest pet peeves

Hey readers,

This post is going to be a rant about all the little things that niggle me and that wish I could just ban them from happening.

Loud cheers.

My biggest pet peeve ever is when people eat loudly, especially with food like crisps on a bus where I can not escape. Or if I am at the library on a computer writing blog posts and all I can hear is the loudly chomping, it infuriates me beyond belief.

Husband snoring.

When my husband snores so frigging loudly and even if I push him in the back he seems to be unresponsive. It is SO loud and I literally just stare at the ceiling causing my husband under my breathe.

Being late.

I hate being late it sets off my anxiety. I would rather be early and wait then fear of being on the spot and the attention on me. I have social anxiety and it is one of my biggest fears. Ironically my husband is much more laid back then me and happens to 99.9% cutting it fine to get to places.

Slow walkers.

You know them types the people that walk ridiculously slow in front of you and then they have the check to move about when you try to pass them and hurry alone. It is like they have eyes in the pack of their heads or something.

Line cutters.

You know the people that think the rules don't apply to them and feel that they can do as they please and skin in the line regardless of anyone else who has taken ages waiting.

Kids talking over you.

Bloody kids talking over you when you are mid-sentence and then they shout so no one knows what is happening or what to do next as you lose your train of thought.

Car indicators.

Why do we have indicators in cars to show others what they are planning to do on the road not only for car drivers but also pedestrians who want to cross the road say? We may as well get rid of them and live in chaos.

Napkins.

When people take a handful of napkins from an eatery and they intend to use only one. What a waste and why did they need to take a handful why not one.

Dog poop.

You are walking somewhere and you spot a dog having a poo and the owner than with no care in the world not bother to clean up after them, absolutely disgusting and no respect for others at all.

Car park spaces.

When people take up to car spaces when they clearly use one but are just selfish and don't think of others.

Loud noise.

When people purposely whack up the volume of the phone and blast their music on public transport and don't bother to even have headphones. They just don't care for the fact that maybe not everyone wants to listen to your rubbish music.

What pet peeves rile you up the wrong way?

Cheers for reading X

my Sunday Photo 06/01/2019

The cheesiest of pick up lines.

Hey readers,

I thought for a laugh I would write a list of the worst pick up lines ever, enjoy!

8 Planets, 1 Universe, 1.735 billion people, and I end up with you.

Call me Shrek because I’m head ogre heels for you.

Do you have 11 protons? Because you’re sodium fine!

“Did you just fart? Because you blow me away!”

It’s handy that I have my library card because I’m totally checking you out.

Do you have a Band-Aid? ‘Cause I scraped my knee falling for you.

please call an ambulance your beauty I'd killing me.

I'm not a photographer, but I can picture me and you together.

If you were a vegetable you'd be a cute-cumber.

Are you an interior decorator? Because when I saw you, the entire room became beautiful.

Let me tie your shoes, cause I don't want you falling for anyone else.

Are you an omelette? Because you're making me egg-cited!

Did you sit in a pile of sugar? Cause you have a pretty sweet ass.

Do you have a pencil? Cause I want to erase your past and write our future.

Do you know what my shirt is made of? Boyfriend material.

"Do you have an ugly boyfriend? No? Want one?"

You must be a banana because I find you a peeling.

On a scale from 1 to 10, you're a 9 and I'm the 1 you need.

You can call me Nemo because I'm never afraid to touch the butt.

I might as well call you 'Google' because you're everything I've been searching for.

Did the sun just come out or did you just smile at me?

Can I have your picture so I can show Santa what I want for Christmas?

If you stood in front of a mirror and held up 11 roses, you would see 12 of the most beautiful things in the world.

Can I follow you? Cause my mom told me to follow my dreams.

I value my breath so it would be nice if you didn't take it away every time you walked past.

I without you is like a nerd without braces, A shoe without laces, aSentenceWithoutSpaces.

Do you want to play house with me?

You can be the front door, and I'll slam you until sunrise.

Hey girl, feel my sweater. Know what it's made of?

Boyfriend material.

You make me wanna go inside your wine cabinet and pull myself out a stiff one.

I want you to know something but I'm too scared to tell you in person. So I'll just let the first 3 words of this sentence say it for me.

Is your dad a military general? Because when you walked by, my privates snapped to attention.

If you were a triangle you'd be acute one!

Sorry, it took me so long to message, I was at Whole Foods trying to figure out what you like for breakfast.

What's a smart attractive man like myself doing without your phone number?

What is your favourite pick up line?

Cheers for reading X

How to help your child do well at school.

Hey readers,

Now that my children are of school age one of the main goals as a parent is to try and help them do well at school. So, what do you do to achieve that, well the suggestions below are opinion and you can take them on board or not bother? I am no expert I just wanted to share my view on this subject matter.

Parents evening.

Going to parents evening is so important for you to build a relationship with your child's teacher. It is an opportunity to understand how your child is performing, how they get on at school and areas where you can help at home to improve your child's learning.

Homework.

Now that your child is at school you will find that homework is sadly something that is now required. The best thing you can do is try to encourage your child to do their homework and follow the requirements.

Positive attitude.

A way to help build confidence in children especially with helping them grow with their learning is to have a positive attitude to your child about their education. Making sure you praise your child when they have achieved something or done well in their learning.

Mistakes.

Remember it is ok for your child to make mistakes because that is the way that we learn. Sometimes getting something wrong helps we understand the reasons behind the answers.

Study skills.

Encourage your child to study and reinforce why learning is good and the benefits of it in the long term for your child's future.

Homework routine.

I know as a parent when your child receives lots of different tasks for their homework it can be a daunting prospect of getting your child motivated and getting the homework done. That is why I think when looking at homework breaking it down so that it is achievable and not because added stress with the pressure to get it done all in one go. I think it is important to break down the homework so that the child can do small chunks every day so it is not daunting for your child. Routine is key in achieving a positive environment when it comes to homework.

Relax.

I will be the first to admit it that when my eldest first started to bring homework home I wanted it done the second he got home and I got very stressed out about it when it didn’t go to plan. This was a hostile environment and not good for the whole family to be in. I have learnt however that not rushing to get the homework down is vital. Allowing your child time when they get home from school and the weekend to relax and unwind. It is much better for your child to be calm when under pressure to get the work done. The quality as well when relaxed vs stressed is a huge difference. Ironically you save time as the child will willingly just get on with the homework and not be argumentative.

Sleep.

Sleep is so important to helping a child learn. Having the energy to listen and learn are key factors in achieving well in school.  Making sure that your child gets enough sleep and having a set time each night that goes to bed will help create a positive routine in a child’s life. Making sure the child is relaxed and doing calm activities before bed such as reading.

Cheers for reading X

10 reasons why sleep is important.

Hey readers,

Sleep is so important to your wellbeing and helps recharge your batteries. I have given more reasons below on why sleep is so important for you.

Helps with concentration and productivity.

When you have a good night sleep you have more productive because you have more energy to do the things you want to do. Likewise, with concentration, you have more patience because you have more energy to focus on the things you want to do. Therefore you can spend more time doing a task and getting it right without making mistakes because you are sleep deprived.

Improves immune function.

With sleep it allows your body to respond to the requests needed instead of trying to manage with the lack of sleep. Sleep deprivation suppresses the immune system, therefore, more at risk of getting ill if your body is not working accordingly.

Boast memory.

When you have adequate sleep it allows your brain to be able to focus on information rather than trying to keep your body awake due to lack of sleep. It means less time needed to work on remembering the information which in turn means you can hold on to the information into your brain.

Stay alert.

When you have sleep it allows you to stay alert and on top of what you are doing be used again, you have more energy and not trying to fight the tiredness that you have lost due to not getting the right amount of sleep.

Better health.

With getting sleep allows the body to have the energy to make the body function correctly. An example of this would be heart circulation and getting the blood to follow correctly to the different parts of the body.

Reaction time.

A positive aspect of getting sleep is that you are more awake and can focus on what you are doing. Therefore your reaction time is better because you are not tired and have a quick to respond to the environment.

Weight loss.

For one you are sleep and less time means you don't need more food to compensate for energy. When you are tired and you are more likely to be tempted to go to sugar and high fats because it is faster to get quick energy to manage the tiredness. Consequently means you are using more calories than recommended, therefore, putting on weight.

Reduces stress.

Getting a good nights rest can help you control and regulate your emotions. If you're tired you don't have the time to rationalise which can cause you to get stressed.

Less pain.

It is proven that lack of sleep can cause more pain. If you on the go for long periods tour muscles need to rest however they are still working longer then needed causing pain for the person lacking in sleep.

Decision making.

With having sleep you can have a rest and give your brain time to have a break from thinking and doing physical things with the brain. When you are sleep deprived you can't concentrate and therefore struggle to reason correctly.

Cheers for reading X

How to motivate yourself in the winter mornings.

Hey readers,

It can be hard to get motivated during the colder months because all you want to do is hibernate especially when it is so dark and cold outside. How do you get motivated during the winter mornings?

Brace yourself.

I know for me I get so overwhelmed with how much I have to do that I then go on to procrastinate because it is easier to hide away than to deal with the endless things I have to do. One way overcoming this is to be ace myself and break down what I have to do.
I focus on what is essential and then do something that I dread. I know that if I can't complete it all I can do it next goal when I have some time. This helps me feel like I am in control and have a plan of action to calm down my thoughts.

Plan.

The night before I go to bed I write down my schedule of things I have to do therefore I am ready and don't have to panic about everything. It is clearly written down and I know what I have to do.

Set alarm.

I find it better to set my alarm 10 minutes early as I can have quiet time to enjoy my hot drink and it sets me up for the day. Having that extra time means I don't have to rush around and get stressed about time. It makes a huge difference in being calm that it can make your day feel smoother.

Exercise.

I hate the thought of exercising in the morning but once I get a workout done I feel so much better. It really does me good mentally and physically. I feel much more energised and funny enough it helps get more stuff done because of my energy levels being heightened through exercise.

Early night.

Making sure you get plenty of sleep is important. Being conscious of getting to bed early will really beneficial with how productive you are in the morning.

Routines.

Establishing a routine where you go to bed and get up early will soon become second nature if you are consisting of your routine. The more you keep at keeping up with your routine will, in the end, pay off as your body will turn it into a habit and in turn will make it easy for you to continue doing what you are doing.

Breakfast.

As they say, breakfast is the most important meal of the day, it sets you and provides energy after you have had a long sleep at night. Food is great in providing energy to concentrate on the work that needs to be done.

Goals.

When trying to complete your work that needs to be done in the morning focus first on the task that is most important to you. Getting that job done straightaway means you can relax a bit after and it will a lot easier to do the other tasks once the bigger one has been completed.

What strategies help you kick-start productivity in the morning?

Cheers for reading X

how to deal with Impostor Syndrome

Hey readers,

Do you feel a fraud by your achievements? that you somehow you are not worthy of the work that you have achieved? Well, this phenomenon is called Impostor syndrome and it is very common indeed. But how do you deal with this? well, let me give you some ways to help deal with imposter syndrome below.

Awareness.

Like everything I guess the starter point would be to acknowledge how you are feeling and that these feelings are a result of Impostor Syndrome. Awareness is a valuable skill in recognising the way you respond to your achievements, so the first step in dealing with Impostor Syndrome.

Open.

Being open and upfront about how you feel towards your achievements with others can be valuable because you can connect with other people who feel similar. You can also seek out help and knowledge from others who have experienced Impostor syndrome and how they have overcome the feelings that they once felt.

Accepting.

One way of facing Impostor Syndrome is accepting the achievements you have achieved and appreciate the work that you have put in. Challenge the thoughts even writing down the original thought and replacing it with a positive can help change that faulty thinking pattern.

Focus on yourself.

With Impostor Syndrome comes low confidence in yourself and one of the worst things you can do is compare yourself to others. You need to let go of thinking why you couldn't reach the level of success that so and so has achieved. Acknowledging that your success is good enough, no one is perfect and you worked dame hard to get where you have reached. Let's face it we are all on our own journey.

Feedback.

One of the things that I have noticed through my own experience of Impostor Syndrome is that I downplay any positive praise that I receive. I instantly reply with a negative and the one way to help grow your confidence and kick Impostor Syndrome is to accept praise for what it is. You don't justify it but say thank you. You don't need to deny the feedback, own it, it is yours.

Mindfulness.

Mindfulness is a way to train your brain to appreciate the moment and not focus on what you do not have. It is kind of like focusing on the positives as it can be very easy to notice the negatives that have occurred.

Choice.

Remember you have the power to choose what you want to listen to and take it on board. It is only relevant if you put that importance on to it. You can choose to take it or leave it, you are in control of your thoughts.

Encouragement.

Get into the habit of praising yourself - be your own personal supporter, write down the positives. Be kind to yourself and allow yourself to feel good about your achievements. It is ok to feel good about the work you have achieved it doesn't make you big headed because at the end of the day you worked hard to achieve your success so why not celebrate it.

Cheers for reading X

6 places to find cheap books.

Hey readers,

I love reading and I'm always looking for cheap ways of getting books or buying them. It can be a struggle but there's no need to spend a fortune on buying books if you look in the right places you will find cheap ways of getting your hands on books. Let me tell you some of the places you can try that have been successful for me in finding cheap books below.

1. Local library.

The most obvious place to start for looking for books is the local library, as they have a wide selection of different types of books you can take out on loan and are free. I have taking out loads of books on loan so you have to return them in the past from for my library. It has been so helpful in saving me money going to my library as there is so much choice for instance recipe books, craft books for kids and fiction books to lose myself in.

2. Second-hand shops.

As good as the library is for a wide selection of books sometimes the library does not have the title in. That is why it's good to check out the local charity shop to see if there are pre-loved books that you want but you can't find anywhere else. The books from charity shops are cheap and cheerful and normally absolutely fine to read at a low cost. Also after I finished a book that I bought from the charity shop I normally give it to my local library so that someone else can enjoy it and share the love through that way.

3. eBay / Amazon.

Online there are plenty of places that sell cheap books compared to say Waterstones and two of the most popular sites are eBay and Amazon. I'm not sure if you are aware but not only does Amazon sell brand spanking new books they also sell used books, so do check that option out as well because you can get somebody else with that way. Likewise, with eBay, they sell cheaper books especially ones that are a bit rarer at a reasonable cost.

4. E-reader.

Another option is to download an e-reader app so you don't have to spend loads on an e-reader and you can find cheap eBooks through the e-reader app itself.

5. Comparison sites.

To find the best book deal price check out this brilliant website called Best Book Price which compares the cheapest place to get a book. Some of the types compared are eBay, Amazon WHSmith and various other book internet sites that you can buy books from.

6. The Works.

The Works is another good shop where you can buy books from, whether it be fiction or nonfiction. They also do regular book deals such as 6 fiction books for £10 or 10 children books for £10. Another great feature is that you can order books online or pick them up in a store. Which I prefer to look in the shop as you can physically touch them and see all the books together to choose from.

Cheers for reading X

I am cool with my boys wearing dresses.

Hey readers,

My son last week started year two at school. During year one in the summer term, he decided he wanted to wear a dress. I and my husband said yes we have no problem with him wearing a dress.

 He loves it even though his school friends ask him why. That is fine because kids are curious and I can tell you after the novelty they soon weren't bothered at all. I also want to say at any time he can choose to change as he has a spare shorts and tee-shirt in his bag.

Now that my youngest who also is a boy started school last week has also asked to wear a dress, he asked we said yes. Now both my boys wear dresses at school.

I have no problem with my boys wearing dresses, trousers, shorts whatever. I don't see why people get so cut about it. Surely boys should have the exact same freedom as girls and vice versa. I think it is a shame that society is fixated on having to separate girls and boys because really there is no need, it is just beyond silly.

 I think if we stopped trying to fit out kids into boxes then there would be fewer problems in the world.  Like the old saying goes let kids be kids.

I believe as a parent my children can make their own choices, the only limit is obviously money otherwise go ahead chose what you want to be. I want them to have opportunities to express themselves and be their own person regardless of their gender.

 To me, if I didn't let him wear the dress I deem that as sexist. Just because he is a boy he can't wear it, why not?... let's face it these gender divisions came from people's attitudes that is all it is.

Do you know who got offended by my son wearing a school dress at school.... I can tell you this it certainly was not the children but the parents making a complaint. That speaks volumes really because children don't care normally unless the family members have drilled it into them that this and that is wrong because you are a boy or a girl.

However, the problem of gender stereotypes doesn't just happen with family and friends it goes deeper into society with the media that perpetuities these gender ideas of what is deemed the norm. Remember there was a time when girls could not wear trousers at school and now it is perfectly fine in most schools.

We Need to stop trying to make gender, it is fluid and kids need to be free to make their own choices and express themselves. It is the sexism in society that holds children back and causes problems with them not feeling good because they are a boy or girl. 

Why are people so focused on what gender you are. Surely we should focus on the individual and want they can offer rather than the fact my son is a boy and therefore can not wear dresses, it is just completely absurd you ask me. We need to change our attitudes by not focusing on if the child is a boy or girl but allowing kids to be free to be whoever they chose to be.

Cheers for reading X

Inflata Nation Theme Park Birmingham Review

Hey readers,

We were lucky enough to test out Inflata Nation in Birmingham, of course, I said yes because I know that my boys would love it.

So, what is Inflata Nation Theme Park?

Inflata nation theme park is a family day out attraction and is indoors. It comprises of inflatable activities in a huge indoor arena - therefore doesn't matter what the whether anyone can bounce and have fun. At the location, there are many activities for any age or size to enjoy.

Attractions.

Inflata Wreck - Not for the faint-hearted, our multi-person giant inflatable wrecking ball game.

Inflata Grab - Stretch that bungee cord to see how many balls you can collect. A real-life multi-person human version of Hungry Hippos.

Inflata Duo - A giant dual lane drop slide, that you can enjoy with friends.

Inflata Tots - Only for our under 4’s, a dedicated arena with lots of fun features, including slide & ball pool.

Inflata Drop - Try this jaw-dropping inflatable slide and land in a giant ball pool.

Inflata Wall - Take on the wall and you'll be scaling our giant inflatable climbing wall, on your own or with friends.

Inflata Race - Who will be the first to complete the two-lane assault course?

Inflata Bubbles - A large extra bouncy ‘bubble’ area, when all you want to do is a bounce.

Inflata Bash - Air filled inflatable pillars that you can bash around.

Inflata Duel -  A wibbly wobbly gladiator duel platform. Will you win the dual or take a tumble onto the giant airbag below?

However, if you want to sit back and just watch your children play then there is the cafe offering homemade food and drinks. There is also stairs and more seating and it overlooks over the whole arena.  Let's not forgot to mention there is free WIFI, whoop!

The inflata nation theme park is currently open at Birmingham, Manchester, Cheshire, Beverley and Glasgow.

Getting tickets to Inflata nation is easy to navigate on the website and also get confirmation booking - where you can print off your receipts. Also, bear in mind that you have to sign a weaver - now you can print the form off and sign it (we did this to save time) or you can fill in the paperwork at the premises.

Once you have handed over the tickets to the front desk on the right-hand side when you get into the doors. You will have a wristband to say you have paid and each one of you gets one.

Then you have to go down a hall on the right where you watch the video on the things you can and not do such as no flips between the balls.

The very short safety video is permanently running so even if you are, let's say seven minutes late then you only lose seven minutes play, unlike other similar venues that only play their safety videos every half an hour.

Once you have done that there is a shoe rack where you can store your shoes or alternatively there are lockers which require a pound. There is also electronic ones that you can pay by your bank. However, I used the pound coin ones so not entirely sure how the electronic lockers work.

It is important to make sure that children and adults were long sleeved tops, trousers and socks when entering the arena.

The sessions last for an hour however you can add time if you want to.

Cost.

Under 4's - £5.95 (1hr) / +1hr - £3.

Age 4-15 - £9.95 (1hr) - +1hr - £7.

Adult - £9.95 (1hr) - +1hr - £7.

There are also exercise classes, disability sessions and birthday parties - check out the website to find out more information.

Inflata Nation is open 364 days a year (except for Christmas Day).

Address.

The address is;

Unit E,

Stechford Retail Park,

Flaxley Pkwy,

Birmingham,

B33 9AN.

Opening times.

Monday - Thursday: 12 pm – 8 pm

Friday: 12 pm -9 pm

Saturday: 9 am – 9 pm

Sunday: 10 am – 8 pm

During school holiday periods, we are open from 10 am Monday – Sunday!

It can get very busy so probably best to book tickets online beforehand so you won't get disappointed.

Overall.

It was a really enjoyable experience for the whole family to enjoy together on a day out. I thought one hour was adequate time to enjoy as both my boys started to get tired at the end and very sweaty.

The staff were really friendly and helpful. the place felt safe and secure. The tables and toilet area were clean.

The rooms were bright and the decor I thought was fun and playful.

Overall a great experience  - 10/10 :)

Here is a video below so you can get a feel of the place.

Cheers for reading. X

This is an advertorial feature - I was gifted tickets for me and my family to go to Inflata Nation in Birmingham in exchange for a review. All opinions expressed are entirely my own. 

Review of Legoland Discovery Centre Birmingham.

Hey readers,

The other day we went on a family day out to Legoland discovery centre in Birmingham.

The attraction is located.

LEGOLAND® Discovery Centre Birmingham will be based at Arena Birmingham (opposite The National SEA LIFE Centre Birmingham).

King Edwards Rd, Birmingham B1 2AA

Opening times.

Weekends: 10am - 7pm (last admission to the attraction at 5pm).

Weekdays: 10am - 5pm (Last admission to the attraction at 3pm).

Cost of attraction.

£15 pp online or £20 pp pay at the desk.

After you sort out tickets at the reception desk you then go into the area near the lift, you will then get photos which are put onto a Lego background which when you go further into the centre you have the option to buy them if you want to.

Kingdom Quest.

Next, you go into the lift and down a level where you begin the fun. The first thing to do if you want to the ride where you go on a boat around an area where you have to play guns where you can hit targets to win points. This was really fun and we all really enjoyed taken part in that. The ride last for approximately five minutes.

Miniland.

Once you follow down the aisle and then you enter another room which is amazing lego build display covering all the Iconic Birmingham buildings such as The Bull Ring, Cadbury's world and Aston Villa football stadium to name a few. There are also interactive sections where you can spin the wheel and race the boats down the canal.

We went at Christmas time and we had a sheet where we had to find x amount of elves and all the different reindeers dotted about the room - that was good fun to go hunting for them.

The Ultimate Lego Playground.

After exploring that room we moved on to the next room which is the main activity hub. There is a section on the left and focuses on the Lego friend characters with the female friends dotted about the section. There were sections where you can build at the table your own creations or add onto other peoples work that has been left behind.

Of course, no great child attraction would be complete with the soft play which is based on Lego city with the theme of the construction, fire and police centre. Lots of soft padded floor to run around, climb and slide down the slide.

There is a bigger section between the soft play and Lego friends with loads of bricks to make your own creations.

There is an area in the room next to the soft play that has lockers where you can store your items (cost £1) to lock it up. Also, a place where you can leave your pushchairs.

4D cinema.

There is also the 4D cinema with a Lego film based and there are water, air, wind, snow and the feeling of figures coming out of the screen all good fun if you like to feel the experience.

Duplo farm.

There is a section for toddlers to freely play without the fear of them bumping to older children. There are bigger blocks for smaller hands (Duplo), a slide, and a small section where the child can climb and go down a slide safely. There is a big friendly cow that they can sit on and play with.

At the back of the room is another ride where you peddle to make it go up and down - which is a great thrilling ride.

There is also a section where you can build your own lego cars and test them out on the lego tracks with slops that make them go down fast.

There is a table with bricks where you can build buildings and test them out on the wobble board - where you press the button to make the square of land wobble.

Cafe.

There is a cafe in the activity centre area where you can buy cold drinks and Costa hot drinks such as hot chocolate and coffee. There is also lunch sandwich meals if you wish.

There are also toilets in the area to access plus disabled toilets and baby changing section.

Overall.

I was surprised at how long we stayed here - there was plenty to see in different formats. My 5 and 7 year old really enjoyed it especially the mini land and the interaction element.

Of course, they loved running around together in the soft play and also experimenting with the bricks to come up with their own creations. In actual fact, my eldest took part in the festive build to come up with your own design which was a Santa sleigh and won which my eldest was so proud about and he won the reindeer set as a price.

The staff were friendly and helpful. The places were in top form, clean and plenty of bins which I think is a good thing and doesn't make the place look messy.

I definitely recommend it for any child who likes bricks and likes to explore and create.

Cheers of reading X