Review: Smile swimmers

Babies are natural-born swimmers as everyone have been in that water bag for a century of 10 long months! Often parents begin to introduce pool experience when their kids are older, and that might be too late. By that time, kids might fear water as it had been a long way from that vivid memory of floating in the mummy’s mini aquarium.

So we begin to start getting little Noah to have his experience in swimming pools and water playgrounds (Baby spa, Children’s Garden at Gardens by the bay  and Sports hub – surf and splash) since he was 6 months old.

sports hub – surf and splash at level 3!

We’ve tried a fair share of trial swimming lessons at Aqua Bambino and Aqua Ducks while occasionally bringing him to public pools ourselves for some dip. Since then Noah LOVES splashing and kicking water, always vigorously nod his head when we asked ” want to go swim swim?”

Aqua duck trial lesson at 6 months old

SMILE SWIMMERS

This time, we chance upon Smile swimmers and decided to go for a trial nearby our place at Katong Complex. Previously we engaged trials at the Aqua’s but these classes was so far away. The distance was the main concern if we want the little one to wake for classes, it definitely have to be nearby us.

Smile Swimmer’s classes are held by Coach Kidd who used his passion in swimming and embedded into a profession of coaching kids of all ages to swim, learn survival skills as well as to build their confidence.

credits: lifeafternoah | saying Hello to Coach Kidd

Our trial class size was small that day it was raining earlier, which was good as we would have more exclusive attention from the coach!

Lesson 1 – Welcome! let’s get wet! 

Basic Kicking, Paddling, Splashing The aim is to strengthen the leg muscles, moving of their arms and enjoying splashing in the water and grabbing toys

Had a brief introductory from Coach Kidd on what the daddies and mummies are supposed to do. He taught us how to carry the babies in the water, and gave each of us a ball and cup. Which we interact with the Ball to help them in their motor skills development by throwing it far and let the babies waddle over to fetch it. While the Cup is to fill up with water and pour over their little heads, to help them use to being wet.

With songs and guidance Daddy, Derrick followed Coach Kidd to guide Noah in fetching the ball and putting it in the cup.

little Sim wasn’t feeling quite pleased that afternoon as he didn’t have his nap yet, so for the whole lessons he LATCH on to daddy liked a baby koala bear – so do take note to let the babies nap enough before going for lessons!

 Lesson 2 – Let’s go under!

Basic Submerge or Dunking The aim is to learn how to teach your baby how to hold their breath with a cue when going underwater.

Next Coach Kidd told us that babies have natural swimming reflex when you release them in the water, they know how to hold their breath! Cool right, these little humans natural instinct.

Sadly I didn’t manage to snap that moment when Noah went under the water, but he did a good job. no choking or drinking of water (maybe a little la, needs more practice)

And importantly Coach Kidd told us not to embrace them right after the submerge but to carry them at a distance and tell them calmly that they did a great job, which only after a few seconds we can then hold them tight. This is to prevent giving the false impression or wrong signal that something scary happened and you are comforting their fear.

Review of The Polliwogs Play ” The Lion Prince; The Quest for Singapura “

With the whole nation celebrating for our golden jubilee to come next week, The Polliwogs Live and NTUC proudly presents gob-smacking family friendly comedy The Lion Prince ; The Quest For Singapura on 31July – 2 Aug, 4Aug at the NTUC auditorium!

In conjunction with SG50 this year, “The Lion Prince” travel back in time with The Polliwogians to embark on a journey with Prince Sang Nila Utama who gave Singapore her name! Find out how Singapore got her name and unravel the unexpected twist of events during their journey! An epic adventure of courage, friendship and a celebration of The Singapore Spirit! Show highlights include Sand Art Performance and Black Light Theatre!

With much appreciation for THE POLLIWOGS, we were invited to witness the fantastic journey back in time with Matilda the main lead in this show with her fellow polliwogian friends in meeting with the ancient Prince and how they almost change the course of historical events.

credits: Lifeafternoah blog | Matilda with her friends The Polliwogians; Bobby, Larry, Rocky and Poco.

credits: Lifeafternoah blog | Amazing fast forward – sand art performance on stage for the whole show giving us images of what its like in the past!

credits: Lifeafternoah blog | Only Larry and Poco got on to the voyage trip with Matilda due to a horrendous magnetic storm that opened up wormhole to the past.

credits: Lifeafternoah blog | Ta-da! guess who they met when they landed when the magnet storm swapped off their feet and thrown them back in time.

credits: Lifeafternoah blog | They met Prince Sang Nila Utama whom haven’t found Singapura yet.

credits: Lifeafternoah blog | The future time travellers gave the prince courage to face his fears as he wasn’t as courageous as the tale was told. Thru music (Matidla’s headphone) the prince had a vision of how brave his grandfather was.

credits: Lifeafternoah blog | Finally the prince decides to venture into the unknown island – which will become Singapura.

credits: Lifeafternoah blog | We had our 15 mins interval break! And we hopped over to the lobby to check out on the fridge activities for kids!

credits: Lifeafternoah blog | Show reopen with the Polliwogians and Prince Sang Nila Utama on the sampan (boat) towards the island and was attacked by a monster from the sea. What can the prince do to save them?

credits: Lifeafternoah blog | Liked what the tale always said, the prince threw his crown into the sea and the monster was gone. And they reached the shores safely! Look how drained poco was! Larry was definitely feeling a relieved there!

credits: Lifeafternoah blog | Suddenly from the seats came THE LION aka SINGA, and baby Noah was fascinated by the furry animal that he grabbed my hands and there was the blur pic. haha

credits: Lifeafternoah blog | in between the show, we had much fun participating in their dialog when the main leads would look upon us to where the LION was? Kids were screaming on top of their lungs to warn them of the creature lurking behind.

credits: Lifeafternoah blog | Finally as what stories always end – with the help of his friends from the future, the discouraged prince conquered his fears and face the lion with authority and saved everyone. Which gave the kids a very valuable lesson on facing fears and don’t give up because they doubt themselves or due to lack of confident for the future.

img credits: Lifeafternoah blog | And we reached the end of the show where singapura becomes what we are now – Singapore! What a amazing job done by the sand art performance totally put in effort in the visuals.

img credits: Lifeafternoah blog | The Polliwogs and the main leads did a great job in putting up with this education play, which even involved videos of kids ( who won the video competition) to act as the news broadcaster and other characters to make it more realistic.

img credits: Lifeafternoah blog | There goes with the finale credits from all the casts! Including the almighty SINGA!

img credits: Lifeafternoah blog | And last but not least PRINCE sang and Matilda giving their signature pose to thank everyone for attending!

img credits: Lifeafternoah blog | We are definitely looking forward for next year’s play! Thanks The Polliwogs!

Just in case you wish to know more about THE POLLIWOGS – Kids playground, Do drop by their newest outlet at SUNTEC CITY for more fun and activities for your little ones!

The Polliwogs @ Suntec City 

3 Temasek Boulevard, #02-724 to 727 | Tower 4, Suntec City Mall | Singapore 038983 | Tel: 6887 4860

It’s never too hard to Breastfeed for 1 year

That very moment where your little angel comes into your life you will never expect how much they would be liked a slug that cling onto you for life (not in a damaging way. I love my son ok). Or even liked the baby koala so glued to their mummy’s back twenty four seven a day.

Feeding on demand will become your daily (every few mins) mandatory mission. Feed feed feed just to make the baby sleep. Too common that many new mummies just couldn’t handle the excruciating pain of crack bleeding nipples, sudden engorgement or constantly crying babies due to insufficient supply of breast milk and switch to formulas milk which I would discourage any mums in giving up so soon because its really not too difficult to do breast feed your baby.

I’m one of the lucky ones who still currently on going with a fair supply of breast milk because I keep up to the believe of feed On demand and persist on latching. However I still do get my occasions of engorgement and sore tits but I never once gave up latching. Not for 3 months when Baby Noah is teething, not when 6 months when he started solids and especially not even now when he’s turning 1 in a couple of days and having his molar soon!

Feed on the go at 3rd month

Here’s some tips on how to maintain this journey of latching on the go and benefits of doing so.

1) Won’t use what you didn’t buy

In the modern days of having the pump machine so readily available for sale everywhere, we decided not to get one as i’m all in for exclusive breastfeeding. This is not easy but definitely require some determination from the milk supplier. 8 out of 10 friends have a pump or 2 to use, whereas I only know how to direct latch. I don’t have a pump so latching on the go is a definite. I don’t need to worry in freezing the slash, nor warming it when my boy is hungry. I don’t get the often engorgement as much as the rest of my other pumping friends. *touch wood* And I need not worry about spoil milk or temperature as our body naturally adjust the suitable temperature to what our baby needs. It just latch and go!

2) Supporting partner (and families- and I do mean both sides of the family)

Having a supporting husband who make sure he stand by you no matter who say what, is atmost important especially when facing the older generation of – formula milk can make baby feel more fuller and sleep better. Babies cries or not sleeping well would make grandparents often interpret it as baby is not full from your earlier on latching thus the extra bottle of formula milk …  Your partner and family members should be educate by lactation consultant when you are in the hospital for labor. Be aware that breast milk are suppose to be easily absorbed to put less pressure in the little stomach. In which they will be hungry more easily than drinking formulas. So make sure they get knowledge of how bm work even before you go into labor ok! Many maternity seminar talks are available in hospital, do check individual hospital to know about services breastfeeding before you even give birth.

You may join this website or even join the BREASTFEEDING MUMs Facebook group for more details on getting the support you need for breastfeeding.

3) pamper your twins (tits)

I spend my whole confinement and after latching and latching, changing breasts and latch until baby Noah enters his lala land satisfied. For the first few days I admitted that it was rather tough especially to some mums whose milk haven’t kick in, and having to endure all your family members questioning the existence of your supply is even more degrading. Be firm and believe in your twins (tits), and don’t forget to pamper them. Right after latching, my husband would help me to take out my freezing lollipop (for night use those giant sized) sanitary pad ( which was prepared by soaking it under the tap water and keep it frozen in a zip lock bag – this was taught by a nurse to my hubby after i gave birth) to cool down the twins from the over usage of feeding my son. I also refrained from using soap on my twins when cleaning up during confinement, as it might become dry after washing too much. Personally I don’t quite trust any nipple cream as i fear not knowing what would end up in my son’s mouth, so its just “cooling” my twins and make sure i get a good latch on.

Still feeding on demand

4) Latch well 

This is most important of all as babies are all depending on you for their nutrients, I also don’t put my beliefs in giving formula as they might alter the little guts, and we have it natural why waste the money in getting a can that costs $50-$70 that only last 3 months plus? So make sure your little darling open wide their mouth, tit head and their chin touch your breast first. Once attached, give them a little nudge to latch all the way in as the inner portion of their gum is the softest and you won’t feel any pain.

5) Mum’s choice

What I chose for them is the key factor to all the above, if you chose not to go thru breastfeeding then there’s nothing much i can advice. Which i truly believe you know what is suitable for your household, as i have a doting hubby and supporting parents who gave me the chance to stay at home with our darling boy so we needn’t to worry about me going back to work. With my determination of feed on demand ( when baby has the urge to go to my breast I will latch him) my supply reach to the point where just one side feeding is enough to make him sleep well. Anywhere i go he goes too, which will be tiring to some woman whom needs a break at time i stand by him all thru the night and day. All boils down to a commitment to provide him the best i can.

For one whole year, my son has been on the 100 and above percentile chart and he is a healthy and happy little darling. In hope for some day he would know how much his mum give up to give him the liquid gold that would boost his health and brain development. Even when he is teething with all those biting and pulling, i persist on because this is my commitment to him, and so can you!

Having problem latching on? You may contact me at liangkuanyu@gmail.com or

are you also liked me who breastfeed exclusively, please feel free to  share your own experience in the below comment form too!

May you enjoy this precious moment in your life as it will all be worth while.

Love,

Ruby

My Reviews on New Majestic Hotel, with FamilyStaycationSg.com

A night away from home and work shouldn’t be snugging in bed of a hotel room and ordering room service at midnight, or at least somehow to me it shouldn’t be. The idea of Staycation in Singapore for the recent years prospered towards affordability, Instagram worthy as well as equipped with a bucket list of visits around the hotel/resort.

In the hot summer mid-day, we set foot into New Majestic hotel situated in a heritage conservation shop house at 31 Bukit Pasoh. We were warmly greeted by their friendly staff at the open concept period- inspired lobby, co-existing many of our traditional local culture such as signature trishaw and the rusty iron table fan by the corner.

image credits: Lifeafternoah.wordpress

Located at the heart of Chinatown || image credits: Lifeafternoah.wordpress

image credits: Lifeafternoah.wordpress

Baby Noah blending in the strong design of New Majestic lobby with his #thuglife pose. || image credit: Lifeafternoah.wordpress

Baby Noah hopping on for a ride on the trishaw! || image credit: Lifeafternoah.wordpress

While the dramatic pool with glass inserts floating above the stairway up to the swimming pool on the second level blown our sensory away, it dazzled us more as a living heritage of modern art and design rather than another hotel. So you bet the rooms are definitely going to be much more interesting!

Lobby stairway up to their swimming pool || image credits: Lifeafternoah.worpress

New majestic restaurant || image credit: lifeafternoah.wordpress1`

We were led up to their unique design rooms (whole building had only 4 levels). Mind you, in total they have 30 different rooms. All of which features its own “Not going see them twice” design, yet still having a good mixture of vintage and designer furniture along with their customized baths. Room highlights include suites with private gardens, attic style rooms with loft beds in six-meter high ceilings. Can anyone see the vintage barber chair behind the stairs? That’s also one of their feature in all 3 of the unlimited collection group hotel rooms. (Hotel 1929 & Wanderlust)

Attic suites with Loft beds || image credits: James liang, Studio Concept

Another Attic suite with loft beds, takes the shape of our Singapore flag piece together by the traditional Chinese wedding Letter “xi”, it’s more popular among couples for Solemnization ceremony or wedding party. Very chic right! Everyone should consider celebrating your national day here!

Samsui suite || image credits : James Liang, Studio Concept

Image credit: New majestic hotel

We were invited to the MIRROR room with the only IRON CAST bathtub in the whole hotel. Baby Noah was amazed by all the reflections he saw of himself when he looked up and around. As you may draw open the curtains on both side to enjoy the continuous ribbon of mirrors all the way to the ceiling and ground – “Watch and be watched”!

Watched and Be watched || Image credits to James Liang, Studio Concept

Settling in, we went to the next room – The Aqua room, why aqua? well obviously …..all because it’s designed liked an life size aquarium (bath tub) over seeing the whole sleeping area, balcony and view beyond. Can you spot a little fat merman in the central glass-encased bath tub?

Interestingly featuring 2 similar rooms beside each other yet one of more masculine and another feminine feel which can be differentiate from the design on their wall. Great for staycation with friends  to have their Instagram worthy moments with both rooms!

image credits: James Liang, Studio Concept

The Aqua room || image credits : James Liang, Studio concept

The Aqua room || image credits : James Liang, Studio concept

Personally I Love this room in particular because there is an outdoor bathtub here! Kids and ME would definitely love the space out in this garden room! With this open air space you definitely feel like in your own villa.

And what the best perk is that New Majestic is one of the selected boutique hotels providing high quality Kiehl’s products for their guests. *shhh* I would really need some use of their lavender bath with sea salt for some really good scrub and soaking the.. whole.. day……

Premier Garden Room : One day I Slowly Floated Away || Image credit: New Majestic Hotel

Swimming pool at 2nd level || Image credits: New Majestic hotel

With all that said, we made our way down for a peek at their swimming pool right beside their gym area,  was a depth of 1.5 meters pool. Awesome for kids to have their fun in the pool during the day. Who would go home after all these experience in this chic Hotel? I would definitely hope for a break away soon and instead of the usual luxurious urban hotels, i may just even more be more pampered in this stunning boutique hotel.

image credits: New Majestic hotel

I believe all of you have been waiting for this…..

Exclusive 15% off Best Available Rates for Family Staycation SG readers::

(Join our Facebook Family Staycation sg group & Like our page to enjoy this exclusive promo, details will be shown below**)

Applies with the following terms & condition:

• All rates are based per night, subject to 10% service charge and 7% GST
• All rates are inclusive of breakfast, WiFi access, local calls, non-alcoholic beverages from the minibar, and usage of handy Smart Phone.
• All guests will be entitled to welcome drinks :Singapore Slings
• Special amenities will be provided for kids under 5 year old.
• The rates would be valid till 31 December (Thursday), 2015 (please be advised that these rates are not applicable during peak periods which the hotel industry deems as high season).
• All other terms & conditions would be advised at time of reservation.
• 15% OFF total bill from in-house restaurant: New Majestic Restaurant

*Above T&C applies for only in-house guest

Click here to book directly from New Majestic Hotel and to find out more about their happenings around when you book a stay with them. 

** Type in special code in the promo code input box when booking of hotel rooms. The special code will be posted on Familystaycationsg Facebook page; to enjoy the above offers from New Majestic Hotel.) 

Win tickets to THE LION PRINCE; the quest for Singapura by The Polliwogs Live

*Updated – tickets for the 31st is already sold out! Hurry grab your tickets for either the 1st or 2nd August now!

This is the first year that we have a new member in the family to celebrate our nation’s birthday and coincidentally while we were wreaking our brains on where to bring Baby Noah, we saw THE POLLIWOGS promoting their family oriented show THE LION PRINCE; QUEST FOR SINGAPURA from 31st July to 2nd Aug & 4th August!

So join us and bring your kids down for a guaranteed gob-smacking family friendly and seriously fun comedy. My beloved readers here’s some prizes for you!

2 pairs of THE LION PRINCE tickets to be won! 

Please comment in the feedback form below with your correct answer:

What is the name of the main character in THE LION PRINCE?

Note:

• 2 lucky winners will be selected and each winner gets 1 pair of tickets to go for the below show timing and date.
• The result of the 2 lucky winners will be announced on Sunday, 26th July at 12pm.
• Admission of tickets for both Adult & Child (3 year old and above) are required.
• Please include your email address with the correct answer for verification purpose.

Show dates: Sunday, 2^nd August 2015

Show times: 11:00am sharp (come early to avoid the crowd!)

Show duration (approx.): 1hr 20 min (with 15 min interval break)

Show venue: NTUC Auditorium @ NTUC Centre. Click here for the map

WIN tickets to THE LION PRINCE; THE QUEST FOR SINGAPURA

 

The Polliwogs LIVE and NTUC are proud to present “The Lion Prince; Quest for Singapura”. Travel back in time to discover the legend of how Singapore got her name. Join “The Polliwogians” on an epic adventure with Prince Sang Nila Utama in helping him fulfil his destiny and learn about leadership, friendship, and how to overcome one’s fear.

Expect lots of laughter from our theatrical effects onstage accompanied with audience participation and be amazed by how sand can be used to depict a fascinating voyage back in time!

Special deal for LifeAfterNoah readers!

For our dearest readers who decide to purchase the tickets now, there’s an exclusive discount of 10% off for you as well! Simply join our facebook group here to get the promo code to enjoy this exclusive promotion!

Show dates: 1^st August 2015 (Saturday) & 2^nd August 2015 (Sunday)

Show times: 11am & 3pm

Show duration (approx.): 1hr: 20 min   (With 15 min interval break)

Ticket price: $38 for CAT A tickets, $35 for CAT B tickets

Tickets are running out fast, so hurry book your tickets NOW at http://www.globaltickets.sg/the-lion-prince!

Baby Noah and the sims shall see you there!! 

ChangiAirport SG50 home spots

In celebration of Singapore’s 50th birthday, Changi airport have amazing photo trails of home spots.

We went to chase after each home spots outside the immigration checkpoint and took our share of pictures as well. Starting with Terminal 3 – Story with Changi.

Video standee right outside food court, 3 different feature stories of them and Changi airport. Including one with couple’s proposal !

Our local ice cream man cart! *ring ring*

Terminal 3 departure lobby displaying all the different airport control towers in Singapore! Honestly i didn’t realized some still exist! And the miniature looks so adorable, but be careful and don’t touch them as they are made of cardboard!

SG50 Home spot at departure hall of terminal 3

Our Paya lebar airport control tower was opened in August 1955, was our second passenger airport until June 1981, when it became a military air base. Then now we only get to visit during Republic of Singapore Air Force (RSAF) open house.

Doesn’t this looks familiar? Yup! that’s Changi airport iconic control tower situated between Changi International Airport 2 runways and stands at about 81 m Above Mean Sea Level (AMSL). Can’t imagine how they handle 700 aircraft movement daily?!

Samsonite stand to win booth when you read your wishes for Singapore and hang the luggage tags behind those overwhelmed luggage between the different iconic landscapes such as the Merlion and Singapore flyer.

Some baby there just woke up from his morning nap and still very stoned. haha.. anyway he’s posing in front of paya lebar airport control tower.

After a while, playing with Daddy, the lil monster wakes!

Look at the cute little fireman tracks at Seletar airport control tower spot. It has been operational since 2011 with a brand new control tower standing at 32.0 m Above Mean Sea Level (AMSL).

The old racecourse at Farrer Park, or the Serangoon Road Race Course, was built in 1842. The racecourse became a sports and recreational hub for the Europeans and created employment for the early settlers from Java and India. The racecourse moved to its new premises in Bukit Timah in 1933.  

Once again we are the winner for skytrax! All the good efforts from our Changi Airport staff, good job! Baby Noah giving mummy his “everything also want to touch” pose~

Giantatic Singa the courtesy Lion located near the skytrain to terminal 1 waves at everyone who passes by. Courtesy Campaign was launched in 1982 to educate the public on courtesy, graciousness and eventually kindness. From 2009 till 2013, Singa the Lion has been adopted as the official mascot of the Singapore Kindness Movement

Still remember the news came when Singa resigned as the mascot of Kindness movement, to step aside for the humans to step up. Are we up to standard yet? What you think..

The little miniatures and figures of Singa, still remember these from my primary school days.

We found this at terminal 1, Trishaw home spot!

Baby Noah and Daddy took a ride! The dazzling LED lights on the roof cover so enchanting to Noah, can’t get him to look at the camera.

Don’t they look like twinkle little stars in the sky?

This home spot is near the entrance of Terminal 1, showcasing the different airlines located at T1.

Another HOME SPOT that brings terminals together! Its the skytrain! there are 5 different design trains moving around the terminals, do remember to check out their designs when you board them next time!

MAO SHAN WANG! i think this giant durian is the most iconic of all home spots. Durians are the main “attraction” to foreigners for their smell and taste aren’t they?

Home spot of the shape of Singapore celebrating its 50 years of glory. Baby Noah will be having his 1st year too so lets put them together for a shot!

We spend 5 hours and more walking, eating, and taking photos. Its not all the home spot that we covered, there are more inside the transit area i.e larger than life – chilli crabs and satay etc. do remember to take selfie with them when you travel. The displays will be open until end of September for all Singaporeans and passengers.

For more info you may visit their website at CHANGI AIRPORT SG50.

Singapore Zoo : baby 101

Long awaited Sunday finally arrives, our plan for Zoo trip with Asher and his parents have been on our bucket list for ages.

We are lucky as Asher’s Dad has got corporate rates for 3 free tickets including his own admission. With 2 little babies on our shoulder, some preparation will be needed before we even step out of the house.

ITEMS IN THE BAGS

• Diapers – keep it to 3
• Small hand towels – to wipe the hands and mouth, to clean their saliva, and during feeding.
• wet wipes – other than cleaning little butts, we should too for the baby chairs and tables.
• insect repellent patch for infants – brought from Guardian ( click on the link for more brands), that lasts for 12 hours

• 

  Neutri care insect repellent patch suitable for infants

• Mini fans – if we can bring air con, we would. trust me.
• Extra clothes – when kids sees the pool, it means PLAYTIME
• towels
• snacks and water – little tummies get hungry faster than the adults, so this is MANDATORY.
• facial spray – keep the skin moisturizes.
• cash – make sure you draw your money, in case bottles are empty and snacks are finished
• iphone – well if you have your go pro camera then i have nothing to say, but iphone’s image quality are rather decent.
• selfie sticks – no explanation needed.
• nursing Cover – important for parent’s who are still breastfeeding ( Haylyn and i still on going with the feed on the go program, so we cut the weight on the milk powder, yay!)

Other than the above, of coz try to pack the night before in case you missed out any the next morning, as i’m sure its going to be WAKE, BATHE, EAT, AND GO. 

SNACKS, FOOD, DRINKS

Haylyn, Asher’s mom whom happens to be my all time favorite batch girl in JAL ( we were in japan airlines as cabin crews before we were pregnant and had to leave.) told me she prepared food for the little ones tomorrow. They packed some ham & cheese sandwich, baby snacks and some left over chicken meat from their dinner the night before to ensure no babies are starved. With all the humidity and touring around, WATER need to be filled and preferably prepare small bottles in the bag for the adults ( you know la, the prices in these places are expensive, in singlish Tok money de.).

GETTING THERE

Several options for families with babies or kids to travel there.

• taxi or self drive —> click here for parking rates
• bus ( from northsouth line mrt stations)
  

  Nearest MRT stations	Connecting buses
  Choa Chu Kang (NS4)	927
  Ang Mo Kio (NS16)	138
  Marsiling (NS8)	926 (operates on Sundays and Public Holidays only)
  Woodlands (NS9)	926 (operates on Sundays and Public Holidays only)

• Safari gate ( city to mandai and back; either board at Suntec city mall or Singapore Flyer)
• Singapore attraction express service 

Both Families planned and met at Suntec city at 11 am to catch the Safari gate ride which was scheduled to leave at 11:20am. However we realized that since each adult cost $7 for the tickets, why not we just take taxi instead? Which we can be own time own target, right? So we went to Paparich to had our breakfast!

Meals before we go to ZOO

Excited Asher! Sooooo happy that he’s going to zoo with his pal, Noah whom kept copy cat his actions.

Transport via taxi took us $18 for the whole ride, so it was even cheaper than taking the Safari gate for 4 adults + 2 babies.

Yay! We have reached! lets hold hands Asher!

Yay! Baby Noah and Asher TIME for a welfie!

We found two little koala bear roaming at the entrance!

Welfie time with Mummies! Already sweating even before the tour *drip*

TICKETING

One of the reason why we wanted to come to zoo because there was promotion for safra 1 for 1, so make sure you check for all the deals before you reach.

1. Singapore zoo park hopper 
2. Safra 1 for 1
3. passion card – 15% off when tickets purchase on site.
4. ntuc offer  – 15% off when tickets purchase on site.
5. SG 50 offer – 50% off from 1 to 31 Aug 2015
6. Groupon offer – $23.80 for zoo admission & tram rides

Tamarin with her baby!

Noah and Asher spotted them too!

Travel 101 – always check where is the toilets and nursing room.

Tiger’s skull @_@ so much bigger than Noah  

Aren’t the white tigers beautiful with their pink nose? Somehow it seems so horrible to keep them in the zoo. But i guess that’s the only way in preserving their kind.

Tigers are going to be extinct if humans continue their killings. Will tigers survive this century?

So in Singapore we have 2 white tigers left!

Let’s visit baby….HIPPPO!

Catch the little water ballerina ! We got the best front view to her swimming behind her mummy!

Great swimmer there! Do you know that hippo red skin is to protect them from being Sun tan?

welfie time with daddy on the PHONE! hmph!! while waiting to see the down under animals! guess who!

We are going to see the koala bears for the first time. even Noah wore animals print top to zoo!

Giving mummy a nudge, Noah loves seeing the animals!  

Mummy telling Noah to keep very quiet, and no flash no talking! Because the koala is sleeping…. can anyone spot them?

Look at the little fellow there.. hibernating! They spend more time asleep then awake.

The koala behind us or the koala on my hands are cuter?

Here is what the koala eat and smell like – eucalyptus leaves

Guesssssss who have short pregnancy? starting with letter K too.

Spot a Kangaroo there?! Chilling under the HOT killer weather, we are sweating from inside out.

The Tram ride saved us from walking under the hot sun, only $5 ! Someone isn’t enjoying the humid hot day..

Tip- when you really cannot find nursing nearby, you always nurse on a tram as it will go round the zoo without you having to get off at the next stop

Clearly we got a gloomy kid here, who’s hot and hungry, on our way to makan. Decided to drop by Ah meng’s restaurant for a tea break.

Soon after meal time, we went over to the KIDZ WORLD wanting to go skinny dripping! But it was too populated!

Rates as shown hanging there.. kind of over priced for the rides though. So we didn’t buy any.

Look at that crowd , definitely not a baby friendly day.

We gave the little goats something worth fighting for. LEAVES!

Pretty Mummy Haylyn assisting Noah to feed the goats. See how Brave my boy is! I’m so impressed!

My sweet boy going grow up to be animal lover.

I was quite afraid that the goats might clew on his hands, but thank goodness, they were just hungry for leaves.

A set of sad ponies 😦

Amazingly these penguins are having their summer swim! Not afraid of the hot weather at all!

What are the boys waiting for? POLAR BEAR Feeding time!

One lonely polar bear inside the enclosure.

Raccoon dogs gathering in the freezing cold enclosure

By the time we arrived here, two boys are fully utilierize for the day. lets enjoy the dance from the famingos!

At the end of the trip we took the city safari gate bus, which happens to be a hippo open air bus, I mean of coz we stayed at the lower deck to make the babies sleep. It was also cheapest $3 per adult, and deliver us to orchard which we part our ways with two sleeping boys. 

Trip to any attractions definitely required time management planning, and make sure the kids get enough naps before you head out and make sure they get hydrated thru out the day and enjoy the outdoor! 

For further info on SingApore Zoo information, may go to their website! 

cheerio! 

Staycation or Vacation

Not easy for parents to be  24/7 hovering over mountain of chores, never ending work, squeezing tiny bit of time with friends for tea, and importantly with your little ones. Do we deserve a break away from all these mandatory commitments, I would say yes. ( Definitely yearning for one soooooooon.)

But what about you? Let me know what you think is needed or not.

Kindermusik with Love

Kindermusik with ❤️ – simply before you head down to their lessons, you feel the ❤️ and what direction they will bring your kids towards.

Definitely, I hope my boy grows up to be loving kid who would enjoys music as much as mummy ( who only had a grade5 piano practical 😦 sadly couldn’t continue that journey).

True enough their dedicated classroom at Rochester mall and katong V hotel aren’t liked those branded music schools with many rooms, they settled with just one cozy corner. To me it was enough and homey.

Today i arranged with their in charge to do a 45mins trial at Katong V with Noah and his dad. We went early and were the first to reach.

Friendly staff greeted us and invite us to enter, music was on and bouncy balls was spread around for the babies to warm up.

Kindermusik at Katong V

teacher Kim awaits

Noah roamed the room and check out the balls. Toys and music instruments were all layed neatly on the table cabinet, I wonder if he knows what’s coming up for him. Hee..

various points on how music is good for babies

“Music is a more potent instrument than any other for education, because rhythm and harmony find their way into the inward places of the soul.” – Plato

excited little one listening to the welcome music

class begins on time

Learning is more fun
when we all learn together. Especially with the parents paticipating.

Teacher Kim started to sing liked a mermaid with welcoming song.

clapping along

30-35mins to
2 songs, dedicated to introducing each babies
to massaging your baby, then to movement learning such as waving, clapping and swaying.

To sharing of music instruments by playing with the drum set and interchanging the instruments – not every child gets the chance to learn to share toys, just liked my boy as he’s the only child and gets whatever he wants or (points) so it was a great opportunity that he learns.

And to standing up while holding the lil one in their arms and interacting with the other babies and music (My husband felt like he signed up for gym session as my boy weights 14kg :p)

bubbles time

Aha.. Never did expect for this, but it was bubbles time.
All babies love bubbles don’t they? look at Noah and his classmates can’t get enough of it.  

peek a boo time

I think this is peak moment for them with rainbow tent flying above their heads (parents had to wave them up and down) waaaaaa so nice~

Noah crawled to the middle trying to catch it

With that, we spend 45mins having fun with him enjoying the music sang by the teacher and making new friends.

Coincidently it was the last lesson for that term and the babies got certificate for completing the term.

Personally felt that it was very encouraging for the parents who is willing to spend quality time with their babies in such a enriching environment.

Looking forward to join the new term soon!

For more information on the different age group classes and timing, you may visit their website :: http://www.kindermusikwithlovestudios.com.sg/

Cheers!

Follow me on Instagram @rurulong

Nursery singalong at Flower dome

Yet another weekend of every family usual bring the baby out day. We decide to take a visit to the flower dome again. Previous time we went with Isabelle for the Henderson fairytale turpil exhibit. Flower dome have interesting theme exhibition going this year. Especially it reminds everyone of a bit of their childhood.

This time round, it’s the nursey rhymes (the age going younger), and we thought finally Noah can enjoy his nursery rhymes while eye feasting on the sea of flowers.

roses ;mummy sims favourite!

As we make our way from the entrance they have panels of different  breed of flowers, a picture worthy time!

horizon view of flower dome

Looking forward to join the crowd, we make sure Noah is suited well for the freezing tour.

Daddy sim helped with Noah socks wearing while enduring the aircon blowing at him. Can’t help to buy girls socks for him because baby boys design are always so old plain Jane. Mum with boys will understand :p.

 Noah is all ready to ride on for nursery rhyme tour with mummy and daddy! Look at the beautiful swan behind, kick start the childhood memories of nursery rhymes..

Mandatory to have a couple welfie, if only Noah can take the picture for us at 11 months old, mummy shall look forward for that day!

Shots of HD image of well taken care flowers, enjoying their noon chilling inside the freezing cold dome.

Someone accidentally pull off petal of flowers when we push him too near and Daddy had to save the rest from being destroyed by the little monster. 😁

Right below is where the characters are! So beautiful and thoughtfully laid out.

Daddy and baby welfie got photobomb by another family, why can’t they just wait for me to finish taking the picture?! Great arch there right?

Little sunshine.

Mummy got to grab you from escaping, STOP trying to steal those flowers Noah!!

While we strolled down to the main site, there was the nursery songs playing,  we sang along & dance with Noah. Really add taste to the whole menu.

Too tired to carry him around because he refused to sit in his pram. Getting more heavier by the day, Noah, *stare and hint*
  

Daddys your new pet horse right?

Individual stand out.

Loving the dainty white petals behind us!

Is that for mummy? Awwww

As said by Derrick, they looked like clowns. I feel they look liked Bruce Wayne bat man!!

Yay we reached the bottom of the tour,  let’s see where’s your favorite characters?

  

Another welfie at the “unauthorized entry door”, they even decorate until so pretty.
  

Noah is giving mummy a guided tour on how he feels about the characters. Hmm. Yes I’m listening..

My favorite picture of the day #potd

Look! Bears living in a cottage!

The kind staff took family picture for us, thanks again!

So hard to get Noah to look at the camera. Next time shall install a gopro camera on your head then you know.

Daddy and baby’s moment with their lunar character horsey~

Season for mangos? (Right side of the img)

Always find my son to be too attractive , either people want to touch him or carry him. Mummy need to charge fees lor!

Mary had a little lamb and some little bugger photobombing this pic :p

There there we found the itsy bitsy spider and Humpty Dumpty!

At the end of the tour there was interactive games to play by teaching people on saving the environment. Really quite educational, because it’s a tourist sit and bound to have lots of people. So please save water and do your part in recycling products!!

My 3rd ice cream at the children’s cafe. I had white rose, lavenDer and earl grey tea! Udders way to go, all my fav taste, loving it!

Flower display shall end on 19july, I would recommend for the seniors and young ones to come and enjoy the scenery that we hardly get to see in this hot weather. Just remember to bring along your jackets and walk the trail.

Relive your childhood as we bring to life some of your favourite nursery rhymes! Step into a world filled with beloved characters such as Mary and her little lamb, the old lady in her shoe, and Old MacDonald with his farm animals. Amidst a field of colourful Lupins, Delphiniums and Foxgloves, find Humpty Dumpty before his fall and visit Mary, Mary, Quite Contrary in her garden! Local favourites such as ” 客人来” will be featured as well!

Flowery Fun Times” is the third of six chapters in Gardens by the Bay’s storytelling journey in 2015. This enchanting series of floral displays for the year will draw visitors into the magical world of folklore, legends, fairy tales and nursery rhymes as told through the language of plants.

Adults at $12, kids at $8, seniors at $8.

10% off for passion card, Ntuc and Safra members. 

http://www.gardensbythebay.com.sg/en/the-gardens/whats-on/calendar-of-event/Nursery-Rhymes-Details.html

Right after we dropped by the children’s  garden. Baby noah had great fun with daddy!! They had areas for toddlers and bigger kids, but nevertheless Noah loves playing with water! Great hangout!

Nursing room and convenient store is present! Free admission too!!

  
  
Well spent day, and now Baby is sleeping. Good night!