Toys
Red Jelly Kids retro painting smock
I hope I’m not starting to sound smug about living in Brighton, but we really are spoiled by the number of great things for kids to do. Red Jelly Kids is one such thing – a creative play class for the under-sixes that lets them get down and dirty with paint, glue, glitter, jelly, water, goo, feathers, clay… basically anything and everything you wouldn’t want on your lounge carpet.
The brainchild of mum-of-two Tash Tamlyn, each week has a different theme – think under the sea, fairy tales, cars, trains and planes – and classes kick off with a rousing rendition of the Red Jelly song and finishes with a story. In between, anything goes, from big group projects – hand-print murals, painting cardboard castles – to individual artworks – pictures, puppets, crowns – you can take away. Parents and carers are actively encouraged to join in and the atmosphere is one best described as jolly carnage.
One of my favourite elements of the experience is the vintage-style red and white gingham smocks the children are given to wear and, after many enquiries from parents, they are now available to buy for £10. With elasticated neck and cuffs, no mess is going anywhere near your little one’s clothes. Alfie loves his as it’s much less restricting than plasticky versions (observe him painting with Daddy, above) and I love it because it equals a lot less washing. As a bonus, it’s cotton, fits a range of ages and looks completely adorable. A win-win situation.
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Tagged Art, Brighton, craft, creative play, painting smock, Red Jelly Kids
KellyMarch 17, 2011 at 9:46 am
Oh those classes look like so much fun. Hove isn’t too far from us, will think about taking Piran in the future.
Alison ClarkeMarch 18, 2011 at 10:00 pm
Red Jelly is amazing fun! It’s so great to let your child be free and explore without inhibition and feel absolutely no concern for the ensuing mess! Take a washcloth, towel and change of clothes for your little one just in case they decide to sit in the water and/or paint trays! Accept that your little darling may spend the rest of the day with blue hair and enjoy watching their utter delight at Tash’s wonderful weekly themed creations. She puts so much thought into every session, complete with all the little touches. Everything is safe and non-toxic so if your child decides to suck the paintbrushes or eat the squidgy stuff you need not worry! But Mums a word of advice – wear what you don’t mind getting covered in paint so that you can relax and go with the flow. Don’t wear your latest White Stuff top …
Amanda at NubieMarch 20, 2011 at 10:05 pm
WOW ! Was looking for some different activities to do with my daughter next week -she will adore this ! Thanks Lucy x
LucyMarch 20, 2011 at 10:10 pmAuthor
She really will – it’s great.
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