Cynthia Lawrence

About Cynthia Lawrence

A lifestyle journalist for national magazines, Cynthia resides in London with her son and husband. With an unhealthy obsession for homes and interiors, Cynthia takes inspiration from her fabulous family travels and exciting adventures. She has a Bachelor's degree in Media and Cultural Studies from Middlesex University.

Family interest

Community & Giving Back

In house speciality

Media and Cultural Studies

Education

Middlesex University

Qualifications

Bachelor of Arts specializing in Media and Cultural Studies

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Recent Work

Young kids at the desk in a classroom, focusing on one girl who is smiling, cutting paper to make an origami unicorn.

How To Make An Origami Unicorn: Easy Step By Step Guide

Who doesn’t love unicorns?

Children (and adults) are fascinated by this mythical white horse and making an origami unicorn is a great way to explore this. With origins in Japanese culture, the name ‘origami’ translates into ‘folding paper’, and it is centred around folding paper into complex 3D shapes, structures and beautiful models.

The delicate craft of origami is traditionally based on folding one sheet of square paper which is plain on one side and coloured on the other. The process doesn’t usually involve any cutting or glueing, just simply making neat and precise folds.

Each project usually comes with diagrams or origami instructions to carefully follow. The most popular origami creation is the crane.

This uses a square base, known as the bird base, and two petal folds. Tradition has it that if you fold a thousand origami cranes, it will grant you one wish!

Origami is a perfect arts and crafts activity that children of all ages can enjoy. And there are all types of origami animals and designs to create. From paper pigs to puppies, if you’re stuck for ideas, have a look here for more inspiration.

Here’s how to make a simple unicorn origami that will be a magical hit.

Ages 8-12Arts, Crafts & Design

Two kids holding white games console controllers playing video games.

The Best Hilarious Video Game Jokes For Kids

Image © Ketut Subiyanto, Pexels.

If your kids are big fans of video games and take their game playing seriously, they are in need of a good laugh!

Children’s video games worldwide have certainly evolved over the years. Ranging from the popular Minecraft and Pokemon, to ‘retro’ games such as Super Mario and Sonic The Hedgehog. And any parent of a gamer knows how loyal they are to their favourite video games!

While playing video games have received negative press in the past, if you choose the right, age-appropriate video game, it can be a powerful and educational tool. Certain video games can really aid children with the development of certain life skills, and coordination.

For example, Minecraft was designed to help children learn how to solve problems and navigate obstacles which can be used in real-life.

Of course, screen time needs to be limited depending on their age. But in the meantime, why not give them a laugh when it’s game over? If you’re looking for some game-changing, funny gamer jokes, puns and one-liners all about the world of video games, you’ve come to the right place.

Here are the best video gaming jokes that are guaranteed to level you up!

Ages 0-99Technology, Science & Health

Baby with a dummy in its mouth pulling a blanket over its head.

How To Get Rid Of A Dummy: Helpful Tips And Ideas

When our babies need comforting, the dummy is usually a popular first point of call!

Dummies certainly have their benefits. They are great ways to help babies self-soothe in distress and they help them sleep well, as they feel more secure.

Not only does it provide instant relief and joy to our little ones, but also for parents and carers. In fact, it’s quite common for households to keep a stash of dummies lying around on standby!

But, if babies grow into preschoolers and are still sucking their dummies, you may want to consider getting rid of their beloved comforter. Read on for our advice on how to make this process as painless as possible.

Ages 0-99Parenting Tips

Smiling baby wearing a hat lying on stomach and its chewing hands.

Baby Chewing On Hands? This Might Be Why

Image © Victoria Borodinova, pexels.com

Babies and infants are unpredictable at the best of times, and understanding their non-verbal cues can be quite a task.

With their different moods, behaviours and changing habits, it can often be a challenge to figure out what they all mean. As the popular saying goes, ‘babies don’t come with a manual’, and it really is about trial and error!

A common behaviour, which can be baffling at times, is when babies start chewing on their hands. Once your newborn discovers their hands, this becomes a new ‘play’ thing to focus on.

And experts suggest that putting hands or fists in the mouth is another step in self discovery, learning how they work and what they can do. Not to mention the endless dribbling caused by their favourite habit. This is all part of their sensory development.

However, excessive hand-chewing could also be a signal for other things. While this may be concerning for parents, your baby chewing on fingers is usually nothing to worry about. So, if you’re wondering about your baby’s fascination with ‘eating’ their hands, here are some useful answers to your questions!

Ages 0-99Pregnancy & Baby

The New Normal: Swimming Pools and Lidos

When the summer temperatures are rising, nothing is more refreshing than a swim.

So we all rejoiced at the news that indoor pools, gyms and leisure centres can finally reopen on 25 July. While some may be anxious post-lockdown, Swim England, the official government body, have issued strict guidelines for leisure facilities to ensure that everyone can safely enjoy swimming.

So what would swimming with the family look like? And what are the safety measures in place to stick to? Dive in.

Ages 0-99Money, Fashion & Lifestyle

11 Best Things To Do In Bromley

Bromley is an idyllic leafy suburb to escape the hustle and bustle of the city.

However, it’s also filled with plenty of fun-filled activities and outdoor adventures for the whole family to enjoy. As one of the largest London boroughs that make up Greater London, Bromley has a rich English Heritage history and is home to some of the most beautiful parks and tourist attractions.

Whether you want to explore hidden caves, soak up some history or go nature rambling, here are some of Bromley’s best hidden gems.

Ages 0-99Days Out