The second half of our trip was a whirlwind of day trips and retail investigation. We learnt a ton about where to save money, what to skip, and the must-buy souvenirs.
Caversham Tip: We had an amazing upclose encounter with the koalas! But book the koala hugging tickets in advance—they were sold out by the time we arrived.
Whiteman Park: The vintage train wasn’t running when we were there, but the vintage tram ride was a super fun substitute.
Ferry Warning: The ferry ride was quite bumpy due to strong waves and wind, making seasickness very real.
Logistics are Key: We missed both our outbound and return ferries! Be aware that staff may get you onto the next ferry.
Parent Tip: Skip the bikes. The hop on and off buses were the most practical way to explore the island with young children.
3. The Shopping Verdict (Days 10 & 11)
We did the retail reconnaissance so you don’t have to:
Fremantle Souvenirs: Fremantle Market is the best place to get souvenirs like coffee beans, stuffed toys, and handmade soaps.
The Toy Hack & Best Value:Target had lots of good deals, but the real win for parents was the toys—they are incredibly cheap compared to back home!
Supermarket Sweeps: Don’t ignore Woolworths and Coles. They aren’t just for groceries; we found they are a must to check out for generally good deals and snacks to bring back.
DFO (The Trap): Honestly, DFO was generally “meh.” Do not waste your time unless you are specifically looking for Tommy Hilfiger—that was the only brand worth checking out.
Final Tip: If you need a tax refund, the counter is after you clear immigration at the airport.
We started our 12 days in Western Australia with one goal: proving that “money returns, time doesn’t”. What we ended up with was a two-part holiday—the gorgeous chaos of the campervan contrasted with the structured thrill of city day trips.
The Campervan Chapter: Reality Hits Early
Our adventure began with a sharp lesson: you need to expect delays. Our scheduled 9:00 AM campervan pick-up was pushed back, and it honestly sank our ambitious plans. We had to make a tough call at Busselton: ditch the planned sunset and Observatory tour to prioritise the essential grocery run.
The biggest joy was watching the landscape change daily: taking the train ride out on the Busselton Jetty, breathing the cool air inside Ngilgi Cave, and seeing the pure delight of the kids feeding animals at Big Valley Margaret River Campsite.
The final drive on Day 6 involved one last stop: we squeezed in our planned Vasse Felix winery visit just before starting the long 3.5 to 4-hour haul back to Perth.
The Perth Sprint: High Drama and Essential Wisdom
Days 7 through 12 were a high-energy sprint from our Perth base.
Our Day 7 focused solely on the pick-you-own strawberry farm. Later, the vintage train ride we planned at Whiteman Park wasn’t operating, but turns out, the vintage tram ride was a brilliant substitute!
Rottnest Island was pure adrenaline. I’ll be honest—there was serious drama. We missed both our outbound AND return ferries, but the relief when we caught the next one was immense! Be prepared: the bumpy ferry ride required attention. For parents, the hop on and off buses were a total game-changer for exploring the island with young children.
Our trip finished with final errands. We drove past the Blue Boat House and the Containbow, realising we didn’t need to stop for photos.
Our final piece of wisdom? If you need a tax refund, the counter is after you clear immigration at the airport so do factor in time needed to clear immigrations.
If you’re heading to WA, you’re considering a campervan. We booked ours through THL. This guide is about the realities, not the picture-perfect shots.
The Logistics that Defined Our First Day
If there is one thing we realised, it’s that you need to expect delays right out of the gate. Our scheduled 9:00 AM campervan pick-up was pushed back, forcing us to make a tough call at Busselton: ditch the planned sunset and Observatory tour to prioritise the essential grocery run.
Tip: If you’re late, take the Busselton Jetty train ride, but skip the longer tours. Then, go straight to Coles or Woolworths.
The real magic of the van was the campsites. Every night was a new environment, a new adventure for the kids.
Campsite Experience
Day
Location
Highlights (from Itinerary)
RAC Busselton Holiday Park
2
Busselton
A needed dose of comfort and amenities after a tough travel day.
Tasman Holiday Parks
3
Dunsborough
Our base for exploring chocolate factories and Meelup Beach.
Big Valley Margaret River Campsite
4
Margaret River
Pure joy! The kids adored the farmstay and feeding the animals.
Flinders Bay Holiday Park
5
Augusta
Perfect for tackling the deep, mysterious worlds of Lake Cave and Jewel Cave.
Final Drive: On Day 6, we squeezed in our Vasse Felix winery visit before starting the long drive back to Perth to return the van before the 3:00 PM deadline.
If you’re a fan of POP MART’s adorable characters, get ready for a treat! VivoCity has teamed up with POP MART to bring the imaginative world of THE MONSTERS Wacky Mart Series to life. From September 24 to October 19, 2025, you can experience two exciting event spaces: an immersive photo installation at the Sky Park and an exclusive pop-up retail store at the East Court.
Playful Photo Ops at the LABUBU Mini Market
The VivoCity Sky Park has been transformed into the quirkiest convenience store you’ve ever seen! Here, you’ll find four different photo zones filled with playful surprises and oversized installations.
Basket of Mischief: Start your journey in a massive 3.6-meter-wide shopping basket.
Snack Attack: Get goofy with giant chips and a jumbo milk carton. This spot is perfect for selfies and group photos with larger-than-life treats.
Quick Bites: Capture some fun moments at LABUBU’s “cheeky Chow Mein food truck,” which brings the Wacky Mart vibes to life (no actual noodles included!).
LABUBU Mini Market: Step inside the ultimate convenience store bursting with color and grocery-themed props. Don’t miss the larger-than-life LABUBU Cup Noodle display, which is a definite selfie magnet.
Shop Exclusive Collectibles
For serious collectors, the POP MART themed store at East Court (Level 1) is a must-visit. The space is filled with exclusive merchandise from THE MONSTERS Wacky Mart Series. These playful collectibles are inspired by everyday grocery finds, including:
Storage Bag Blind Box and Hanging Tissue Holder
Seafood Balls Plush Pendant and Sandwich Mini Bag
Cup Noodles Figure Storage Bags and Silicone Ice Cube Trays
Important Note: To enter the pop-up retail store, you must register online in advance, as walk-ins are not permitted. Be sure to check POP MART Singapore’s social media accounts for the registration link. Even if you don’t get a slot, you can still snap a photo outside with the giant 2.4-meter-tall LABUBU Microwave Oven installation.
This collaboration is a fantastic celebration for both POP MART fans and anyone looking for a fun, unique outing. Mark your calendars and get ready to have a monstrously good time!
Imagine yourself 57 storeys high, with a gentle breeze in your hair and the glittering Singapore skyline spread out beneath you. This is the promise of the newly reimagined LAVO Coastal Italian Restaurant & Rooftop Bar, a destination that captures the very essence of an eternal Italian summer.
Perched atop Marina Bay Sands, LAVO has shed its skin to reveal a stunning new look inspired by the sun-drenched elegance of the Amalfi Coast. Since its launch in 2018, it has been a beacon of skyline glamour, and now it enters a new era. Think warm Mediterranean neutrals, gorgeous handcrafted tiles, and honey-toned accents that glow during golden hour. The expansive wraparound terrace offers unparalleled panoramic views of both the city and the sea, creating the perfect backdrop for everything from a champagne brunch to sunset cocktails that stretch late into the night.
Image Credits: Marina Bay Sands
A long-time favourite for the jet-set, LAVO has always buzzed with a unique energy. It has hosted an incredible lineup of stars, including Mariah Carey, The Weeknd, David Beckham, and Bella Hadid. The recent relaunch party was no exception, with Singapore-born American actor Ross Butler hosting the star-studded affair and celebrity DJ Kim Lee setting the mood on the dance floor, reaffirming LAVO’s status as the place to see and be seen.
Image Credits: Marina Bay Sands
A Culinary Ode to La Dolce Vita
The heart of LAVO’s transformation is its refreshed menu, a beautiful love letter to coastal Italy. While long-time fans will be delighted to find signatures like the legendary Meatball and the towering 20-Layer Chocolate Cake still hold pride of place, they are now joined by a symphony of new seaside flavours.
Prepare to be swept away by dishes like the Mafaldine Seafood Alfredo, a decadent pasta tossed with succulent shrimp and scallops in a rich lobster butter sauce. Freshness is paramount, celebrated in plates like the Grilled Branzino, perfectly cooked and brightened with a Sorrento lemon vinaigrette, and the tender Grilled Octopus antipasti. It’s a menu where simplicity meets sophistication, letting the pure, vibrant flavours of the sea truly shine.
Image Credits: Marina Bay Sands
Raise a Glass to Coastal Flavours
No Italian escape is complete without the perfect drink, and LAVO’s new cocktail programme is a masterpiece. Each creation is designed to complement the coastal menu, from refreshing spritzes to bold, flavour-forward cocktails that taste like summer in a glass.
Image Credits: Marina Bay Sands
For a true taste of the Mediterranean, try the Amalfi Breeze—a dreamy, effervescent blend of coconut, gin, and prosecco. Or perhaps the From Sicily with Love, a floral and fruity concoction that pays homage to the Italian countryside. For those who prefer their fun guilt-free, the mocktail selection is just as enchanting, featuring the velvety and tropical La Dolce Vita.
Your Sky-High Escape Awaits
More than just a restaurant, LAVO is a destination pulsating with energy from day to night. It’s a place for celebrating life’s moments, big and small. Its famous weekend brunches are a fixture on the city’s social calendar, and for the ultimate party, the iconic LAVO Party Brunch returns on select weekends with live DJs and immersive entertainment.
Whether you’re settling into the sun-drenched dining room, enjoying an alfresco meal on the terrace, or soaking up the vibrant atmosphere at the lounge, LAVO promises an unforgettable escape. It’s where the spirit of la dolce vita comes alive, high above the heart of the city.
Find them: LAVO Singapore is located at Level 57, Marina Bay Sands Hotel Tower 1.
Follow their journey on Instagram and Facebook at @lavosingapore.
Life is a collection of moments and experiences. For me, a scent has the power to unlock a flood of memories faster than any photograph. The smell of old books takes me back to my schooling days; the salty sea air, to blissful afternoons spent boating. So when I heard about a local brand that bottles the very essence of Singapore, I was immediately intrigued. This isn’t just about perfume; it’s about bottling nostalgia.
I’m talking about Singapore Memories®, a premium fragrance brand that is completely redefining what a souvenir can be. Forget the usual merlion magnets and keychains; this is a brand that has managed to capture the island’s soul through its most evocative flora – the native orchid.
What truly sets Singapore Memories apart is its deep commitment to authenticity. This is where heritage, history, and meticulous research intersect. The founders spent over a decade studying the aromatic and medicinal properties of Asian orchids. The result is a collection that feels both luxurious and deeply meaningful. As founder Ms Prachi Saini Garg and her team see it, “scent is storytelling,” and each bottle is a tribute to Singapore’s botanical heritage and the pioneers who nurtured it, from Sir Stamford Raffles to the visionaries behind the National Orchid Garden.
Of course, a fragrance brand lives and dies by its scents. I took a deep dive into their signature collection, and it’s a journey worth taking.
The Signature Collection: A Whiff of Heritage
Singapore Girl® (S$35) The icon. The legend. This isn’t a new creation but a stunning revival of a beloved perfume from the 1960s. For those who appreciate a touch of history, this is a must-have. It opens with a vibrant burst of citrus and softens into a graceful heart of lotus and water-lily, before settling into a warm teakwood base. Our reviewer aptly noted that while the initial floral sweetness is prominent, the scent beautifully “grew more and more musky” over time, revealing a richer character that lasts throughout the day. It’s a fragrance that balances modern femininity with timeless elegance.
Raffles Heritage (S$35) Evoking a sense of colonial charm and contemporary refinement, this is a classic masculine scent. With confident, robust notes of cedarwood and vetiver, it’s designed for the modern gentleman who appreciates the finer things in life. It feels sophisticated, grounded, and timeless.
Peranakan Oud (S$35) This is a bold, unisex fragrance that truly makes a statement. Combining intoxicating jasmine, rich oud, and warm cardamom, it’s a nod to the intricate craftsmanship of Peranakan culture. Reviews for this are often passionate; one described it as a “love it or hate it” scent due to its intense, spicy, and musky character. It’s a complex and exotic perfume for those who aren’t afraid to stand out.
Reves de Singapour (S$35) The name, meaning “Dreams of Singapore,” perfectly captures this artistic floral blend. It’s a unisex fragrance that speaks to travellers and dreamers. One review highlighted its spicy top notes of cinnamon and nutmeg that evolve into a complex, woody scent, calling it an “exotic perfume” that feels both memorable and alluring.
More Than a Perfume, It’s an Experience
What I find most compelling is that Singapore Memories positions each fragrance as a “luxury souvenir.” This is the perfect answer for anyone, be it tourists or locals like us who are looking for a truly special gift. It’s a piece of Singapore’s identity, elegantly bottled and ready to be shared.
The brand’s vision doesn’t stop here. They are exploring innovations in aromatherapy and plan to partner with high-end hotels, extending Singapore’s unique floral story across the globe.
In a world of fleeting trends, Singapore Memories has created something timeless. It’s more than just a product; it’s a story, a memory, and a sophisticated way to carry the spirit of Singapore with you. It’s a souvenir that doesn’t just sit on a shelf, but one that truly lingers, unlocking your own Singapore memories with every scent. This is the kind of winning souvenir that is just perfect!
Remember that infectious giggle from your little ones when they discover something truly magical? That’s exactly what my kids experienced at Bluey’s Beach Party at NEX, and honestly, it was an absolute blast for the whole family! From May 30th to June 29th, NEX has transformed the Atrium at Level 1 into a vibrant beachside wonderland, bringing Bluey and Bingo’s exciting adventures to life for the school holidays!
Bouncing into Fun on Singapore’s Largest Bluey Inflatable!
The highlight for my energetic duo was definitely Singapore’s first and largest Bluey-themed inflatable bouncy castle! Watching them leap, slide, and bounce with pure joy was so heartwarming. If you’re looking to enjoy this, from June 2nd to 15th, you can redeem a Bluey Play Pass for kids to enjoy 30 minutes of uninterrupted fun on the bouncy castle with a minimum spend of $50 in a single transaction. Just a tip for other parents: play passes are limited to 150 redemptions daily and need to be booked two hours before your session, so plan ahead!
Getting Creative with Bluey-Inspired Workshops!
Beyond the bouncy castle, there were many other engaging activities to spark their imaginations. My kids loved the hands-on workshops, and as part of the media event, they had the opportunity to make a delightful windchime! The Windchime Workshop takes place on June 7th and 8th and there’s also a Paper Plate Drum Workshop on June 14th and 15th. These workshops run from 2 pm to 5 pm and are open to the first 40 redemptions daily, each requiring a minimum spend of $50 in a single transaction at NEX.
And of course, who can resist free Bluey colouring sheets? My little artists were thrilled to bring their favorite Bluey characters to life with their own artistic touch. Just remember to head there early as quantities are limited daily, so come early to secure one!
The Fun Continues at Bluey’s Beach Party!
With exciting play experiences and creative workshops, it’s the perfect way to soak up the school holiday spirit. Plus, NEXrewards members can even get a $10 eNEX voucher with qualifying spends of $150 or $250! These redemptions are limited to the first 750 per week and are credited directly in the NEXrewards app.
If you’re looking for an amazing time with your kids this June, make sure to head down to NEX from now to June 29th, 2025! Do check out NEX’s website and Facebook page for more information!
It might feel like Mid-Autumn is a while away (and you’d be right!), but for mooncake aficionados and savvy planners, the early bird catches the… well, the most exquisite mooncakes at a discount! Pan Pacific Singapore’s acclaimed Cantonese restaurant, Hai Tien Lo (海天楼), has just unveiled its stunning 2025 Mid-Autumn mooncake collection, and trust me, you’ll want to know about these.
This year, the treats are presented in a traditional hand-crafted red box adorned with signature Hai Tien Lo golden motifs. It’s not just a container; it’s a refined keepsake you can elegantly repurpose, perhaps as a chic jewellery box!
What Baked Delights Await?
For lovers of classic baked goodness, Hai Tien Lo doesn’t disappoint
The signature Hai Tien Lo No. 1 Tea with Melon Seeds Baked Mooncake ($95 per box of four) is making a popular return. Imagine the robust blend of tea and herbal ingredients – a truly indulgent experience!
New this year is the decadent Pandan Paste with Roasted Pumpkin Seeds Baked Mooncake ($95 per box of four).
Of course, the beloved classics are here too: the Single Yolk White Lotus Paste Baked Mooncake ($95 per box of four) and the ever-popular Double Yolk White Lotus Paste Baked Mooncake ($99 per box of four).
Can’t decide? The limited edition Four Treasures Baked Mooncakes ($98 per box of four) offers one of each exquisite baked flavour – perfect for gifting or for those who want it all!
Snow Skin Dreams
If snow skin mooncakes make your heart flutter, get ready for these
Indulge in the ‘King of Fruits’ with Hai Tien Lo’s bestselling Mao Shan Wang Durian Snow Skin Mooncake ($108 per box of four).
Or, cool down with the returning favourite, the Mango Pomelo Snow Skin Mooncake ($95 per box of four), an exquisite combination of juicy mango and tangy pomelo in a delicate, melt-in-your-mouth snow skin.
Why Order So Early, You Ask? The Sweet Perks!
Okay, so the festival lights aren’t twinkling just yet, but planning ahead has its rewards!
Super Early Bird Savings: From now until August 24, 2025, you can enjoy an early bird discount of up to 30% off!
Early Bird Savings: If you miss that window, purchases made from August 25 until October 6, 2025, will still snag you up to 25% off.
This is the perfect time to lock in your choices, especially if you’re planning on gifting these elegant boxes to family, friends, or business associates.
How to Get Your Hands on Them
Tempted? I thought so! Hai Tien Lo’s mooncakes are available for order now until October 6, 2025, online at panpacificsingapore.oddle.me.
Collection can be made between August 28 and October 6, 2025, from 10:00 am to 8:00 pm at the hotel’s mooncake booth, located on level one of Pan Pacific Singapore. Alternatively, delivery can be arranged (only via the Oddle link), which is free for orders of $150 and above. Orders below $150 will incur a fee that varies by location.
A Little More Detail
All prices mentioned are inclusive of prevailing government taxes. For any enquiries, or to place an order if you prefer not to go online, you can call +65 6826 8240 or +65 9009 5936, or email specialevents.ppsin@panpacific.com.
So, while we’re still enjoying the (hopefully) sunny days ahead, it’s a delightful thought to plan for those joyous Mid-Autumn reunions. And what better way to celebrate than with these exquisite creations from Hai Tien Lo?
If you do indulge, remember to share your moments using #PanPacificSingapore, #HaiTienLoSG, and #ShareYourMoments when you post on social media!
Easter is a time for family, fun, and feasting, and there’s no better place to celebrate this special occasion than at Edge, Pan Pacific Singapore. From 18 April to 20 April 2025, Edge will be hosting a series of Easter-themed culinary events, including a special Easter Sunday Brunch that promises to be a memorable experience for all.
A Feast for the Senses
The Easter Sunday Brunch at Edge is a lavish affair, featuring a delectable spread of dishes that will tantalise your taste buds. The menu includes all the signature dishes from the Easter-themed buffet, along with special live stations and a selection of boutique cheeses.
Savour the Seafood: Seafood lovers will be in heaven with the Seafood on Ice Station, offering a variety of fresh catches. The Seafood Bouillabaisse (French seafood stew) is another must-try, a vibrant medley that evokes the charm of coastal living with its rich flavour.
Aromatic Meats: Meat lovers can indulge in the 12 Hours Slow Roasted Gigantic Veal Leg, a centrepiece that exudes warmth and tradition. Other highlights include the Sous Vide Kurobuta Pork Loin with Maple Mustard Sauce, the Grass Fed Leg of Lamb, and the Honey Glazed House Smoked Virginia Ham.
Sustainable and Fresh: For those who appreciate sustainable dining, the Sustainable Salmon Confit with Citrus Emulsion and Pea Puree is a refreshing and responsible choice.
Cheese and More: The brunch also boasts a selection of boutique cheeses, including Bleu d’Auvergne, Tomme de Savoie, Tete de Moine, and many more, perfect for pairing with your meal.
Sweet Endings: No Easter celebration is complete without desserts, and Edge offers a tempting array of sweet treats. Indulge in the traditional Easter Simnel Cake, the classic Carrot Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting, or the luscious Red Velvet Mousse and Raspberry Lime Yoghurt Mousse. The Peanut Butter Bread and Butter Pudding is another comforting option, drizzled with vanilla sauce.
Family-Friendly Fun
The Easter Sunday Brunch at Edge is not just about the food; it’s also about creating a fun and memorable experience for the whole family. Little ones under the age of 12 will be treated to complimentary Easter-themed welcome mocktails, chocolates, and candies. The festivities include an Easter egg hunt, an arts and crafts corner, and a captivating magic show, ensuring that children have a delightful time.
Raise a Glass to Easter
To complement the culinary offerings, the Easter Sunday Brunch also includes a free flow of beverages. Adults can enjoy Tattinger Brut Réserve Champagne, Tiger Beer, House Red and White Wines, a selection of House Spirits, and House-made Cocktails, including the Bunny Hop Martini and Bloody Mary. Chilled juices and soft drinks are also available for all.
Plan Your Easter Celebration
The Easter Sunday Brunch at Edge is the perfect way to celebrate Easter with your loved ones. With its exquisite culinary offerings, family-friendly activities, and vibrant atmosphere, it promises to be an unforgettable experience.
Price: $238 per adult (inclusive of free flow of Tattinger Brut Réserve Champagne, Tiger Beer, House Red Wine, House White Wine, a selection of House Spirits, and House-made Cocktails, including Bunny Hop Martini, Bloody Mary, chilled juices and soft drinks), $158 per adult (inclusive of free flow of soft drinks), $79 per child (6 to 12 years old) (inclusive of free flow of soft drinks)
Venue: Edge, Pan Pacific Singapore
Reservations: Call +65 6826 8240 or email dining.ppsin@panpacific.com
Don’t miss out on this opportunity to create lasting Easter memories with your family and friends. Book your table now and get ready for a culinary celebration at Edge, Pan Pacific Singapore!
Okay, parents, let’s talk tech. Finding a tablet for your kids that’s affordable, durable, and actually educational can feel like searching for a unicorn. I recently got my hands on a LUMOS TABLET from LUMOS Projector to review, and I’ve been putting it through its paces with my 5-year-old. It’s not one of those pre-packaged “kids’ tablets,” but it’s become a surprisingly useful tool in our house, thanks to a little setup and some carefully chosen apps.
First Impressions – A Solid, No-Frills Android Tablet
The LUMOS TABLET is your basic, straightforward Android 11 tablet. It’s got a clean, minimalist design – no bright colors or cartoon characters here. The 10-inch screen is a great size for watching videos and using those interactive learning apps. It feels pretty sturdy, but, let’s be real, with young kids, a case is a must. I tested the tablet bundle, which includes a Bluetooth keyboard, a mouse, and a protective casing. Honestly, the bundle is a game-changer, and I’ll explain why later.
Setting it up was the standard Android experience. You’ll need a Google account, and you absolutely need to create a child account through Google Family Link. Seriously, don’t skip this step! I’ll explain all about Family Link in a minute – it’s the key to making this tablet kid-friendly and safe. The tablet itself? It’s just your standard Android interface, with full access to the Google Play Store.
Making it Educational – Google Family Link is Your New Best Friend
Here’s the truth – the LUMOS TABLET, by itself, is just a tablet – a blank slate. It’s the software that turns it into a learning machine, and Google Family Link is the star of the show. This isn’t some special LUMOS feature; it’s a free app from Google that works on pretty much any Android device (and even iPhones, to some extent). But for a 5-year-old, it’s absolutely essential.
So, what makes Family Link so great? Let us break it down here.
App Control – You’re in Charge
Think of it as permission slips for downloads. You can set it up so your kid has to ask you before downloading anything from the Play Store. No sneaky downloads of inappropriate games or apps!
Hide and Seek with apps. Got apps you don’t want them using? Just hide them! They’ll never know they exist.
Keeping tabs on their app time. You can see exactly how much time your little one spends on each app. This helps you make sure they’re not just playing games all day and maybe encourage some more learning-focused activities.
Screen Time Sanity – Because We All Need a Break
The daily time limit. Set a total amount of screen time allowed per day. When time’s up, the tablet locks. No more begging for “just five more minutes!”
Bedtime mode is a lifesaver. Schedule specific times when the tablet is totally off-limits, like during bedtime. Sweet dreams, little one (and peace and quiet for you!).
Get specific with app limits. Want to restrict YouTube Kids to, say, 30 minutes a day? You can totally do that! It’s incredibly flexible and lets you customise things to your family’s needs.
Keeping it Clean – Protecting Little Eyes and Ears
Play Store patrol is in effect. Filter apps, games, movies, and shows based on age ratings. You don’t have to worry about your little one accidentally seeing something they shouldn’t.
YouTube choices. You can choose between the super-safe YouTube Kids app (which I highly recommend for this age) or a filtered version of regular YouTube.
Safe Searching is a must. Turn on Google’s SafeSearch to help block out the yucky stuff from search results. It’s not perfect, but it’s a good first line of defense.
Website control. Block specific websites you absolutely don’t want them visiting, or create a “safe list” of only approved sites. You have total control.
Setting Up Family Link – It’s Easier Than You Think!
Grab Your Phone: Download the Google Family Link app (it’s available for both Android and iOS).
Create a Kid Account: Follow the prompts in the Family Link app to create a Google account for your child.
Tablet Time: When you’re setting up the Lumos Tablet, sign in with your child’s new Google account. This will automatically install the Family Link app for kids on the tablet.
Customise, Customise, Customise: Now, go back to the Family Link app on your phone and play around with all the settings – app approvals, time limits, content filters, all that good stuff. Make it work for your family and your child’s age.
The App Hunt – Finding Educational Gems
The LUMOS TABLET doesn’t come pre-loaded with a bunch of educational apps. This means you get to pick and choose, which is great for customisation, but it does mean a little extra work. Head to the Google Play Store and start exploring!
Here are some ideas to get you started – think of them as categories, not a strict list:
Reading Readiness: Look for apps that teach letters, sounds, and early reading skills. Khan Academy Kids, ABCmouse, Starfall, and Endless Alphabet are all excellent options. Epic! is fantastic for digital books.
Math Fun: Find apps that cover counting, numbers, basic addition/subtraction, and shapes. Khan Academy Kids, Moose Math, and Math Kids are solid choices.
Science Explorers: Introduce basic science concepts – animals, plants, the human body, space! Toca Lab: Elements and Star Walk Kids are engaging and fun.
Coding for Kids (Seriously!): Even little ones can learn the basics of coding with visual programming languages. ScratchJr and Kodable are definitely worth checking out.
Creative Corner: Don’t forget apps that let them draw, make music, and tell stories. Toca Boca apps and Drawing Pad are perennial favorites.
The Bundle Bonus – Keyboard, Mouse, and Case – A Total Win!
I tested the LUMOS TABLET bundle, and I have to say, it’s a fantastic value. It comes with a Bluetooth keyboard, a mouse, and a protective case. Here’s why these extras are so great:
The keyboard and mouse completely transform the tablet. Suddenly, it feels more like a mini-laptop! This is perfect for practicing typing, using educational websites that are designed for a mouse, and even some of those coding apps. It really helps bridge the gap between tablet and “real” computer.
A case is absolutely essential. Kids drop things. It’s a fact of life. Protect your investment!
Lumos Tablet vs. The Competition- Where Does it Stand?
Compared to Dedicated Kids’ Tablets (like the Amazon Fire Kids Edition): The LUMOS TABLET gives you much more freedom and access to the entire Google Play Store. However, you must be diligent about using Family Link. Those dedicated kids’ tablets are more locked down from the start, but they can be limiting as your child grows and their interests evolve.
Compared to iPads: iPads are amazing, but they’re also expensive. The LUMOS TABLET is a significantly more budget-friendly option. And honestly, Google Family Link offers just as much control as the parental controls on an iPad. The LUMOS TABLET is only retailing at $149 or $228 for the full bundle
Compared to Other Budget Android Tablets: The LUMOS TABLET really shines because of its solid performance, clean Android experience, and, especially with the bundle, the included accessories. It’s a fantastic value for the money, and the long battery life is a major plus.
A Few Things to Remember:
You’re the Captain: You can’t just hand this tablet to your child and expect it to be magically educational and safe. You must actively use Family Link and curate the apps.
Protect That Tablet!: Even if you don’t get the bundle, invest in a good, sturdy case. You can explore options like Taobao for it!
Final Verdict – A Surprisingly Great Option for Learning (and Fun!)
The LUMOS TABLET, especially with the bundle, has been a real winner in our house. It’s affordable, flexible, and, with the power of Google Family Link, it’s a safe and surprisingly effective educational tool. It’s not a pre-packaged, perfect solution, but if you’re willing to put in a little bit of setup time, it’s a fantastic tablet that can grow with your child.
