Children's Lives
The Children's Lives section is where you can find out about different aspects of the history of childhood. The information on these pages has been put together using our childhood archives and reserve collection.
East End Lives
The London Boroughs of Tower Hamlets, Hackney and Newham are more popularly known as the East End. This area has become one of the most culturally diverse areas in Britain, a result of a long history of migration and movement.
Edwardian Lives
Edwardian childhood is both a surprisingly long way off and quite near. We have plenty of evidence of its material culture, and some of us have even grown up with Edwardian relatives.
Education & Creativity
Creativity is the ability to challenge, question and explore. Many educators have focused on the importance of play and creativity in learning.
Holidays & Entertainment
The seaside is a popular form of entertainment for children with the pleasures of swimming, picnics and Punch and Judy shows; Helen Shapiro talks about her childhood in the East End; find out about Dan Jones' painting 'The Singing Playground'; and read about the most popular and iconic toys of the last 100 years.
Nursery Rhymes & Lullabies
Nursery rhymes and lullabies have been sung to children for thousands of years and passed down through many generations.
Parlour Games
Parlour games are played indoors and are meant to involve groups of children. Very popular in Victorian times, they usually involve word play, memory, dramatic skill and physical activity.
Health & Work
In the 19th century children often went to work to help support their families. Many children suffered terrible illnesses and injury due to their working conditions.
