Testimonials (We are so thankful to parents for their support & kind words)

"Doodlebugs is really something special, my daughter has attended holiday club over the past few years and she absolutely loves it! We have tried a few clubs but this is the only one she likes to attend, Mandi and Lenya have a calm nature that is instantly reassuring to the children. I would highly recommend, the price great and booking is simple. Everything about Doodlebugs is fantastic 👌" F.D August 2025 Google

Doodlebugs Arts & Crafts Wall @ Home (thank you parents for sharing) 

"Our son has been going to Doodlebugs holiday clubs and after school club for the last 2 years. Mandi and Lenya are two extremely creative, caring, kind and thoughtful people and we are very grateful for everything they have taught our son, both in arts and crafts and mindfulness, through the fun and playful space they have created. We are very lucky to have Doodlebugs here in London Colney and I thoroughly recommend the holiday and after school clubs to any parents wanting to give their child somewhere nurturing and fun to go where they can have space to express and experiment with their creativity." N.R August 2025

 

"Would 100% recommend Doodle bugs.

My daughter goes often. It’s her calm space. She comes back so relaxed and happy.

The staff are so kind and nurturing and the art work they produce with the children is amazing and gives them so much pride and confidence.

Thankyou Mandi and Lenya! You’re both amazing." K.T 22nd July 2025 Facebook

 

"Would definitely recommend doodlebugs. My son loves going here he comes home with the nicest art work. The staff are really friendly and amazing with the children," S.E 27th May 2025 Facebook

 

"Would 100% recommend doodlebugs all the staff are so lovely and my daughter has the best time every time she goes there. She comes home with the most beautiful art work and has learned so many new things! X" M.W 22nd May 2025 Facebook

 

"Loving my Thursday craft days at doodlebugs for grown ups! Everyone is very encouraging and has fun. Well done to Lenya and Mandy xx" A.C 22nd May 2025 Facebook

 

"1000% recommend Doodlebugs, its such a lovely place to go, so warm and friendly the ladies who run it and their team make everyone feel welcome. My son loves it and what the bring to the community is amazing. I always leave with a smile on my face even if I didnt arrive with one" J.E 21st May 2025 Facebook

 

"My daughter loves coming to the after school club everyone is so friendly and welcoming and her art work has improved so much." L.B 21st May 2025 Facebook

 

"Doodlebugs is absolutely wonderful! My 6yo daughter feels safe at Doodlebugs and looks forward to going! She has developed confidence in many areas. Highly recommend. Jasmine absolutely loves Doodlebugs and feels so safe and happy there. She has made friends. Learnt skills. Developed confidence in various areas. Mandi, Lenya and Yvonne are fantastic and have really taken time to get to know the 'real' Jasmine. They are a wonderful support for parents/carers too. Highly recommend, especially for anyone with Neurodiversity struggling to find the right setting. This is an all inclusive, highly caring and very safe environment for children and adults. Thank You Doodlebugs!!" M.M 21st May 2025 Facebook

 

"My daughter absolutely loves doodlebugs. Mandy, Lenya and all the helpers are so lovely. Leah always comes out saying "I love doodlebugs, can't wait till next week!" She gets a chance to do all sorts of creative things like making bracelets, drawing and colouring. Would 100% recommend to anyone." S.A 21st May 2025 Facebook

 

"My daughter loves going here and the staff are amazing . Every time she goes there , she always learns something new." T.E.B 20th May 2025 Facebook

 

"My daughter had an amazing time at the event last week. Mandy and her team made her feel safe and very comfortable. Highly recommended." P.H 16th April 2025 Facebook

 

"Collected from Bowmansgreen by two friendly and kind ladies. Walked to a secure after school setting. Craft and art activities are amazing as are the visits from the sewing lady and the PCSOs. Atmosphere is always calm, inviting, and engaging. Could not recommend highly enough!" M.N April 2025 Google

 

"Doodlebugs has been an absolute game-changer for my son! 🎨📚 Ever since he joined, his imagination and creativity have blossomed beyond my wildest dreams. He's developed a newfound passion for drawing, creating books, pictures, and even poems—something I truly have Mandi, Lenya, and the whole Doodlebugs team to thank for.  Mandi and Lenya have created such a warm and welcoming environment where my son feels completely at ease and encouraged to explore his creative side. It’s heartwarming to see the art projects he brings home, and it turns out we’ve had to raid IKEA for a new desk to accommodate all the amazing creations he continues to make!  The cherry on top? He absolutely loves the walking bus from school! 🚶‍♂️🏫 It's such a fantastic part of the service, ensuring that the kids arrive safely and excited for their time at Doodlebugs.  I can't sing enough praises for Doodlebugs—it's been a wonderful experience for our family. If you're looking for a place where your child can grow and thrive creatively, this is the place to be! Thank you, Doodlebugs, for nurturing my child’s imagination!" K.L April 2025 Google

 

"We go to the minibugs Friday sessions - perfect from walking onwards. Dressing up, painting/colouring, role play area, toys and of course some lovely ladies to chat with!!
Thank you!" E.W April 2025 Google

 

"Absolutely beautiful place for both my girls to create and make beautiful art work. A beautiful team of ladies working together to make everyone feel welcomed." S.Y February 2025 Google

 

"The kids both love doodlebugs. They come home with the most fantastic art work. Thanks for helping them learn new skills in art." H.S February 2025 Google

 

"I can't express enough how thankful I am for Doodlebugs! My little boy absolutely loves it, and it has been such a joy to see how much he has grown. His social skills have blossomed, and he has become so much more chatty and engaged with other kids. The incredible team at Doodlebugs truly makes a difference, and I am beyond grateful for their dedication and care. A huge thank you to everyone there—you are amazing! 💕" S.T.S February 2025 Google

 

"My son LOVED his ‘doodlebugs’ days this half term!! Thank you for all that you do, it’s amazing to see their creations and Tommy was proud of himself with what he made ! He loves his arts & crafts so this place is perfect and the ladies that run it, and all the volunteers that help, are wonderful ! Thank you, Doodlebugs and see you next time ! ❤️" J.P February 2025 Google

 

"It is a lovely welcoming environment my daughter looks forward to going every week and mini bugs has really built up her confidence! We love doodlebugs!" Hannah SF February 2025 Google

 

"Such an amazing place for kids to explore their artistic side. lovely, warm staff, that are patient and hands on, explaining the kids what they have to do and helping them. A great place for home educated families near St Albans." M.B 29th January 2025 Facebook

 

"This is a really lovely group, led by 2 really talented ladies who love their craft. Tailored to each individual’s interests they can guide the children through knitting, sewing, crochet, painting in different ways, map drawing & so much more. They have just opened up their home Ed group so trying to help spread the word and help children release their inner creativity

Would 100% recommend this!" E.Q 28th January 2025 Facebook

 

"Thank you so much for such a great day today - my son had the best time, it’s all he’s talked about since I picked him up and he keeps asking when he can come back. He’s currently drawing in his book! ❤️"

 

"I can't recommend Doodlebugs highly enough. Mandi Webster and Lenya Lambrou provide the calmest of environments for our children to relax and flourish, using arts and crafts. Thank you ladies, you're doing a wonderful job 👏 ❤️🐞"

 

"Sienna loves coming to doodlebugs you 2 ladies are amazing with the kids its a wonderful calm environment for our little ones ❤"

 

Reviews 2024

"Minibugs Mum and Toddler Group is absolutely fantastic! Mandy and Lenya do an amazing job creating a safe, warm, and nurturing environment where children can learn, play, and grow. The weekly classes are thoughtfully planned with rotating themes and engaging arts and crafts activities that my toddler age daughter loves. Both Mandy and Lenya are incredibly hands-on, helpful, and genuinely care for the children. It's clear how much effort they put into making this group special. Plus, the parking is easy, which is a great bonus. Highly recommend Minibugs to any parent looking for a fun and enriching experience for their little one!" S.P November 2024 Google

 

"Doodlebugs is simply wonderful!! Mandi & Lenya (plus their various volunteers) are fantastic with the kids - and parents/carers - and they actually care!!
My 6yo daughter loves Doodlebugs for after school club, and holiday club. She loves the arts & crafts... but it's even more than that. Mindfulness. Sensory areas. All inclusive. Small group. All ages and abilities. And a great way to make new friends and learn new skills.
Mandi & Lenya have been a massive support for my daughter, and she loves them, and loves going to Doodlebugs! Highly recommend it." M.M November 2024 Google

 

"5* - my daughter loves doodlebugs, the staff are absolutely fantastic and the creativity is endless!!!!! Very grateful to both Mandy and Lenya who run this superb service." N C-B November 2024 Google

 

"Doodlebugs so absolutely brilliant. My children LOVE going there. They are fun, kind, patient and super creative ladies who have taught my children some incredible skills! From kitting, to drawing and painting, to mindfulness and tuning into feelings - they are a dream. Love, love , love them!" Rosey November 2024 Google

 

"My four and five year old come here regularly and absolutely love it. They have learnt so many new creative and social skills through their time here. Mandy and Lenia who run the sessions are absolutely brilliant and amazing with the kids. The range of creative and artistic activities that are offered are exceptional. Very reasonably priced too." A.C November 2024 Google

 

"My children really love doodlebugs for their holiday club. Both Mandi and Lenya are very welcoming and my children are doing things that they would never do at home. They were able to expand their artistic flair whilst in a setting which they enjoy." N.C November 2024 Google

 

"I have been so impressed with the provision at Doodlebugs. The team are kind, caring and professional. I am always amazed at the outcome of the art projects at the end of each session. In each instance, work is tailored to suit my child. I highly recommend Mandi and her team. They are unequivocally outstanding. Many thanks for everything you have done to support my children." L.D November 2024 Google

 

"Lovely after school club and my son has asked to attend a couple of days in the summer holidays. He attends once a week and just loves the atmosphere and activities. The leaders are very engaging and supportive." L.W 25th June 2024 Facebook

 

"My daughters both love Doodlebugs. They love being able to create all different kinds of art with such lovely , experienced ladies. It's a really fun, friendly and relaxed environment." J.G 24th June 2024 Facebook

 

"My 8 year old child with SEN has recently joined the afterschool sessions, we are home educators. They are very excited to attend every session. My child is very excitable, loud and likes to move about a lot so I was unsure how they would fit in and if they would be too disturbing for the rest of the group. However Mandi and Lenya are very quietly spoken and the whole atmosphere is calming and when I collect my child they have transformed into a quiet and calm child. It's amazing! My child really enjoys the sessions and has fitted in incredibly well and has produced some wonderful artwork too. It has also given me the opportunity for some well needed respite. They would go everyday if our schedule allowed. I would recommend this wonderful group to anyone with children with all abilities. Mandi and Lenya are both very approachable if you have any queries they would be very happy to hear from you." D.C 24th June 2024 Google

 

"My son is 6 and absolutely loves doodlebugs he looks forward to every session and comes home so calm and with some beautiful art he has done the ladies are very lovely too and caring and can do pick ups from local schools highly recommend for all ages 😀" L.C 23rd June 2024 Google

 

"My son has been going to doodlebugs this year and he loves it. It is a very nurturing, caring, calm and artistic environment and he thrives in it. Thanks to everyone that makes this space a gem for children!" M.F 22nd June 2024 Google

 

"Fantastic after-school club and holiday setting! Engaging and creative activities, caring staff, and a calm and welcoming atmosphere. Highly recommend!" D.F 5th June 2024 Facebook

 

"Doodlebugs is always the favourite camp that our daughter looks forward to the most. They produce such wonderful and creative artwork!" D.S 4th June 2024 Facebook

 

"Daughter went to Doodlebugs for half term and absolutely loved it." C.C-B 2nd June 2024 Facebook

 

"My daughters love attending Doodlebugs!

My daughter has always wanted to knit and I feel lucky that I have found Doodlebugs for her and after only a few weeks, she is now knitting and learning different stitches.

Many thanks to Mandi, Liz and Lenya for providing a relaxing and fun environment for her to learn and your enormous amounts of patience.

Not forgetting the finished school projects that are produced are consistently outstanding, exceeding my expectations every time. Definitely value for money.

Highly recommend!!" K.M 28th May 2024 Facebook

 

"My 5yo daughter absolutely loves Doodlebugs!!! She really enjoys both the after school club and holiday club . Fantastic for arts & crafts, but also for emotional wellbeing and making new friends. Mandi & Lenya are fantastic... and really take time to get to know the children!!! Looking forward to half-term holiday club... XXXXXXX" M.C.M 27th May 2024 Facebook

 

"I cannot commend these ladies enough for the confidence they have given my daughter with her creativity. Tasks that would have thrown her into a pickle she takes on with ease now and even does drawings sometimes in her spare time. With school art is often seen as right or wrong, but this group teaches it as a relaxing and therapeutic outlet where there’s no one size fits all xx" J.D.N 27th May 2024 Facebook

 

"Doodlebugs is a fantastic after school and holiday provision. both my children (ages 7 & 11) really enjoy their time at Doodlebugs. Mandi & Lenya have created a wonderful nurturing creative space that inspires the young people to develop their creativity and self expression. They have brought home some gorgeous creations and always enjoy their time there. Thankyou Doodlebugs!" A.S 4th May 2024 Facebook

 

"What a warm and inclusive club Mandi and Lenya have created. My little boy joined for the first time this week, and had a blast. Thank you so much Doodlebugs!" NLW 5th April 2024 Facebook

 

"Honestly, I couldn’t speak any higher of Mandi and doodlebugs as a whole. It’s a fantastic, immersive, fun, creative environment that allows my son to truly thrive and importantly, just be himself. I would fully recommend the setting." B.C 21st March 2024 Google

 

"My daughter and son attended today for the first time and they totally loved their day. They were so proud of their art work and creative crafts at the end of the day.

My son struggles with camps and refuses to go, today he had no issue staying and asked if I would book for the next mid term on the way home in the car. The ladies are just beyond fantastic with the kids, so caring and focuses on each child's individual needs to settle.

It's such a wonderful calming environment for kids, especially if they don't enjoy the muti sport type sessions.

The smile on my kids face when I collected them said it all. Would highly recommend Doodlebugs.x " M.D.B 19th February 2024 Facebook

 

Reviews 2023

"My daughter has been to the doodlebugs holiday club a few times now and she absolutely loves it! She can be very shy and it takes a lot for her to actually ask to attend a club for a whole day, but she asks to attend doodlebugs. In fact this is the only club she’s ever asked to attend! It’s such a calm and creative environment as apposed to other clubs I’ve seen that seem very chaotic and noisy. Mandy and Lenya really ensure that the children have time and opportunity to create what they want to create. My daughter is always so proud to show off what she’s made (and rightly so!) 😊" N.A 22nd December 2023 Facebook

 

"Our two boys love going to Doodlebugs and even ask to go extra days. The artwork they have brought home as been amazing and given them confidence in their abilities. I would highly recommend for any child to attend Doodlebugs. Mandi & Lenya are really accommodating and engage with all the children to make them believe anything is possible". L.L 25th November 2023 Facebook

 

"A perfect environment for kids without the pressures of technology (which they have too much of these days).
My 10 year old son absolutely loved it, made new friends and Mandi and Lenya are amazing with the kids.

A perfect medium where the kids enjoy themselves and without even realising it, they are improving on their:
- Fine motor skills (using the small muscles in their hands & fingers),
- Ability to be innovative, creative & original (key attributes to individual success)
- Developing a core sense of self-esteem & expression
- Being able to think outside the box and come up with new ways of completing a task
- Most importantly their "mental health", they are in an environment where they are free to express themselves.

Ladies - he is still singing the "Doodlebugs version" of "Don't stop me now".... :-), don't be surprised if the adults are singing your catchy tunes too.

Thank you Doodlebugs and see you very soon." K.H 24th August 2023 Google

 

"Doodlebugs has been simply amazing for my five year old daughter. It’s the best thing that has happened to her 😊 as she loves art and crafts and doodlebugs provide such a wonderful loving supporting environment. She feels absolutely safe and secure and is able to relax and do her arts and crafts with her favourite teachers. She is not one to stay happily for hours at school or any other club but absolutely begs me to send her to doodlebugs full time. Our family has been so impressed by the camp and the wonderful teachers. So so thankful for the love and support for Ahanaa." P.S 23rd August 2023 Facebook

 

"The Doodlebugs teachers have been absolute diamonds this summer holiday. Twice they've booked us onto a session at the last minute - our daughter loves her time at Doodlebugs" S.M 23rd August 2023 Facebook

 

"Very supportive, it’s a lovely calm and creative space for kids to explore, connect, have fun and express themselves positively and genuinely.
My kids have never, ever wanted to go to holiday clubs or after school, and even though they’ve done them (as we’ve had to) they’ve been tolerated at best.
They can’t get enough of Doodlebugs! They are up and ready every time, excited to get there, and can’t wait to start the afterschool club too. They’ve been going since this started and I can honestly recommend it, a genuinely caring, nurturing, calm place." M.P August 2023