Play - why the space matters

Jo
Jun 22
2 min read

One thing people often say to us the first time they visit the Playhub is that they didn't realise it would be so big inside. This is something we have tried to show across our social media platforms and on our website but it has always been hard to capture the feeling of space and the feeling of comfort.

We recently asked the question "how would you describe the Playhub" and the replies we received really helped us to see exactly what Be Weird Be Wild Be Wonderful Playhub means to you.

We are so incredibly proud of the community we have created, we love to see your little ones explore the space and each week grow in confidence.

The feeling of home is one that is rooted in our core, we want you to feel comfortable enough that you could just stay all day if you needed to (as some of our members do )

The team all get it, they understand that sometimes people just need a moment to breathe and a moment to reset. We are always here to help in anyway we can.

We concentrate on making sure the Playhub is welcoming, not just by the greeting from team but also the play environment itself. I talk to people about the feeling of overwhelm when they walk into somewhere, and an example I always use is the Next sale on Boxing day (only because I have been there at 5am in all the madness that is half price children's clothes)

Bright colours and visually loud 50% off signs
Lots of people pushing into you
Clothes all messed up, on the floor and not in any order
Finding something you like and it not being the correct size
Queues leading to frustration

I can mentally put myself there and feel a sense of overwhelm already, this is why we make sure the environment we offer for play is as calming and clear as it possible can be with children under the age of 5.

Space - a ceiling height that lifts the sound and gives a sense of openness.
Visuals that are aesthetically calming.
Resources that are organised an offered in a way where play can flourish.
Using sofas within the Playspace gives a familiar feeling and brings you into their play.
Open ended resources - offers play opportunities without restrictions
Familiar play - Confidence comes by exploring what they know and testing new play ideas.

I could go on but my point is there is so much more around the topic of play and I would love to explore this further with you, through my regular blogs.

But can I ask a favour first...