Our experience with Kidzplay previously
We’ve visited Kidzplay Shipley before. And I first started taking my little one when she was a baby. Although it was daunting back then, as a new mum. They do have a designated space for little ones. And baby walkers to entertain the little ones. Or baby brothers and sisters, if you’re attending as a family. What I love about this is that there is also enough space to not feel like you’re getting in anybody’s way. This is essential when you visit a place to let your little ones run wild and free.
PLEASE NOTE – The session was offered free of charge, in exchange for my honest review
I can’t wait to have some time to myself. Coupled with making lasting memories with my little bundle of joy. Mummy life is definitely made better by getting out and doing fun activities. And of course, drinking a nice cup of tea – in peace.
Finally getting some Mummy time to myself
Babies need a lot of looking after, so it’s only within the last year that I can attend and actually have a coffee and eat my dinner. This time for myself to sit down and relax is valuable. And often something I simply don’t get for days on end.
The class we tried
Prior to the class, we were sent information via email to let us know what type of clothing to wear and the schedule for the two hours. As a pretty organised person, it’s great to be aware of these details before we set off.
The email confirmed the little ones would be allowed 15 minutes upon arrival to play in the soft play. And it was pretty quiet upon arrival. The kids loved running around for this part of the session. And I had time to order my food and cup of tea.
Introduction from the staff
One of the session staff introduced herself at our table and confirmed I could either stay or leave my toddler in the room. And they could make as much mess as they want. As a busy mum, someone giving you permission to relax is worth so much! Permission for my toddler to make as much mess as she wants, is also exciting got her. She kept asking whether she was allowed to make a mess and she was so happy when I said yes.
Entering the room
When we entered the room, which was at the side of the soft play. The class was set up for messy play with water. And it was impressive. I stayed for the first part and felt comfortable leaving her in the capable hands of the class leaders. Whilst I ate my sandwich and drank my cup of tea.
Returning to the class was so much fun. We ditched the shoes and socks for a really messy playtime. Standing in the water, splashing around and creating bubbles. Now my little one is a bit older, these memories are so valuable and I love spending time with her. She calls me her best friend. And I know these days don’t last forever. We make the most of every moment we have together as a family.
Any downsides
This is not a complaint, because we had such a wonderful time and I don’t mind paying for extras whenever we visit a place like this. We see it as a family day out where we spend a little bit of money to have a good time. For those unable to do this (we were unable to afford it for several years, until only recently) it’s fine to not buy food or drink – there is no pressure to do so.
It would have been good to have a kid’s drink included with the free meal they get. Even if a small additional cost is added to the package. It would just be something I didn’t have to think about asking for.
Will we be returning
We’ve already been offered a discount code and we will be returning. I can’t wait to have some time to myself. Coupled with making lasting memories with my little bundle of joy. Mummy life is definitely made better by getting out and doing fun activities. And of course, drinking a nice cup of tea – in peace.
Practical information
The centre has free parking, and accessible toilets, which are always lovely and clean. And a selection of food options on the menu…
Session times
Sessions run Monday – Friday with start times at 10am, 1pm & 3:30pm
Classes available
The centre has Den Play sessions and Discovery Play sessions available.
This time we tried the Discovery Play Sessions and we will be selecting the Den Play next time we visit.
Play, Class, Eat – Discovery Play
Enjoy a play around the extensive frame, experience one of the highly-rated children’s Authentic Play Classes and get your kids meal included! With a choice from 4 children’s favourites!
All this for £9.50!
Sessions are designed to provide “Authentic” play experiences for your little ones that you won’t find anywhere else!
DISCOUNT CODE
Use code PCEJUNE50 to get your session for just £4.75
Upcoming themes:
Week 1 (5/6): Splish Splash Splosh
Week 2 (12/6): Gloopy Gloop
Week 3 (19/6): Muddy Madness
Week 4 (26/6): Perfect Perfumes
Week 5 (3/7): Mini Picasso’s
Week 6 (10/7): Sandy Shores
Play, Class, Eat – Den Play
Enjoy a play around the extensive frame, experience one of the highly-rated children’s Authentic Play Classes and get your kids meal included! With a choice from 4 children’s favourites!
All this for £9.50!
Sessions are designed to provide “Authentic” play experiences for your little ones that you won’t find anywhere else!
Upcoming themes:
Week 1 (5/6): Camp out
Week 2 (12/6): Dino Hideout
Week 3 (19/6): A Fairy Fort
Week 4 (26/6): Kings & Queens
Week 5 (3/7): Cosmic Spaces
Week 6 (10/7): Pajama Party
How to book
You can book here – for the play.class.eat sessions, or just play.
Other play centres
Kidzplay also has other centres, in Harrogate and Leeds.
Playframe
The soft play is the most impressive one we have in our area. With two big tube slides. A race track. A football pitch and soft play areas are divided by age, it’s great.
Parties
The centre also offers parties.
Who are these classes for
There was a range of ages in the class today.
I didn’t know such places existed in the UK, but I can certainly see how useful they would be. How come they’re not open at the weekends where they’d be extra useful?
Great places to visit. I think a lot of soft play centres run parties on a weekend. Depends on the centre.
Interesting post. I don’t have a small child now so I’m passing these tips to my friends.
Aww glad you found the post useful!
This sounds like a great idea for little ones. Gives them a chance to let off some steam too! Thank you for sharing your experience.
Such a great idea for little ones x
Oh that looks like so much fun for kids! Thanks for sharing all about it!
It was the most fun we’ve had in a soft play.
This is such a fun activity for kids. I love how they have different themes each week. I’m sure your little one had a great time there 😊
The themes are great, because it means there is something for everyone.
This sounds perfect for giving you some time away from your little one and letting them have some fun and enjoy themselves in a safe and supervised space!
The supervised part gives me the freedom to feel okay with relaxing for a moment.
We used to attend soft play but they never ran activities like this, I wish they had, I would have loved some time to myself in those early days!
Aww bless you. It really is amazing, even a few moments to myself.
Ohh, this looks like so much fun. I love trying things like this with my son! Shipley is a bit far for me though.
Corinne x
I know – some of the experiences you write about are amazing. We are planning to stay in York soon and I will hopefully be trying some out.