A SPACE-inspired play area has opened in North Baddesley for young kids to try new and creative activities.
Arthur’s Play Space launched at All Saints Church this month, following the closure of Little Saints Community Pre-School.
Year one teacher Naomi Arthur and teaching assistant Alice Craycott left their jobs at Romsey Primary School to create the business and provide a learning space for children up to six years.
Mrs Arthur used to go to Little Saints Pre-School and grew up in North Baddesley so the location was a great fit.
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Co-owner Alice said: “When we decided to do something together, we wanted it to be part of the community and you can’t get a more community location than a church.
“The play space has been massively helpful to people as there aren’t many play cafes around. The feedback has been amazing and all the reviews have said it’s needed in the area. It was definitely he right thing for us to do.
“There have been lots of people who were at the pre-school who’ve come here and seen what we have done with the space. We have lots of stuff for babies and parents can come down and chat with us. Often parents come in by themselves and end up making friends.
“The launch was overwhelming but truly amazing. We’re feeling quite positive about the future and we’ve been nearly fully booked over the past few days.”
As well as play equipment Naomi and Alice are arranging special events such as CPR training for parents, toy car washes, baby bathing areas, story time and petting zoos.
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The main features inside such as the sensory den, baby area, role play zone and construction area will predominantly stay the same but the business duo hope to keep evolving the outdoor space.
Arthur’s Play Space was named in memory of Naomi’s husband and fellow teacher Sam Arthur.
Adults can visit for free and enjoy the café’s hot drinks and sweet treats while the little ones play.
Walk-ins are allowed subject to availability. Admission costs £2 for ‘non-crawlers’, £4 for ‘non-walkers’ and £8 for walkers with additional toddlers costing £6.
Fees remain the same whether kids are spending five minutes or five hours at the play area at All Saints Church.
Arthur’s Play Space is open 9.30am-5.30pm Monday to Wednesday and Friday to Saturday. For more information go to arthursplayspace.com/.
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