Top five tips for surviving in a play centre

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Getting stuck in at a playcentre

When I first stepped foot into a children's play centre a few years ago I thought I'd walked into a zoo. A zoo filled with children out of their minds on sugar. The music was booming and the place smelt of dirty nappies and greasy food.  The children were climbing over each other inside ball filled containment areas or running headlong into cushioned walls. The strobe lighting gave me a headache and the couple next to me were having a heated debate about an episode of Jeremy Kyle.

Despite all of this, the little man loved the place and since then we've spent at least one afternoon a month in a play centre.

Over the years my feelings towards play centres have changed. Maybe my senses have been dulled because of repeated exposure or maybe it's because the first play centre we visited was on the more 'scary' end of the spectrum. But, I'm now able to enjoy our time at the play centre almost as much as the little man.

Here are my top five tips for surviving in a play-centre:
  1. Embrace the chaos - The playcentre can be quiet overwhelming when you first walk in, particularly because of the noise level. It's fine though and your ears and eyes will adjust so just take a seat and take it all in.
  2. Dress distinctively  - Due to the sheer volume of children in a play centre. It is likely that you might lose sight of your child for a few minuets. Worry not, play centres are camera filled, door locked fortresses and the chances are you'll find them rolling around in the soft play area in no time. To avoid a cardiac-arrest,  dress your child in an easy to spot outfit and ensure that they know where you are at all times.
  3. Sneak in a picnic - Play centre food is overpriced and (usually) unhealthy. To avoid the aforementioned sugar crazed child, bring your own healthy snacks. This will also help you to save the pennies for your next trip.
  4. Bring a book - or a magazine, or a crossword. The children have more than enough entertainment in a play-centre so seize the opportunity for a bit of 'me' time.
  5. Get stuck in - Yes, adults inside the play centre's child containment area is frowned upon. But, it sure is fun! Jump in and enjoy. 


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