Soft Play and the Five Senses
We're diving into a world where squishy meets sensory: Soft Play! It's not just a bunch of colourful foam blocks. It's an adventure for your little one's five senses. Let's explore how soft play areas, like the ones at Tenpin, are perfect for touch, sight, sound, smell, and taste (well, maybe not taste, unless you treat them to some tasty food after playtime).
First off, why are we chatting about senses? It's simple: Sensory play is important for your kiddo's development. It's like a workout for their brain and skills faster than you can say "Where are my keys?". Plus, it's a blast! At soft play, every jump, squish, and slide is a chance for them to learn and grow.
Now, let's jump in – literally! We're about to discover how soft play tickles each sense and makes for a fab day out. Buckle up, it's going to be a fun ride!
1. Touch: The Power of Squish
First up, is the sense of touch. Soft play areas are like a big, squishy hug for your little one's sense of touch. Everything is soft, squishy, and safe to explore. From the gentle resistance of a foam block to the surprising squish of a cushioned floor, every texture invites little hands (and feet) to explore and understand the world around them.
Think about the joy on their faces when they dive into a ball pit. Those little plastic balls are more than just fun to throw around (though let's be honest, that's pretty great). They're teaching your child about pressure, texture, and the delightful sensation of being surrounded by a sea of colourful spheres.
But it's not all about softness. There's variety here too! Rougher textures, like rope bridges and rubber mats, add a bit of spice to the touchy-feely adventure. This mix helps kids understand and appreciate different sensations, all while having the time of their lives.
2. Sight: A Treasure of Fun
Next, let's feast our eyes on the visual treats of soft play. These places are like a rainbow with bright colours, wacky patterns, and playful shapes to make a visual party for your little one.
The vibrant hues aren't just pretty to look at; they're also great for your child's visual development. Identifying colours, following moving objects (like a rolling ball or a scampering friend), and navigating through mazes help sharpen their visual skills. Plus, it's like watching a live-action cartoon, and who doesn't love that?
Plus, there’s the dynamic nature of soft play – kids zooming around, balls flying, and lights twinkling to create an ever-changing landscape. This keeps your little one's visual attention locked in, making each visit a unique experience.
3. Sound: Echoes of Laughter
Now, let's lend an ear to the sounds of soft play. It's not just noise; it's a symphony of fun! The background buzz of kids chatting, the thud of little feet on foam mats, and the whoosh of tiny bodies zooming down slides create a lively soundtrack.
These sounds help your child's auditory development which is very handy. Distinguishing different sounds (like the difference between a giggle and a shout) and understanding where they're coming from are key skills. And let's not forget the laughter – your child's and others. It's contagious, heartwarming, and the best sound of all.
Plus, soft play areas often have music or sound effects, adding another layer to the auditory adventure. Whether it's playful tunes or the sound of a faux waterfall, these sounds enrich the environment and keep the vibes joyful and energetic.
4. Smell: The Scent of Adventure
This might surprise you – soft play areas have their own unique smells. It's a blend of newness from the equipment, the faint scent of cleaning products (because cleanliness is king), and the overall freshness of a well-kept play area. It's the smell of a new adventure every time your child steps in.
Smells might not be the first thing you think of in a soft play area, but they contribute to the experience. A clean, fresh environment is comforting and inviting, making both kids and parents feel at ease. Plus, the delicious wafts of snacks and drinks we serve add to the sensory mix.
But it's not just about the play area. The smells of home – like your perfume or the fabric softener on their clothes – provide a familiar comfort amidst the newness. It's a subtle reminder of safety and love, grounding them in this sensory-rich world.
5. Taste: Snack & Lunchtime Surprises
Lastly, we're nibbling on the sense of taste. Now, we don't recommend tasting the play equipment (please don't!), but food and drink are a big part of the soft play experience. At Tenpin, there are yummy treats to enjoy, turning lunch into an extension of the sensory journey.
Whether it's the sweet taste of our popular slush puppies, the savory crunch of crisps, or the creamy coldness of ice cream, these snacks are more than just tummy fillers. They're a sensory experience, teaching your kids about different flavors and textures. Plus, it's a great opportunity for a little break and some parent-child bonding time. If you decide to stay for lunch or dinner, don't miss out on our delicious burgers, hot dogs, and nuggets to refuel and continue enjoying your day
And let's not forget the social aspect of snack and meal time. Sharing snacks, deciding what to eat for lunch, and chatting about their play adventures all add to the day's excitement. It's the cherry on top of a sensory-rich, fun-filled day out.
A Closer Look at Tenpin's Soft Play Areas
And now, let's spotlight the star of our show: Tenpin's Soft Play Areas! If you're wondering what makes Tenpin's soft play so special, you're in for a treat. These aren't just any old play areas; they're custom-designed areas that take sensory play to the next level.
Firstly, Tenpin's soft play areas are a visual delight. They're packed with vibrant colours and engaging designs that are a delight for the eyes. Whether it's the bright blues, popping pinks, or electric yellows, each element will captivate and stimulate your child's visual senses. The playful themes, from jungle adventures to under-the-sea explorations, ignite their imagination, making every visit an exciting story to unfold in the world of pretend play.
But it's not just about looking pretty. Tenpin's soft play areas are safe havens with cushioned floors, secure equipment, and structures designed for safe climbing, jumping, and exploring. As a parent, you can relax (well, as much as one can with an energetic little one!) knowing they’ll be ok as they have a great time.
And let's talk about the variety! Tenpin's soft play offers a diverse range of textures and structures, ensuring that there's something for every child. From squishy foam blocks to smooth slides and everything in between, a variety of textures will surround them so they can explore different sensations. This will help them develop their sense of touch and physical coordination which is very beneficial!
Pricing and Timing
Tenpin offers fantastic value for a world of fun. The pricing varies depending on the time and age of your little adventurer:
Toddlers (1 & 2 years): For off-peak times (Monday to Friday, last booking at 5 pm), the cost is £3 During peak times (Saturday, Sunday, and school holidays, last booking at 6:30 pm), the price is £5.25
Juniors (3 to 12 years): The off-peak price is £4 and the peak price is £7.25.
This pricing ensures that you can choose a time that suits both your schedule and your wallet.
What's Included
Each session at Tenpin's Soft Play offers:
- Two hours of fun-filled playtime for the kids.
- Comfortable seating for parents to relax and unwind.
- Colourful wristbands to identify session times.
- Assurance of a fully sanitized play area every night for safety and hygiene.
- Age and Height Restrictions
Ready to find the nearest Tenpin Soft Play?
Crewe
Dudley
Dundee
Feltham
Gloucester
Stafford
These locations offer easy access to the world of sensory fun and development for your little ones
So, why wait? Head on over to Tenpin's soft play and let your little ones dive into a world of sensory delight. It's time to play, explore, and make those magical moments that you'll cherish forever. See you there!