Frequently Asked Questions
Unsure if Spirited Play Labs is right for your family? Let us answer some questions!
Playspace FAQ:
Can I stop by Spirited Play Labs anytime?
Both First Time Visits and Members are required to pre-register for open play using the website or Mindbody app.
My child plays loudly, is disabled, or has behavioral concerns. Iāve struggled with feeling shamed and unwelcomed in other play spaces. How is SPL different?
We know what itās like to have a sensory, medically, or behaviorally different child.Ā We intentionally created this space for children just like yours. Inclusion is our core philosophy. Every member of our staff is either a childhood development professional, or is in school to become one. We train all of our Support Staff on problem-solving + de-escalation for when friction arises. We also have many locations around our center that allow you to find comfort during a meltdown, overstimulation, or episode before you get back to play.
Does my child have to be disabled to visit SPL?
Everyone is welcome, no matter their ability, race, sensory needs, or development. Please note that our play space was specifically built to be one of the safe spaces for children who have needs not met in other public childrenās spaces. Many families come to SPL because they feel shamed, judged, or unwelcome at places like parks or busy play centers. There will be times youāll meet families along the many spectrums of disability, development, those with autism, Down Syndrome, and beyond – who look, sound, act, and play in their own way!
My child was just recently diagnosed and I feel a little lost on who to talk to or where to go. Does SPL have resources for me?
We have one of the greatest resources parents like you could ever ask for: other parents. SPL offers the community and care that special needs parents desperately seek during their early days of diagnosis. Many of our Visitors and Members have been where you are today – their first diagnosis, their first IEP meeting, or their first time considering pediatric therapy. The companionship of special needs parents is something that has been lost over the years, and weāre here to foster those important relationships back to life with our inclusive open play, chats, and member events.
What are the rules of your play space?
In short: be kind! There is no wrong way to play here. Our centers and toys have no bounds or limits. Go up the slide, play with the toys your own way – your child canāt get into trouble here! We just ask that you be mindful of those around you. Safe play can look a lot of different ways so we are open to all of the authentic ways that children can have fun.
What are the ages welcome at SPL?ā
Our play space is ideal for children between the ages of 18 months to 8 years old. Please note, we can make exceptions for older children with developmental disabilities; please email us for an exception. If your child is under 18 months, please be aware that we have older children with decreased spatial awareness, and therefore your child may not be safe playing on the floor without supervision.
Weekday mornings are ideal for our younger crowd, midday is ideal for all ages with increased sensory or behavioral needs, and afternoon and Saturdays are for all ages.
Can I drop my child off to this play space?
We require parents supervise their their children when playing in our play space. We are not able to babysit or supervise your child without you present.
Must everyone take off shoes?
We ask that children and caregivers take off shoes before entering the play space. If this is difficult for your child, please notify the front desk for alternatives. Socks are not required.
Am I able to bring in food for my child?
Yes, food and drink are allowed in the Spirited Play Labs eating area and banquette. You can see our entire Play Space Tour here!
Membership FAQ:
Do I get access to all locations with a membership?
Members can access all SPL locations. Please note, regional centers will only cover one location for membership.
Is the membership a family membership or do I need a separate one for each of my two children?
Memberships include all members of the immediate family unit – no extra fees per child!
What's the difference between Open Play and Therapeutic Play?
Open Play is our standard membership which gives families access to our physical space, community of members, and weekly offerings from local specialists.Ā
For families seeking a more hands-on experience, we recommend Therapeutic Play. This Membership offers twice per month scheduled appointments with an SPL Play Coach. Our Play Coaches are DIR/Floortime trained and provide support with social engagement, language building, and problem solving while in the play space. This offering is ideal for children who are not yet “ready” for a social group, or seeking social skills therapy that involves the parent and uses a child-led approach.
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