At the new Wonder World Play Cafe in Livonia, creating a space for parents to unwind and connect was just as important as creating an engaging play space for little ones.
Owner Naadean Ibrahim, mom of a 4-year-old Ramez and 3-year-old Zahraa, says creating a mature space for parents, especially moms, was especially meaningful for her.
“The play places I used to take my kid to, there wasn’t a space for me to feel like I belonged,” Ibrahim says.
Read more: Top Metro Detroit Indoor Play Places for Kids to Jump Around
Now, parents who come to Wonder World to give their kids a chance to play are given a special space for themselves. A fully functional cafe is built into the experience, so moms can leave feeling refreshed.
“Seeing moms sit down and watch their kids play and grabbing a cup of coffee and working on their laptop or reading a book–that’s something I craved so bad,” she says.
As for the kids’ space, little ones can explore six themed stations with names like wonder, experiment, explore and unwind. There, kids will find developmentally appropriate toys with a STEM or Montessori focus.
“One of my personal favorites is the unwind section,” Ibrahim says. “My son was very reserved when he was younger and when he would go to places, he would stay by my side for awhile, and observe.”
“So for kids like that, there’s books and Toniebox Headphones and it’s just a calming corner,” she adds.
Built by a family, for families
Ibrahim’s whole family worked together to make the space what it is. Her dad and brother constructed the playhouses and her two children “helped” with their play tools and swept up.
Naadean’s mother is also involved as an unofficial expert consultant, bringing her more than 25 years of teaching experience to the project.
“I did my own research, but my mom went to school to teach kindergarten students, so she really helped me design the spaces and what toys would benefit which age groups,” she says. “Every time I have a question she is so excited when I come to her–she’s very knowledgeable.”
Incorporating Montessori principles and STEM ideas into the space was extremely important to Ibrahim.
“We really offer a place for like-minded moms to connect and unwind,” she says. “Parents who really care about what goes into their kids’ play and the benefit of it, where they can eat healthy snacks with nontoxic ingredients.”
Since Wonder World’s opening last month, parents are already forming relationships.
“On Father’s Day, two moms came in and connected and took each other’s numbers and set a date to come back,” she says. “It’s so nice to offer that to other moms.”
Parents can bring their kids for a 2-hour open play session with CPR and Montessori-trained staff. There’s also the option to purchase a membership for unlimited play, 10 percent off cafe items and other perks.
The business offers the option for parties and events, too. A package includes fun themes, food, drinks, a dedicated party host and options for add-ons like hands-on activities.
Quick details about Wonder World Play Cafe
- Address: 39325 Plymouth Road, Suite 106, Livonia
- Hours: Sunday and Monday, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.; Tuesday to Thursday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.; Friday and Saturday, 9 a.m. to 7 p.m.
- Cost: Open play $17.99, but free for 0-18 months and $10 for 18-24 months; memberships $60/month or $450/year; parties and events start at $400.
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