Nikki Skinner, alongside husband Russell, was inspired to launch Nikki’s Little Play Café in direct response to the challenges she has faced in taking her children out to play. As a mother of two boys, Nikki soon noticed that one of her sons, Joseph, displayed behaviours that were different to his peers. By the time Joseph had reached his toddler years, Nikki and Russel were certain that he was autistic. Joseph exhibited many of the classic signs of autism and, as his unique qualities became more apparent to the rest of the world, Nikki found herself longing for a space where she could engage with Joseph creatively. Then, one of the local businesses retired and the second chose to sell her business. Nikki seized the opportunity, taking over Moo Music, a beloved franchised owned by Libby Chambers. Nikki successfully relaunched Moo Music within her community, and kickstarted her career in the early childhood education and entertainment industry. Nikki’s great success with Moo Music meant she built an unshakeable, trustworthy reputation as a compassionate educator and entertainer, delivering joy to children and their families. When she realised she wanted to introduce a place that allowed children of all abilities to play together, Nikki created the perfect space. Her shining reputation has undoubtedly carried over into the popularity of Nikki’s Little Play Café. Nikki’s Little Play Café continues to host Moo Music sessions so that families can participate in the fun, engaging program designed to foster creative thinking in young minds. It’s evident that Nikki’s dream, initiated by Moo Music, has evolved into a wonderful reality for her, and the families that enjoy Moo Music and Nikki’s Little Play Café. Looking back at her incredible journey, Nikki says, “Nikki’s Little Play Café has become a beloved destination for families seeking a nurturing atmosphere. With a focus on embracing diversity and catering to various needs, the café has exceeded expectations.” So, what exactly makes Nikki’s Little Play Café so different from other soft play centres across the country? That would be Nikki’s unwavering commitment to creating an enriching, inclusive environment that is accessible to all, regardless of their ability or background. The play centre, which has been designed with the needs of neurodivergent children in mind, is a relaxing atmosphere that encourages children to tap into their creativity without feeling overwhelmed by their surroundings. “The bespoke soft play area, carefully designed with muted colours, offers a sensory sympathetic experience for little ones,” Nikki tells us. “Families can enjoy soft play sessions, host birthday parties, attend classes, and even grab drinks, snacks, and cakes at the café.” The café has the capacity to accommodate a large number of guests, but this will never be the case for Nikki’s Little Play Café. The company places an emphasis on holding a maximum of 20 children at a time to allow all children mental and physical space to explore the area without feeling overwhelmed, overcrowded, or pressured. After carefully looking into how sounds move around the space, limiting numbers, and creating the perfect colour schemes, Nikki’s Little Play Café has created a safe space where children of all abilities can have fun and play as equals – feeling supported however they need in every moment. Feeling overwhelmed is very natural, however, and the café has procedures in place to prepare for this event. Any children feeling overwhelmed are free to retreat to the Sensory Haven room to decompress, or alternatively can receive a visit from Rosie the Basset Hound, who is always on hand to have individual time with the children. Nikki’s Little Play Café has firmly established itself as a pillar of the community with drop-in advice sessions available, a book swap nook, and a section for pre-loved clothes for those in need, in addition to making numerous donations directly to local children’s charities. What’s more, Nikki’s Little Play Café has done a remarkable job of understanding of the diverse needs of neurodivergent children and has gone to tremendous efforts to create a safe space for the families in the Dorset community. It is irrefutable that Nikki’s Little Play Café has been deservedly recognised as the Best Soft Play Centre 2024 – Dorset. For more information about the centre and its services, visit Nikki’s Little Play Café’s website now. Contact: Nicola Skinner Company: Nikki’s Little Play Café Web Address: https://nikkislittleplaycafe.co.uk/ When we think of children’s soft play centres, we often envision somewhere loud and brightly coloured, brimming with countless children sprinting around at full speed. What are described as fun centres for children to develop their creativity and social skills are often overwhelming sensory nightmares for many. This was the case for the Skinner family, who dreamed of a calmer, muted space that was sympathetic to the senses and allowed their children to truly explore their imaginations. Below, we speak with Nikki Skinner, mother and Founder of Nikki’s Little Play Café, to hear more. Best Soft Play Centre 2024 - Dorset
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