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Sometimes you are facing a deadline and there is no one to watch your children. There is a new trend popping up over the country that may just offer a solution. They are indoor playgrounds combined with a café.

These hybrid businesses offer something appealing to two different groups. Perfect for children 12 and under they generally have slides, climbing structures, and ball crawls. They are usually full service coffee shops as well, offering free wireless internet and lattes. Some even offer soups and sandwiches, making it someplace you can spend quite a bit of time at.

Even though my daughter is only 1 ½ I decided to check one out, in the name of research of course. All children need to have an adult with them in order to get in. It is not a drop off and leave your child type of place, as they do not offer babysitting services. Admission is free for adults and based on age for children.

The center in my area has a three story play structure that is enclosed with mesh walls for safety. They also have a toddler area for smaller children. There are tables for eating and working at, as well as an area with big comfy chairs.

The coffee shop part of the store offers the perfect menu for adults and children alike. A café mocha for mom and chocolate milk for the kids. They have everything from peanut butter and jelly sandwiches to a turkey wrap.

I noticed a few moms working on their laptops while their children happily played. My daughter is definitely too young to go off and play by herself but I know this type of place will come in very handy in the future.

Do you have someplace similar to this near you? Do you find it handy for getting work done while your children play? Don’t forget to spend some time playing with your kids!

Warmly,
Mia