EARLY YEARS: Indoor play studio in Daleville offers special spot for parents and children to connect

DALEVILLE, Va. (WDBJ) - It’s always recess time at Grow Wild Play Studio in Daleville.

Owner Chelsey Craft is a mom herself and certified in maternal newborn nursing.

“So, moms and babies are kind of my heart and my passion,” says Craft.

Once Craft had her daughter, she says she started thinking about finding a safe space for moms and other caregivers to bring small children to connect and have fun.

“I know a few playrooms will have some of the things we have in here. But a lot of the climbers, parents just don’t have space or the time to put stuff together But moms will joke a few of the smaller things they have at home the kids won’t touch it at home but they come here and they go straight to whatever it is,” says Craft.

Toy choices are made to encourage interactive and imaginative play, and the space itself is aesthetically soothing.

“When you come in the door, it’s just like that breath of like- okay, like it’s not a crazy bright, over-stimulated environment,” says Craft.

While kids play and discover, parents can connect with each other.

“So moms will bring in coffee. We have a little coffee bar. They kind of sit on the outskirts, connect to WiFi, do some work,” says Craft.

“It’s a couple of groups on Facebook that had never met before, and they have found this space as a gathering spot to bring their kids in a safe environment.”

And a supportive one to enjoy these early years.

Reservations are required.