If you’re anything like me, you’re giddy at the thought of an unexplored indoor play space to take your kids on rainy Seattle afternoons. Even though we’re headed into summer, I’m always excited to have somewhere new to visit when the inevitable summer storms hit.
With that in mind, my husband and I recently took our kids (ages 2 and 5) to the new-ish HECA Play Lab in Ballard. We got there first thing on a Sunday morning and were pleasantly surprised by the initial feel of the space. Having opened in January of this year, the climbing apparatus and toys are new and well-maintained, and the floors and bathroom were gleaming (a major plus for this self-described germophobe!). There’s a designated space in the front for eating/drinking, and they do have beverages and pre-packaged snacks such as fruit pouches and bars for sale. HECA Play Lab is also nut-free.
When I explored the website prior to our trip, I was excited to read that the space is intended for children ages 2-8. Lately I’ve noticed that some of our familiar rainy-day haunts seem to appeal more to my two-year-old, but at the same time, he’s not quite ready for more structured options (such as art classes or museums) that my five-year old daughter would now really enjoy. Reminiscent of a mini-Children’s Museum, the space is divided into thematic areas like a kitchen/grocery store, an indoor play structure, and a room with a mini stage, dress-ups, and musical instruments.
After we signed in, my kids took off their shoes (socks required for kids and grown-ups!) and scattered in different directions to explore. I must admit that at first glance the space seemed a little sparse; yes, it was well-maintained, but would it hold their attention for more than 20 minutes? My kids however, were each immediately engrossed in activities. After about an hour it occurred to me that they were playing better than they typically do at home.
HECA play lab does a nice job of not overwhelming kids with too many options and sensory experiences. There’s room to breathe and run around, and the space felt light and airy, unlike some play spaces and kid’s museums with too many choices, rooms, and experiences to choose from.
If I’m being honest, watching my kids play independently for almost two hours prompted me to consider how many “options” I could eliminate from our play spaces at home! I also really appreciated that the owner worked to continually refresh the areas, putting objects back after kids were done. I’m all for encouraging my kids to pick up after themselves, but I noticed that all the kids came back to areas again and again since they were not totally messy.
My husband and I were basically able to sit back and watch our kids play quite autonomously and since the space is small, our kids were free to move around as they pleased. Due to the size of the space and its play options, it is probably best for 2 to 6-year-olds; an older child may lose interest more quickly and/or find that they were too big for some of the choices.
As we walked to the car, both kids said they really liked the space…victory for these parents!
IF YOU GO:
Where: 7033 15th Avenue Northwest, Unit E, Seattle, Washington 98117
When: Tuesday to Friday, 9:30 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.; Saturday and Sunday, 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Space is also available for private event rentals like birthday parties!
Cost: 10.50 for first child (includes 2 adult companions); 7.00 for each additional child. Memberships are also available.
