Review of Wee Play
Review by Julianne Hamilton
January 28, 2008
441 Carlisle Drive, Suite A
Herndon, Virginia 20170
703.870.7400
Google Map
The bottom line: Going to Wee Play makes you feel like you are visiting your very organized friend that has dedicated her house to children. Your kids get to make a huge mess and when the hour is up, you get to go home with satisfied children and a still-clean house.
The philosophy: To offer innovative activity classes designed for children walking to 5 years and their parents or caregivers and encourage creativity in the interactions between and among them.
The place: The play area is divided into different stations. A big area (about a quarter of a basketball court) is for active play- little cars to ride, bouncy balls to sit on, balls to roll and throw, etc. A half wall keeps the equipment and children contained while parents keep watch. The surrounding stations include a play kitchen complete with ice cream cones and other fun play foods. A “tchotchke” area includes metal and wood objects like napkin rings, bird stands, key rings, colorful pom-pom balls, sand filled plastic eggs, muffin tins and more. This spot is intended for the youngest kids, but all ages love playing with these random objects. There are also tables for painting and for play dough and even a magnet and hammering station.
Free play offers the entire place as a “free for all” where children can run wild and go to any area that attracts them.
There are two bathrooms, both of which are very clean. One bathroom has a changing table complete with wipes, diapers (in all sizes!) and plastic bags to dispose stinky messes. The sinks have nice sized steps for little ones to reach the faucets.
All rooms are painted in bright, cheerful colors. The floors are wood, linoleum and carpet covered where children will sit on the floor to play. Everything is immaculate. The stations are kept organized and everything looks attractive to the children.
The players:
The Director and owner, Kathy Brennan, has a degree is in Physical Education and taught K-5. She developed and started teaching Wee Play classes 6 years ago and opened the current studio in September 2006. She has a 21-year old son and twin 19-year old daughters. Kathy stays involved with all activities to make sure everything runs smoothly. She and her staff are friendly to all newcomers and have a nice following of regulars. She is easy to contact and happy to address questions and concerns.
This gym is geared toward the five and younger crowd. All classes require parental or caregiver participation. The place has enough stations and activities to please all ages and stages. The kids are very turned on by all the things to do. Free play is one hour long, once a week on Wednesdays from 4pm-5pm. This hour flew by so fast the kids didn't want to leave.
Classes: The classes begin with one station to get warmed up and move to a more structured class environment with caretaker participation throughout. Circle time includes puppets and instruments. Classes incorporate parachute play, art projects and games. The open gym area is used after the structured period. Classes finish up with a snack and closing ceremony that includes chasing bubbles. This is a nice precursor to pre-school structure. Classes are offered for ages walking to 5 years- etiquette classes go to 6 years old. There is an Art in Hand class that specializes in painting and art projects. Visit the website or call for more information.
Birthday parties: Parties run by professional teachers are available on weekends. Themes include: Princess, pirates, zoo/jungle animals, under the sea/beach party, dance party, solar system/space, messy art, and more. They will individualize the party to your child's age and interests. Parties include: set-up, circle time, art projects, all play activities, paper products, clean up included. You bring the cake and refreshments. A special deal with Papa John's Pizza is available.
The rules:
- Parents must supervise their child(ren) at all times.
- Cell phones are discouraged; please set your phone to vibrate and take your call in the lobby.
- Dress your child appropriately for active and sometimes messy activities.
- Soft-soled shoes are to be worn by everyone at all times. (adults and children)
- Classes are divided into 10 - 15 minute segments to allow for different temperaments and attention spans. If your child is not ready to participate, please take him/her to the lobby and join us for the next segment. Please do not go in the activity room while waiting.
- No sick kids. Temperatures should be normal for 24 hours before returning to group activity.
Cost:
- Open Play (just drop-in): $5 per child for currently enrolled families; $10 for 1 child, $18 for 2 children for families not currently enrolled in one of Wee Play's classes. Punch cards available: 5 visits for $40.
- Class costs vary per class, so please check the web site for more information. Twins and siblings receive a discount. Register a second child or for a second class and take $30 off your total fee. Discounts are available in exchange for assistance with craft prep.
- Parties cost $300 for a 90-minute party for 15 children, adults free, $12 for each additional child, and $50 for an additional 30 minutes. A $50 discount is offered for families currently enrolled in a Toddler, Pee Wee, or Wee Play class: $250 for a 90-minute party. A $125 non-refundable deposit is required to reserve a party. The balance is due on the day of the party.
The perks: No membership fees. Accommodates younger ages while the older ones don’t get bored. Provides a fun and friendly atmosphere. Parking is easy. Wee Play has a liberal make-up policy. Non-participating siblings are welcome.
What else: Wee Play is located in an office suite. Access in and out of the building is easy with just two steps. Registration for the next Wee Play session that runs from February 18th to May 3rd begins on Monday, February 4th.
Have you been to Wee Play? If you have comments and would like to share with the Our Kids readers, email Our Kids.
