The Happiest Place on Earth. I mean, in Calgary...

As a Stay At Home Mom, I have often struggled to find new and exciting ways to keep my kids occupied "engaged in learning".  Can you relate? 

One Saturday afternoon my husband and I wanted to do something as a family.  The weather wasn't all that cooperative to go outside or to the Zoo and neither of us are fond of mall walking.  Ave & Bryce are at an age where the Science Centre is a little too advance and they are just "short" of being old enough to enjoy all the benefits of the local museums children's programs.  We were a little stumped.

Then, I remember a fellow mom of twins talking about a place here in Calgary that caters to children between the ages of 8 months and 6 years old.  It's called COFFEE & SCREAM, an indoor playground WITH coffee n' treats.  And so, off we went!  We were not disappointed in the least.  The owner, Sonja, was so inviting and cheerful.  She explained to us the "ins n' outs" about the playground rules and told has to have a great time.  And indeed we did!

Entrance costs $7.00 per child and they have a GREAT DEAL that gives you 8 passes for $35.00.  We just missed the opportunity to purchase a yearly pass which they only sell for a limited time around their Anniversary date in February *sigh*.  They offer a very healthy menu of  reasonably priced food and the best part is you don't have to leave the play area to order and eat (there are tables and chairs to the side of the room).  The coffee was as good, if not better, than Timmies and the food was delicious.  More importantly, it was clean.

What was amazing to us is how Ave & Bryce enjoyed the independence of self directed play on the variety of Little Tykes climbing structures, cars, ATV's, houses, kitchens and toys...all while mommy and daddy enjoyed some adult conversation and coffee.  (This is a huge leap in development for our children because they have typically not left our side when out and about or in new environments.  The confidence they felt here was truly amazing to see. *a proud parenting moment*)

Of course, you can't just sit there and ignore your children as it is the parents responsibility to ensure their safety but it's not like other companies where they are expected to be at arms length either.  The only concern I have had is that there have been a few parents who do not "watch" their older children and at times they seem to have overrun the play area.  I however, have no problems letting these children know that they need to keep an eye open for the smaller kids.  Hey!  If their parents wont be responsible and "mind" their children, someone has too!  LOL!

Here are a few pics I snapped of Ave & Bryce having a blast...

I was so pleased with this establishment that I have since brought the kids back once by myself and another time with two other mommies and their children.  That's a total of 3 visits in less than 3 weeks...LOL!  (I am also trying to organize a Twins, Triples & More playdate there so, if you are visiting from that group please email me at justanothermomoftwins@gmail.com to let me know if you are interested!)

If you haven't already "checked" this place out, I highly recommend you do.  (You can visit them on FACEBOOK too!)

 Be sure to say "Hi" to Sonja for me when you are there!

Please Note:  I was not compensated or solicited to write this review on behalf of Coffee & Scream.  The opinions expressed in this post are that of the writer, me!