When a person thinks of a ball pit they generally think of a fun time for kids to jump around and play with their friends. However, few people know the educational and developmental benefits of ball pits for children. “Ball pits provide children with many opportunities to enrich their learning. Because of our growing attachment to technology and our devices, it’s becoming more difficult to get kids to play outside and use equipment such as ball pits and we are forgetting how important these activities are,” says Kylie-Jane Shannon, the owner of Jungle Kids Indoor Play Centre.

Young children enjoy playing in ball pits, they will normally dive in and have fun. Babies and young kids are immediately attracted to anything that rolls and it holds their attention, which helps with their development. Playing in ball bits helps children to strengthen their muscles and throwing and rolling the balls helps them to develop their fine motor skills. It is also a good opportunity for sensory play for young children. As they move through the balls it provides them with a sense of calm. Walking through and over the balls will also help children to start to build their balance skills. Playing in ball pits with other children helps them to develop their social skills too. Each child will find something exciting about a ball pit, whether it is the bright colours of the balls or to discover what it’s like to throw and catch the balls. This will also help children stimulate creativity and imagination as they create their own games.

There are many reasons for children to play with balls. The simple act of rolling, kicking, catching or throwing a ball helps children improve their motor skills, hand-eye coordination and timing, which are all an important part of the developmental process for children. Playing in a ball pit will also help children develop their language skills and teach them how to negotiate with others. Ball pits also help children to be expressive as well as release their energy and tension. The skills learnt in the ball pit will help children progress to cooperative and competitive play as they get older.

While some types of play may seem irrelevant or not necessary, many children’s games and activities have a substantial effect on their development, and their development as a child has a substantial effect on how there life could be as an adult,” says Kylie. Besides a ball pit, there are many ways parents can include ball play into their children’s play routine. They can simply buy them a little ball and play a one-on-one game or they could find specifically designed ball games to enhance their child’s development,” adds Kylie.

Jungle Kids Indoor Play Centre has an amazing ball pit facility for children as well as other facilities that support children’s development. It’s the perfect facility for parents to take their little ones out for a day of fun but also for a day of building developmental skills!

Jungle Kids Indoor Play Centre continues to dedicate its expertise and delight to serving families within the town of Wallan, Victoria.

Check out their full range of services and current featured promotions at junglekids.com.au.Visit their Facebook page to view all their activities and special offerings. Jungle Kids Indoor Play Centre is open seven (7) days a week and is open until 5:00pm on weekdays during the school holidays.

As part of their Play-all-day Single Admission, adults and babies attend free of charge. 12 months to 3 years old attend at $8.50 and 4 years old to 12 years old attend at $10.00.

Written and syndicated by: YDMA News

Children do not like others to control their activities and want to have freedom in everything that they do. It is not an easy task because anything can turn into a struggle. This is usually a normal behaviour in children. However, there are times when certain children are particularly stubborn and this can become difficult for parents to deal with, especially in a public space such as a play centre. “Stubbornness can surface at any age and can continue into adulthood. It is important as a parent to learn how to deal with stubborn behaviour to limit the stress it puts on both child and parent,” says Kylie-Jane Shannon, the owner of Jungle Kids Indoor Play Centre.

There are some ways a parent can deal with stubbornness. Parents are advised that they should not try to argue with a stubborn child who is always ready to argue back. Do not give them that opportunity. Instead, it is advised to listen to the child and hear what they have to say. Try to turn it into a conversation instead of an argument. If the parent shows that they are willing to listen, it will make the child more willing to listen as well. Never force a child to do anything they do not want to do. This will just make them more rebellious and they will be set on doing exactly what they’ve been told not to do.

“It is important to build a connection with the child. If, for example, the parent wants the child to stop behaving incorrectly on the swings, the parent could swing for a while with the child to show the correct behaviour and camaraderie and then, after a while, ask the child to show similar behaviour,” says Kylie. “Another thing parents can do is to offer their child options. This will allow the child to feel as if they have choices and will make them feel more in control,” adds Kylie.

“Parents should also put themselves in their children’s shoes and try to understand the situation from their side. If something was promised to the child and the promise is not being followed through for a specific reason, then the parents need to explain to their children exactly why this promise could not be kept,” suggests Kylie. Stubborn children find it difficult to accept an outright refusal, so parents should work on their negotiating skills and try and compromise. Parents should lead by example and always try to display a positive attitude. It is also important to develop some rules about behaviour and the consequences that can occur if those rules are not followed. It is important to be consistent with these rules but not rigid as this can also have a negative effect.

“It can be tough dealing with a stubborn child but at the same time it’s important to realise that every child is different. The above tips can be helpful in dealing with stubborn children, but, the most important thing a parent can do is to find ways that work for them as well as for their children,” says Kylie.

Jungle Kids Indoor Play Centre continues to dedicate its expertise and delight to serving families within the town of Wallan, Victoria.

Check out their full range of services and current featured promotions at junglekids.com.au.Visit their Facebook page to view all their activities and special offerings. Jungle Kids Indoor Play Centre is open seven (7) days a week and is open until 5:00pm on weekdays during the school holidays.

As part of their Play-all-day Single Admission, adults and babies attend free of charge. 12 months to 3 years old attend at $8.50 and 4 years old to 12 years old attend at $10.00.

Written and syndicated by: YDMA News

Having friends is essential for children’s development as well as their overall health and well-being. It’s important for children’s social and emotional development to be around others who have different personalities and different ideas. “Having friends helps children develop many life skills that are necessary in day-to-day activities. Without these skills children could struggle to build normal social skills or relationships,” says Kylie-Jane Shannon, the owner of Jungle Kids Indoor Play Centre.

Young children (pre-school age) need to learn friendship skills. As they play with other children, they build skills that will help them in the present and into the future. These skills include; sharing, taking turns, cooperating, listening to others, managing disagreements as well as seeing other people’s points of view.

Other social skills that can be learnt when interacting with friends, are talking and listening respectfully as well as learning to win and lose graciously. It’s important for children to learn how to interact with others and to develop the correct skills to participate in group activities. Having good friends can also encourage good behaviour in children as they begin to be influenced by their friends.

When kids get older and they enter school, relationships with other people become even more important. Friendships at this age can influence children’s self-esteem. When they have a good friend or a good group of friends they feel that they belong. Their friends care for them and that makes them feel good about themselves.

This creates a general positive outlook on life. “Studies have found that children who build positive social and friendship skills are less likely to have social and emotional difficulties later in life,” says Kylie. Developing good friendships as young children also helps to increase their capacity for empathy as well as altruism.

Sometimes it can be tough for kids to make friends. Parents should encourage children to get involved socially and to make new friends. If children see that their parents encourage that behaviour, it can make them feel more comfortable to put themselves out there and make friends. There are ways for parents to help their children make friends. For example, taking children to an indoor play centre such as Jungle Kids Indoor Play Centre, or a play area, like a park, are great spaces to expose children to others and to make friends and build good friendship skills. Opportunities such as this give children a large variety of friends to choose from. It’s helpful to teach children certain social cues such as how to respond to other children’s greetings. It’s also good to encourage a child to introduce themselves when they meet new children. Help them to learn the rules of games that they would like to play with others. This can help them to get involved in group activities in a seamless manner.

Jungle Kids Indoor Play Centre continues to dedicate its expertise and delight to serving families within the town of Wallan, Victoria.

Check out their full range of services and current featured promotions at junglekids.com.au.Visit their Facebook page to view all their activities and special offerings. Jungle Kids Indoor Play Centre is open seven (7) days a week and is open until 5:00pm on weekdays during the school holidays.

As part of their Play-all-day Single Admission, adults and babies attend free of charge. 12 months to 3 years old attend at $8.50 and 4 years old to 12 years old attend at $10.00.

Written and syndicated by: YDMA News

In general, it can be difficult to get young children to concentrate for any length of time. Put them in a setting such as a play centre and it can be even more difficult because they become over excited and overly stimulated as there is so much happening around them. Kylie-Jane Shannon, the owner of Jungle Kids Indoor Play Centre, gives some tips on how to improve children’s concentration in a play centre setting.

Some kids are just naturally excited, which is not a bad thing as it means they are curious, energetic and optimistic. Sometimes when kids are over excited they struggle to focus and concentrate. Play centres are often buzzing with excited and enthusiastic children running around and playing and many children can become over stimulated. “There are ways that parents can help to improve their children’s concentration in a play centre setting, and this involves picking up on certain behaviours as their children are playing,” says Kylie.

If the child is not concentrating or is over excited at the play centre, avoid reacting in a way that is going to escalate the situation. Always react calmly, and simply take the child aside and have a quiet conversation with them. Trying to shout over the top of children or yelling at them does not help.  If they are not listening or responding to instructions, attempt to do some breathing exercises with them. In a gentle voice, tell them to stop, take three deep breaths and then proceed calmly back to play.

“It could also be beneficial to discuss things with your child ahead of time about behaviour in a play centre or the steps to take to avoid getting over excited,” suggests Kylie. “This is particularly important for children who have been diagnosed with or suffer from ADHD,” adds Kylie. Tactics that can be used include, creating a fun song or rhyme that can be recited when its time to take a break or making eye contact with them to increase their focus, maintain concentration and listen to what is being said.

It’s important to pay attention to what steps help the child to calm down and make sure to exercise them when the time comes. Ensure that the child takes a break from play every now and then. This will prevent them from being overly stimulated and can help them to re-focus. If all else fails, it is perhaps time to leave the immediate environment. This will perhaps upset the child initially, but eventually they will calm down as often it is nearly impossible for them to take a breather amongst the ever present stimulation.

Play centres are great places for kids to exercise, develop their physical and mental strength, learn social and emotional skills and enjoy the company of other children. However, remember that every child is different and something that works for one child might not necessarily work for another child. Always keep this in mind, be patient and have fun!

Jungle Kids Indoor Play Centre continues to dedicate its expertise and delight to serving families within the town of Wallan, Victoria.

Check out their full range of services and current featured promotions at junglekids.com.au.Visit their Facebook page to view all their activities and special offerings. Jungle Kids Indoor Play Centre is open seven (7) days a week and is open until 5:00pm on weekdays during the school holidays.

As part of their Play-all-day Single Admission, adults and babies attend free of charge. 12 months to 3 years old attend at $8.50 and 4 years old to 12 years old attend at $10.00.

Written and syndicated by: YDMA News

Eating healthily for a child is always important no matter the situation; after play is no exception. When children play they constantly use their muscles and burn a lot of energy. A well-balanced healthy meal is always needed afterwards to restore their energy and feed their growing muscles. “The availability of unhealthy foods like some fast foods or processed foods has made it tough for parents to ensure that their children are eating a healthy diet. If we factor in our hectic schedules, it becomes even harder.” says Kylie-Jane Shannon, owner of Jungle Kids Indoor Play Centre.

There are many different and creative ways for parents to ensure that their children are getting the correct nutrition. Adhering to a healthy diet supports children’s development. It helps them to maintain a healthy weight, stabilise their moods, sharpen their minds and could help them to avoid a variety of health issues. “There are specific types of foods that children should eat after being active so their energy and fluids are restored,” says Kylie.

After being active, children should eat some carbohydrates as they contain glycogen. Muscles need glycogen which can become depleted when children are active and therefore it needs to be replaced. Carbohydrates are also absorbed a lot quicker than fats and proteins, making them easier to digest. Some good food ideas that contain carbohydrates include; fruit salads, toasted sandwiches or a fruit smoothie. These foods are a quick and healthy snack after play. Studies have shown that milk is better for muscle recovery than sports drinks and children can pick their favourite flavour. Fruit is a good snack, especially pineapples, any type of berry, and bananas. “This is why it is important at indoor play centres to have proper food choices on the menu for active children.” says Kylie.

After a period of being active, children also need to have some protein. This is because protein contains amino acids, which help build muscles. Muscle proteins are broken down when children are active and need to be restored. Some good food ideas for protein include; eggs, yoghurt, chicken, and cheese. Eggs are one of the healthiest sources of protein and can be prepared in many different ways. Yogurt, especially plain Greek yogurt, is high in protein and when eaten with berries or granola, makes a perfect snack. Chicken is high in lean protein and when paired with carbohydrates, makes a great after play meal. Cheese is a good source of protein and also contains healthy fats. Finally, do not forget to keep children hydrated with water, fruit smoothies or milk after active play. Try some of these snack ideas next time your children need a boost after a hectic day of playing.

Jungle Kids Indoor Play Centre continues to dedicate its expertise and delight to serving families within the town of Wallan, Victoria.

Check out their full range of services and current featured promotions at junglekids.com.au.Visit their Facebook page to view all their activities and special offerings. Jungle Kids Indoor Play Centre is open seven (7) days a week and is open until 5:00pm on weekdays during the school holidays.

As part of their Play-all-day Single Admission, adults and babies attend free of charge. 12 months to 3 years old attend at $8.50 and 4 years old to 12 years old attend at $10.00.

Written and syndicated by: YDMA News

For many years, themed play centres have taken the concept and benefits of play, and expanded on them. Both traditional and themed play centres provide for and build healthy physical and cognitive strength. However, themed play centres assist in building children’s imagination, igniting creativity, and inspiring ingenious problem-solving skills.

Kylie-Jane Shannon, Jungle Kids Indoor Play Centre owner, discusses the benefits of themed play centres, and how they can inspire children’s creative development.

“Children are constantly using their imagination, however, often they require the added push to turn their dreams into motion,” says Kylie. “This is where themed indoor play centres come into their own. Colourful and characterised settings and decor create an immersive experience, transporting children to another world,” Kylie adds.

There are many benefits of visiting a themed indoor play centre. Both parents and children can see the opportunities for fun and excitement, improving children’s’ health via interactive play experiences, inviting children into colourful themed spaces and providing businesses with a competitive edge. “The addition of a themed area or event within an indoor play centre creates undeniable excitement, and attendance,” says Kylie.

“As an example, Jungle Kids Indoor Play Centre has a Safari themed party option among others. A themed safari event can arouse excitement for children and encourage their imaginative play,” Kylie adds. Theming the space with wildlife elements through colourful, life-sized and sound-enhancing pieces can become an intuitive method to teach children about wildlife. “For parents in particular, they can engage and interact in themed events, contributing to the fun levels, while instilling the faith and trust of an indoor play centre as an ideal and suitable environment for both entertainment and education,” says Kylie.

Imaginative play is important for children’s physical and mental health. Children learn to understand how their bodies operate, build friendships, and explore through creative imagining. Indoor play centres provide a holistic experience through physical challenges like climbing, swinging and jumping. “They also enable children to socialise with peers through teamwork and allow shared moments in game creation and imagination building through story telling,” says Kylie.

“The concept of colourful themed spaces has always posed a great level of artistry in attracting children to spaces with themed set pieces,” says Kylie. “Children develop an understanding of certain colours, what they evoke, and how they contribute to the overall composition of a particular theme,” adds Kylie.

Themed indoor play centres provide key business growth through an advantageous competitive edge. “While generic play centres serve to enable children to have fun, themed play centres enable children to learn through play, accommodating every child’s taste and preference,” says Kylie. This helps to promote the business brand and centre it as the premium choice of play centre to visit.

Jungle Kids Indoor Play Centre continues to dedicate its expertise and delight to serving families within the town of Wallan, Victoria.

Check out their full range of services and current featured promotions at junglekids.com.au.Visit their Facebook page to view all their activities and special offerings. Jungle Kids Indoor Play Centre is open seven (7) days a week and is open until 5:00pm on weekdays during the school holidays.

As part of their Play-all-day Single Admission, adults and babies attend free of charge. 12 months to 3 years old attend at $8.50 and 4 years old to 12 years old attend at $10.00.

Written and syndicated by: YDMA News

Indoor play centres are one of the most popular leisure destinations for families with young children. However, play centres can become a hazard to public health and safety if not properly maintained. Owner of Jungle Kids Indoor Play Centre, and proud mother, Kylie-Jane Shannon, shares the essential components of promoting safe and hygienic standards at play centres.

The first essential component for play centres, is to ensure that all resources, play equipment including indoor and outdoor toys, swings, bikes, etc, as well as the physical areas are thoroughly disinfected and sanitised regularly. Ensuring that everything is well-organised everyday is another essential component for promoting safe and hygienic standards.

“As a well revered play centre, Jungle Kids ensures that sanitising meticulously and arranging the play centre before the very first customers step in, and after the last customer steps out, is of utmost importance and is regularly exercised by staff,” says Kylie.

With numerous children using the play centre’s equipment and resources daily, disinfecting surfaces regularly, allows for greater control of the hygiene standards that assures parents that their young ones can enjoy themselves in a safe and sanitary environment.

Another essential component of a safe and hygienic environment is to enlist the participation of both the children using the centre and their parents. Through good communication, play centres can implement hygienically beneficial protocols that set the hygiene standards for the centre. Examples include, ensuring that everyone thoroughly washes and sanitises their hands before they enter the play centre, and if directed to do so, adults wear a mask. “If everyone is aware of, and maintains safe and hygienic standards, we can help keep both kids and parents safe and healthy, and communicate our standards in a fun and informative manner,” says Kylie.

Another essential component is to ensure that parents adhere to the rules and regulations of the play centre. “For example, at Jungle Kids, the play centre strictly advises that all children must wear socks when they’re in the play centre, and that parents supervise their children’s activities,” says Kylie. Following the rules and regulations assist play centres highly maintain a safe and orderly environment.

The final component is to ensure that all play centre equipment is well maintained and safe for daily use. “At Jungle Kids, all play centre equipment is safe, regularly serviced and versatile to cater for all age groups,” says Kylie. All surface areas in the play centre should be preserved well, and show no signs of wear and tear.

The essential components discussed above should serve as the most informative and frequently practiced etiquette to best deliver and uphold the ideal play centre experience for children and parents.

Jungle Kids Indoor Play Centre continues to dedicate their expertise and delight to serving Australian families within the town of Wallan, Victoria. Checkout their full range of services and current featured promotions. Visit their Facebook page to view all their activities and special offerings.

Jungle Kids Indoor Play Centre is open seven (7) days a week and is open until 5:00pm on weekdays during the school holidays.

As part of their Play-all-day Single Admission, adults and babies attend free of charge. 12 months to 3 years old attend at $8.50 and 4 years old to 12 years old attend at $10.00.

Jungle Kids Indoor Play Centre is situated at 2B Commercial Drive Wallan, Victoria and can be contacted on: (03) 5783 4104.

Written and syndicated by YDMA News