Kids Area
A space that prioritizes you and your child.
Our children’s space was created so parents and caregivers don’t have to choose between entertaining their child(ren) and their own well-being. Many children’s spaces focus solely on the child’s needs and parents are simply along for the ride.
Our space encourages you to take a moment for yourself while your child plays. Get in some stretching, jot down a few thoughts in a journal, pick up a paintbrush and do your own watercolour painting. This space is for you, too!
What you’ll find inside
The kid’s area is located upstairs and offers four different rooms designed for different ages, comfort levels and styles of play. It’s open for families to use during all business hours.
Little ones room
A bright, engaging room specifically for your littlest ones. Perfect for babies and toddlers who need a more contained environment.
• Tummy-time / play mat
• Changing table
• Soft, safe toys
• Space to crawl, roll, or sit
• Seating for adults and a chair to nurse
big kids room
A larger, activity-filled room for children who are beyond the baby stage and are ready for more exploration.
It features:
• A wide variety of toys and dress-up materials
• A small kitchenette play set
• Big foam blocks for imaginative building and stacking
• Books, games and puzzles
(We know babies will also want to explore in here, please simply supervise with the smaller toys/game pieces.)
living room
This is the central hub of the Children’s Area and connects directly to the 3 other rooms, as well as a bathroom. A cozy, open space, it’s great for crafts, conversations and stories.
It features:
• A small craft table for little artists and
• A shelf filled with arts and craft supplies
• A comfy couch for reading together
• A microwave & tea kettle & mini-fridge
The gathering room
This is the first room you enter and acts as a soft “landing zone” for families. Ideal for kids who take time warming up to new spaces.
It features:
• A large table for crafts, reading, and joint activities
• Books and comfortable seating
• Large window with view of downtown Nanaimo
You may bring any other self-care materials from the lower floor upstairs with you!
Kid’s Area Events & Programming
Beginning again in January, the Kids Area will be staffed twice a week. Our childcare facilitator, Luisa, provides supervision for Mom’s Morning Reset on Monday mornings and facilitates Wednesday Playgroup. Head over to our events page here to register!
- Mom’s Morning Reset: Monday mornings from 9:00-12:00. A chance for moms to start their week off with self-care and connection, while their children are supervised by Luisa. Free for members, Drop-in for $15.
- Wednesday Playgroup: Wednesday mornings from 9:00-12:00. Join other parents for a fun playtime with Luisa facilitating. Free for members, drop-in for $10.
- After-School Family Art Therapy Studio: Wednesdays from 3:00-5:00pm for parents and kids ages 5-10 years old. This is a free, drop-in family time that uses art therapy prompts to help families connect and get creative together. Facilitated by art therapy intern, Alessandra Botten-Mizzaro. Free for everyone.
Frequently Asked Questions
How can I access the children’s space?
The children’s area is included with an adult purchase of a membership, daily drop-in pass, or 10 visit flex pass. If you want more information and pricing details, please see how to join us here.
Is there a fee for my child?
Children 12 & under are free with a guardian, parent or caregiver who has purchased access to the space.
May I leave my child at My Inner Harbour while I step out to run errands?
No. Since we’re not a licensed daycare, a parent or guardian is required to remain onsite during the session. For playgroup, we do have the option of parents signing up for 30 minutes self-care slots while Luisa directly supervises your child, to give you the opportunity to use the self-care spaces during playgroup.
What age of children is the Kids Space appropriate for?
Children 0-12 are welcome!
Do I need to be in the same area as my child?
If the kid’s space is not staffed, yes, caregivers should generally stay upstairs and within the children’s area. We know parents will have a very accurate idea of what their child feels comfortable with and is capable of. Our general recommendations are: please stay with your child at all times if they are 5 and younger. You can bring them downstairs with you to get materials as needed! If your child is early elementary age and continues to need fairly consistent supervision or prefers to have you close, brief trips downstairs to are fine, provided your child is comfortable being left for a short time or knows how to find you when needed. If your child is older elementary age or does not require constant supervision, parents can feel free to spend time downstairs, provided their child knows how to find them when needed. We trust parents to use the space in a way that is safe and supportive for the whole family, as well as any other members using the space. We reserve the right to ask you to return to the Kids Area if we’re noticing that adult supervision would be helpful.
May I work on my laptop during the playgroup?
No. We ask that parents refrain from working in the children’s area. We encourage staying present and keeping the space as screen-free as possible. Light phone use (like sending a quick text of importance) is often unavoidable, but we encourage parents to try to leave phones tucked away. We unfortunately are not able to provide childcare for parents to work at My Inner Harbour.
How much is playgroup and how do I pay?
There is a flat drop in fee of $10 for playgroup. However, if you are a member, a 10-visit pass holder, or using a regular drop-in pass, the playgroup is included with your visit. You may pay online, with cash, or e-transfer at [email protected].
Do I have to register in advance for playgroup?
Registering in advance saves you a spot for playgroup that day, but you do not need to register in advance. You are welcome to come the day of and join in if there is space. If we are at maximum capacity you may be asked to come back another day.
Can I bring snacks for my child?
Yes! you’re welcome to bring snacks. Please be mindful of mess and allergies.
Ready to try it out?
You can experience the space in a variety of ways. Just want a tour? Drop by anytime, its free!
Become a member
Choose the plan that works for you – we have a variety of options to fit your schedule, preferences and budget.
Attend an event
We have a variety of therapeutic and self-care related events, hosted by practitioners, artists, coaches, & more!