The Benefits of Stay and Play Sessions for Parents and Children
Becoming a parent is one of the most rewarding experiences in life, but it’s also one of the most challenging. Those early months and years can be filled with joy, laughter, and discovery, yet also moments of loneliness, anxiety, and self-doubt. For many new parents, it can feel like you’ve stepped into a whole new world, one that doesn’t come with an instruction manual.
That’s where Stay and Play sessions can make a real difference.
These relaxed, welcoming groups are designed for parents and children to enjoy quality time together in a fun, social setting. But beyond the toys, Stay and Plays offer something far more meaningful, a sense of connection, community and confidence for both parent and child.
Finding Connection and Community
It’s no secret that parenthood can sometimes feel isolating. Between feeds, naps, and endless washing, it’s easy to lose touch with the outside world. Studies show that around one in ten mothers experience postnatal depression within the first year after birth and it’s important to remember that fathers and partners can feel the same way too.
Stay and Play sessions create a space where parents can simply be, no pressure, no expectations, just time to connect with others who understand. Conversations flow naturally as children play and before long, what starts as small talk often turns into friendship.
Many parents say that these sessions help them regain a sense of belonging, a reminder that they’re not alone in the ups and downs of early parenthood.
A Confidence Boost for Parents
For parents who may be feeling anxious, low in confidence, or uncertain about their new role, Stay and Plays can be a gentle first step. The welcoming, informal atmosphere helps build confidence in small, everyday ways, from chatting with another parent to watching your child try something new for the first time.
It’s also a chance to pick up ideas for play at home, share experiences and feel reassured that no one has it all figured out (despite what social media might suggest!).
And for Children?
Of course, Stay and Play sessions aren’t just beneficial for parents, they’re wonderful for children too. These sessions offer rich opportunities for little ones to explore new toys, textures, and activities, helping to build early social, emotional, and physical skills.
Through play, children learn to take turns, communicate, and express themselves. Sensory activities and messy play help develop fine motor skills, creativity, and curiosity. For many, it’s also their first experience of being around other children, a great way to prepare for future nursery or preschool life.
Stay and Plays come in all shapes and sizes, and no two sessions are the same. You might find:
- Messy Stay and Plays, where children can dive into paint, foam and textures, discovering the joy of creative play without trashing your carpet at home. 🎨
- Music-themed sessions, filled with songs, rhythm and movement to build early language and coordination. 🎵
- Themed adventures, like jungle or seasonal sessions, where little imaginations can run wild. 🦁
With so much variety, there’s something to suit every child’s interest and every parent’s comfort level.
A Peek Inside the Nursery
For families considering nursery care, Stay and Play sessions are also a wonderful way to see a setting in action. You can meet the team, explore the environment and get a real sense of how staff interact with children, all in an informal, relaxed way. It’s a great opportunity to ask questions (especially if you have ones on funding), observe the atmosphere and see if it feels like the right fit for your family.
Stay and Play with Happy Days
At Happy Days Nurseries & Pre-Schools, we’re proud to offer a wide range of Stay and Play sessions across our settings, from messy play and music mornings to themed ocean adventures. They’re open to all families and everyone is welcome.
In the whirlwind of early parenthood, sometimes the smallest steps can make the biggest difference. Attending a Stay and Play might only take an hour out of your week, but the benefits, connection, confidence, friendship and shared joy, can last far longer.
✨ You can find your nearest free Stay and Play and upcoming dates on our Events Page by clicking here, come along, connect and see where children (and parents!) can truly shine.