Play Plus for Kids, Melbourne

For busy mom Erin Phelan, owning a children’s play center blends personal and professional pursuits. Because she believes that storytelling and imaginary play develops essential skills, she has made both core foundations of her space. When the Play Plus for Kids owner comes to work, her youngster often tags along with her, zigzagging through the facilities during open-play time and exploring the indoor treehouse or bounce house alongside other inquisitive tots. Phelan's facility, which brims with opportunities for imaginative play, helps parents encourage their little ones to step away from the video-game controllers or tax audit forms in favor of hands-on recreation.