The Parenthood Blog: Perk & Play

AUTHOR: Hope Daniels is a Rumson, NJ resident and founder of A New Mom In Town blog – you can read all about her parenting adventures at www.anewmomintown.com]

The morning sun is shining, the sky is blue and there is a crisp chill in the air.  It’s a beautiful fall morning and you think back to the last time you cuddled up next to it. It’s hard not to get emotional just thinking about the scent of it. “It” being a fresh cup of coffee. You’re about to take a sip and then – a play sword pokes you right in the rib. You hear a pirate’s voice. “Err…walk the plank mommy (or daddy)!” Your java daydream ends as quickly as the steam from an espresso evaporates.

We all know bonding with a child is a critical part of parenting, but let’s be honest, so is relaxing with your latte.  Managing to combine both is as difficult as getting your kids to brush their own teeth. Luckily, these coffee spots created for parents know exactly how important it is to keep kids stimulated, you sane and everyone happy. Here’s a list of play cafès equipped to fuel your child’s imagination and your coffee obsession.

Coco Beans Play Café

70 Apple Street, Tinton Falls, NJ  | 732.224.1100

Coffee, play and dress up.  Can you think of a better day than this? Grab your children, computer, tablet and fit bit and head to this cozy cafè/indoor playground where you can work and keep an eye on your kids at the same time. The 3,000-square-foot socks only facility touts itself as your “home away from home.”  The friendly staff makes sure to keep this nurturing environment as safe and clean as you would keep your own living room.  The space is filled with toys and play structures that spark your child’s curiosity and social skills.  Don’t be surprised if your child or even you leave for the day making a new BFF. Extra Perk:  Schedule a special play date with five friends and a Coco Beans member will watch and entertain your group as you work.  Best part: complimentary tea or coffee.

Little Dreamers Play Cafe

2153 Highway 35 Store #5, Sea Girt, NJ | 848.469.8733

Parents are still pinching themselves to make sure they are awake because this play cafè is a dream come true.  Parents can bring their kids, ages 0-5, for some mommy and me time, a little adventure and learning. The cafè is stocked with beverages; light snacks and provides parents with take-out menus for the pickiest of eaters.  Weekly mini-events like brunches and pizza parties are hosted to keep your schedule filled with activities and social experiences to help your little ones strengthen their confidence and independence. Extra Perk:  Adults can work and workout at this cafè.  Fitness classes are coming soon

Mama Bears Play Café

2145 Route 35, Holmdel, NJ  | 732.858.6161

Help your kids celebrate being kids at this brand new hip play spot. The venue is big enough to house a coffee bar stocked with all your favorite syrups and fancy cafè concoctions, a separate infant activity center and even a salon for your child’s American Girl Doll.  You’ll feel like you took a day trip to NYC. Extra Perk:  There is an extensive menu for coffee aficionados and Mama Bear’s barista provides the hottest brew trend to hit cafès, the pour over method.