Our play space is recommended for children ages 18 months to 8 years old. Children reach milestones at their own pace, and we welcome little ones at every stage of play. Our supervised play space is designed with crawlers and walkers in mind, though it’s best suited for children who are actively walking and not teething. Our staff will keep a close, caring eye on younger kiddos, but please note: the space is shared by children of all ages, which means there are small parts, unprotected corners, and hard floors in some areas. Your 9-month-old may find themselves playing alongside busy toddlers, so we ask that parents of crawlers and new walkers keep this in mind when joining our community.

Young infants are welcome deskside via our activity mats, bouncers, or activity centers, but are not allowed access to our play area due to their safety.

Right now, our supervised play space is best suited for children who are mobile and actively engaged in play (typically ages 18 months–8). However, you're always welcome to bring your infant and keep them with you in the co-working area! We have a bassinet, activity table, and a bouncer available on a first come, first served basis. Infants are not a part of the play space, but our Joyful Commons team members are available to support as needed.

You can absolutely bring another child, too! You can add on additional children to your membership or day pass. Just let us know when you reserve your time slot so we can make sure the play space is staffed accordingly.

Our play space is staffed by trained, licensed, caring team members who keep your kiddos engaged and safe - so you can actually focus.

We are not a daycare. Parents and caregivers must remain on-site while their child is in the supervised play space.

We’re here to support your workday, not replace you, so you can focus knowing your little one is close and cared for.

Joyful Commons is not a daycare, preschool, or in-home babysitting replacement.

Our supervised play space is designed to support short, meaningful periods of play while parents work nearby — not full-day childcare. This allows us to keep the experience positive, engaging, and developmentally appropriate for children. Our team is there to ensure your child is happy, safe, and cared for in the moment.

Think of us as your support crew, not a substitute for daycare. You'll remain on-site and available if your little one needs personal care, a quick snack refill, or a hug from mom.

Supervised play at Joyful Commons includes:

• Safe, age-appropriate free play

• Gentle guidance from caring staff

• Social interaction with other children

• A calm, welcoming environment while you work nearby

It does not include:

• A formal curriculum

• Scheduled lessons or instruction

• Long-duration childcare

• Diaper changes

• Bathroom assistance

• Meal prep or feeding

• One-on-one or full-day care

And that’s intentional 💚

Yes. All Joyful Commons team members who supervise children are fully certified and have up-to-date clearances, including PA child abuse, FBI fingerprinting, and criminal background checks. Safety is non-negotiable here.

We maintain a low staff-to-child ratio to ensure safety and attention for every little one. Our standard is 1 staff member for every 6 children, though we may adjust based on age range and activity. Your child’s well-being is our top priority, always.

The max capacity for kids in the play space is 6, so we highly encourage reservations to help ensure our staff-to-child ratio stays at our standard.

We ask that you bring any essentials your child may need during their time in the play space—diapers, wipes, snacks, water, comfort items, quiet toys, etc. Please label all belongings!

You’ll be notified immediately if your child needs a diaper change, bathroom help, or emotional support. You’re never more than a few steps away.

If you have a phone booth session scheduled, we recommend you take your child to the restroom, check diapers, and bottle feed prior to your session starting.

Absolutely. We have a cozy, private spot available for nursing or pumping, and we’re always here to support your feeding journey without judgment.

In addition to open play, we’ll offer a monthly calendar of fun and enriching activities like crafts, sensory play, and story time.

We believe children thrive when their day includes a mix of activities, environments, and caregivers.

Because Joyful Commons:

• Does not operate as a licensed daycare

• Does not follow a structured curriculum

• Is designed for supported co-working, not full-day care

We intentionally limit visits to up to 4 hours to ensure play remains joyful, not overwhelming.

This structure:

• Protects children from overstimulation

• Supports our caregivers’ ability to stay present and attentive

• Maintains a positive experience for all families in the space

If your family needs full-day care or structured programming, we encourage pairing Joyful Commons with:

• A licensed daycare or preschool

• An in-home caregiver or babysitter

• A nanny or part-time childcare arrangement

Joyful Commons is meant to complement your childcare plan — not replace it.