New play café The Play Den opens in Ipswich in Silent Street

The Play Den, in Silent Street, is open for children aged up to seven to enjoy an array of fun equipment with their parents.

The business has been set up by Stephanie Proctor-De'Ath, a qualified primary school teacher with 15 years experience.

In the new play café, there are a variety of play spaces including Montessori, open-ended toys, role play, creative/messy play, a reading area, affirmations, emotional regulation, sensory play and opportunities which promote learning and development. 

The Play Den (Image: The Play Den)

 Mrs Proctor-De'Ath said: "Since having my son three years ago, I have become growingly interested and passionate about early childhood development.

"The first five years in a child's life are absolutely crucial and ensuring quality experiences and a focus on play during this time is paramount to a child's wellbeing and development and successes in later life.

"With this in mind, I wanted to create a safe space for children to explore and engage in child-led play with their adults, as well as an environment that allows parents to be present and connect with their child, and others."

Also at the Play Den, there will be hot drinks, cold drinks and cakes for sale for parents and children to enjoy during their session.

The Play Den in Ipswich (Image: The Play Den)

It also runs regular sessions for children with special educational needs and disabilities and is accessible for people with physical disabilities also.

Each week, a different theme is reflected in the Den's Book of the Week and the sensory/play tray activities spark children's curiosity and interests and promote the children's understanding of the world around them.

The Play Den is open Monday to Friday, along with some Saturdays and sessions can be booked online here.