If you’re a bit burned out on the playground or just need a space to escape the heat and/or inclement weather, shake up your routine by bringing the kids to Sabrina’s Play Studio in Woodside, Queens. The new kid in town, Sabrina’s debuted this summer and is the baby, so to speak, of entrepreneur Sabrina Samuels, who has more than 10 years of experience as a New York daycare employee.
Open Play for All Ages
The 1,900 square-foot facility is clean and well-organized, and looks like one giant rec room — something apartment-dwelling kids really love. It’s also a great play space for kids up to about seven years old, so an older and younger sibling can have fun at the same time, while engaged in separate activities.
Parents and caregivers will rejoice to learn that there is no play time limit at Sabrina’s; as long as a a child is accompanied by and adult, they can play the day away. Prices start at $10/child and $5/babies 11 months and younger on weekdays.
Welcome to the Baby Zone
Currently, the studio is divided into areas for different age groups. The Baby Zone section, which is gated off from the “big kid” area is filled with books, a stationary car for kids to “drive”, a mini-trampoline, a bean bag chair, stuffed animals, a slide, a swing, mini-cars to ride, plush toys and more. Everything is age-appropriate for an infant or toddler, and Samuels plans to rotate the games and activity sections every few weeks to keep things fresh. Baby needs a diaper change? There’s a changing table inside the large bathroom and even a mini toilet seat for the recently potty-trained.
For the Older Kids
Thrill-seeking kids can take a ride on a plastic, durable “mini roller coaster” in the back of the space, where they’ll also find a large train table and a chalkboard wall to scribble the day away.
For the active set, a mini bounce house is on hand and a compact climbing gym with nets, tubes and a slide is good for burning off some energy. Other diversions include and an area full of costumes and whimsical hats for kids who love to play dress-up and a play kitchen stocked with plastic, life-like food, and pots and pans. Additionally, throughout the space kids will find baskets filled with toy cars, trains, blocks, dolls, puzzles, stuffed animals and more. Kids won’t know what to play with first, and won’t bore easily with so many options in one room.
The Vibe
Kid-friendly and classic 80s tunes play from speakers on the entrance desk to keep the playful groove going, but it’s not too loud or overpowering. It’s not a huge space, but the result is an intimate and inviting atmosphere — and you won’t have to go too far to find your kids if they meander away.
Locals residents are eagerly supporting their new neighbor, with regulars swinging by daily for playtime, and pediatric therapists have already utilized the facility for Early Intervention evaluations.
Good to Know Before You Go
Parents and caregivers will rejoice to learn that there is no play time limit at Sabrina’s; as long as a a child is accompanied by and adult, they can play the day away. (Note: This is not a drop-off center, for open play an adult must be with their child at all times.)
Strollers are not permitted in the play areas, and can be stored next to the cubbyholes at the entrance. Additionally, food is not permitted in the play section, but there’s a seating area with large tables, a microwave, and high-chairs where kids and caretakers can enjoy their own lunch without being forced to buy (not-so-healthy) foods. (Sabrina’s does sell drinks and a few organic snacks, though.) WiFi is available in the lounge area, and if you forget your socks—which are a must in the play sections—you can purchase a pair of adult or kids socks on-site, for just one dollar.
Coming Up: Classes, Parties and More
Keep checking Sabrina’s Facebook page for updates on new events and happenings at the space, as Samuels is planning mommy and me yoga sessions, story time, and special events in the near future. Birthday Party packages are also available—but book fast; Sabrina’s already has winter party dates on the calendar.
When it comes to fun, Sabrina’s got the basics covered, and sometimes all a kid needs is the basics, in a new environment. Sabrina’s Play Studio is a nice reminder that sure, your toys are OK — but for kids, it’s sometimes more fun to play with someone else’s!
Open play is Monday – Thursday 9:30 a.m. – 7:30 p.m.; Friday 9:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.; weekends 9:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. Daily entrance fee is $10 per child during the week; and $5 for babies under 11 months old. On weekends, the fee is $7 per child over age one. Entrance fee is valid for two adults; a third adult is $5. Cash and major credit cards accepted; not open on holidays.
Sabrina’s Play Studio
52-07 Queens Blvd. (at 52nd St.)
Woodside, Queens
929-522-0104
Online: facebook.com/pages/Sabrinas-Play-Studio
photos: Rachel Sokol
Have you stopped by Sabrina’s? What did you think? Tell us in the comments below!
—Rachel Sokol
Need some fresh ideas?
Related reads
