A new venue focused on enhancing children’s imaginative play has officially opened in Aintree. The Mini Villagers Role Play Village, located on Hanson Road, features a unique setup designed to stimulate creativity while providing a relaxing environment for parents.
Mum and co-owner, Jessica Maristani, was inspired to establish Mini Villagers five years ago after visiting a similar venue in Ipswich with her then three-year-old daughter. This experience ignited her passion for creating a space where children could explore their imaginations. “There’s just really a lack of places where parents can come and feel really de-stressed and just relax,” she shared.
Parents can enjoy a coffee while observing their children engage in role play, fostering both social interaction and developmental skills. The venue includes 11 child-sized workshops, such as a police station, hospital, market, beauty salon, and fire station. Each area encourages children to explore different roles and scenarios, promoting imaginative play in an engaging setting.
Thoughtfully Designed for Family Comfort
Mini Villagers also features an onsite café, with offerings from Crosby Coffee. Visitors can indulge in a variety of food options, including paninis, granola bowls, and acai bowls. Jessica emphasized that her goal was to create a welcoming atmosphere where both children and parents can feel at ease.
“As I became a parent, I also became more aware of how overwhelming many children’s spaces can feel for adults,” she explained. The design choices at Mini Villagers reflect this understanding, with pastel tones selected to reduce sensory overload. These colors create a calming environment, allowing children to focus on imaginative play without feeling overstimulated.
Jessica elaborated on the venue’s whimsical party room, which follows the same calming philosophy. It is designed to feel special yet not overwhelming, allowing families to celebrate without added stress. The space can be personalized for each child’s unique personality, ensuring a magical yet serene atmosphere.
A Community Hub for Families
“Mini Villagers is a community space,” Jessica stated. “Built on the belief that when children are supported through meaningful play and parents are given space to connect, families thrive.” This philosophy resonates throughout the venue, where thoughtful design meets the needs of both children and adults.
The opening of Mini Villagers Role Play Village represents a significant addition to the local community, providing a safe and supportive environment for families. With its focus on imaginative play and relaxation for parents, the venue aims to become a go-to destination for families in Aintree and beyond.
For more information on the new role-play village, visit the Mini Villagers Role Play Village website.
