A new roleplay zone has opened at JunglaRoo, an indoor play centre in Barnstaple, North Devon, aimed at enhancing parent-child interactions and sparking children’s creativity. This initiative reflects the centre’s commitment to maintaining a vibrant and family-friendly environment. The soft-play facility, under its current ownership for nearly seven years, continues to expand its offerings, with the latest addition responding to strong demand from families.
Graham Ruhleman, director of JunglaRoo, noted that the decision to reinstate the roleplay area came after parents frequently requested its return. The previous version of the space was removed to accommodate other attractions. “All the time parents were asking when the roleplay area was going to come back,” Ruhleman stated. “So at the end of last year, we started planning to rebuild a new roleplay area – but bigger and better than the last one.”
Interactive Experiences for Children
The newly launched roleplay zone features various immersive settings where children can engage in imaginative play. Options include performing on stage, acting as a shopkeeper, working at a building site, or pretending to be a doctor, all while allowing parents to participate. Ruhleman emphasized the interactive nature of the experience, describing it as a complement to the soft-play area. “Parents can spend one-to-one time with their children in the roleplay area, then relax with a coffee while the kids burn off energy elsewhere,” he explained.
In an age where screen time is a prevalent concern for families, Ruhleman advocates for the importance of physical, interactive play. “There are so many things children can interact with – some good, some not so good. Having something quite wholesome like this, where they can really get involved with their parents, siblings or friends, is fantastic,” he added.
Future Developments and Seasonal Events
While there are no immediate plans for further expansions, Ruhleman expressed openness to feedback from visitors, which may guide the evolution of the roleplay zone. JunglaRoo typically experiences a surge in visitors during winter, particularly with indoor birthday parties and festive events. This December, the centre will host its annual Christmas party, providing families an opportunity to meet Santa Claus.
Ruhleman encourages families from across the region to explore the changes at JunglaRoo. “If you haven’t been for a while – or ever – pop in, have a look, have a play,” he urged. The facility offers sensory rooms, a café, an area for under-fours, and now the new roleplay space. During weekdays in term time, there is no limit on the length of stay, making it ideal for playdates or simply allowing children to enjoy themselves.
JunglaRoo operates seven days a week, with varying hours on weekdays and weekends. To take advantage of discounted entry, booking in advance is recommended. More details can be found at junglaroo.com.
