FAQ’s

Why Mini Explorers?

 

At Brilliant Play we believe that high-quality play is extremely important for children. We pride ourselves on blending our extensive knowledge of play theory, child development and rich play environments to provide experiences that are tailored to the children accessing them. Play is essential for children in order for them to grow and develop, it enhances physical and emotional well-being, promotes creativity and critical thinking skills as well as providing plenty of practice for establishing social skills and resilience.  Just as we don’t unpeel the petals of a rosebud to see the flower in bloom we can’t ‘teach’ or rush children’s development.  Play allows children to ‘unfold’ their skills at their own unique pace.

 

We have full insurance cover and can supply our Safeguarding, Lost Child, Play and Equality & Diversity Policies on request. Please ask to see our Risk Benefit assessment for more information about how decisions are made about play during sessions.

 

Who?

The team at Brilliant Play are Playworkers and have extensive experience in children’s play in a wide variety of settings. They are all DBS checked and undertake regular continuous professional development. There are a minimum of 2 staff members on each session.

 

Where?

Each adventure will begin at Marble Hill Park car park  and will drop back at Marble Hill Car Park at the end of the session(unless alternative arrangements have been confirmed with you.) The address is Marble Hill Park, Richmond Rd, TW1 2NL – head for the car park, entrance off Richmond Rd and beware that this postcode may not take you to the car park via Sat Nav

 

When?

Please see the website for current session times plus extra dates in half terms and holidays.

 

What will my child need to wear?

All the best explorers are prepared for whatever their adventures throw at them! Layers are best as they can be taken off and put on as necessary and sturdy shoes for discovering new terrain. A sun hat and pre-applied sunscreen if it’s hot – waterproofs if it’s not.

 

Will there be a snack?

Yes, exploring is hard work – water and a small snack will be provided although you are free to provide your own. Please advise us of any allergies.

 

 

What about lunch on the afternoon sessions?

We will start the session with a picnic lunch so please provide your child with a packed lunch to bring along.

 

What if it rains?

Adventures will go ahead regardless of the weather conditions. We love the rain and think it’s is a fantastic multisensory natural experience that offers a wealth of puddle jumping, mud and new smells and sights. With the right clothing, explorers can go anywhere! In very heavy rain we might seek shelter either in a den we have made ourselves or in the ‘pagoda’ shelter near the rugby pitches.

If we should be blessed with very hot and sunny weather we will seek out more shade based pursuits.

 

What if my child needs the loo?

We will have a porta potty on board for such eventualities but if we are near enough to the public toilet we will escort your child there.

 

What if my child is still in nappies?

That’s fine – please provide them with a nappy and a pack of wipes.  As above if we are close enough to the public toilet we will take your child there but we have our portable changing station on board too.

 

Can I come along?

You are welcome to come and settle your child when they first attend but we find that our explorers are able to immerse themselves in their adventures when they are able to feel that they are independent of their parents/carers. You will be able to see all the fun they have had in the Mini Explorers Log after the session when you will be provided to a link to Dropbox and invited to view photos of the session.

​