It’s a familiar tale: there’s no quicker way to become painfully aware of a void in the NYC parenting market (particularly your own little corner of it) than to become a parent yourself. That’s the story behind Busy Bodies Brooklyn, “a space for families to come together for open play, classes, events, lectures and parties.” The space opened its doors in June, and the joint is already jumpin’ with classes for kids, parties, and offerings for parents, too!
photo: via Busy Bodies Brooklyn Facebook page
A New Take on the Average Play Space
When Clinton Hill mom Andrea Dillon began bringing her young daughter to play spaces around NYC, she realized her neighborhood, filled with young families, was in desperate need of one. When she spotted the perfect storefront to create her vision of the ideal, kid- and parent-friendly play space in her home turf, she opened Busy Bodies Brooklyn.
Visitors will not encounter a cluttered, rowdy playroom here. Instead, a bright, airy space transitions from art area to open playroom, helping to reduce the stress for all involved. With a dash of Brooklyn style, an inviting outdoor patio, and music that’s equally kid- and parent- friendly, Busy Bodies is intentionally created so all ages can follow their curiosity, and caretakers can relax a bit (or even make an art project of their own).
photo: via Busy Bodies Brooklyn Facebook page
Open Play
Do you have a young one who simply needs a new place to play and socialize? Busy Bodies provides daily Open Play sessions at a variety of times throughout the week for kids four-years-old and younger (including infants), all of whom must be accompanied by a caregiver. (Check the online calendar to see times and book.) For $20 ($17 if you buy a class pass) you can let your child roam in a safe, engaging environment chock full of mats, art supplies, toys, books and games.
photo: via Busy bodies Facebook page
Play Group
Want something more structured? Busy Bodies also offers a 1 hour and 30 minute Playgroup which allows children two years old (or young threes) to socialize, begin to gain independence and prepare for preschool.
The class includes guided open play, story time, arts & crafts and a group snack. This is a gentle separation group class which, as an option, allows parents or caregivers to leave once the child is comfortable in his/her environment. An eight-week, 15-class session is $300, and you can also drop in for a single class for $25.
photo: via Busy Bodies Brooklyn Facebook page
Get Busy!
In addition to open play, this relatively new spot has already rolled out tons of classes for the kids set, and even some for adults. Options include Mommy & Me Yoga; yoga for toddlers; music and movement classes for kids and caregivers with Moosiki; art classes for toddlers and older kids; yoga/music classes with Yo Re Mi, and dance and creative movement.
Events include a Spanish singalong on Fridays and puppet shows and for moms, or moms-to-be, Busy Bodies Brooklyn hosts a Lactation Support Group, as well as courses in preconception and prenatal care.
Drop-ins Welcome
No need to worry about over-committing or registering, all Open Play sessions and most classes work on a drop-in basis. You may also want to check out the Busy Body Unlimited Weekly plan ($45) or Monthly Membership ($160) that provide unlimited access to open play. All passes and classes can be purchased online or in person.
Book Busy Bodies
Think Busy Bodies would be a perfect place for a birthday party, workshop or book reading? The space offers an all-inclusive Birthday Package, and is available for evening and weekend rentals as well. Prices range based on event and time of day.
On the Horizon
Even with all this happening at Busy Bodies, there’s still more to come! Dillon promises new playgroups, a basement addition decked out with instruments and more classes for adults and older children.
Busy Bodies Brooklyn
1004 Fulton St.
Clinton Hill
(929) 337-6584
Online: busybodiesbrooklyn.com
Does your neighborhood need a play space? Let the world know in the comments!
— Liz Kleisner
