We enjoyed coming here, but a recent interaction showed us this business is no longer the right fit for our young children.
Last week during open morning play, my 3-year-old ran across the mats in front of children on obstacles. This was unsafe and warranted a reminder. However, rather than speaking directly to her or to me, the owner stopped all open play and addressed my toddler loudly in front of the group when she did not immediately come over for a group safety talk, telling her she needed to make a choice to go over to him and that this talk was mostly about her. She froze out of fear and embarrassment.
When I reached her and picked her up, we listened to the safety talk, and I reinforced the rules with her. Afterward, when her grandmother tried to explain to the owner that his approach had frightened and embarrassed a preschooler, he responded that it was better for her to be scared than hurt. I admittedly lost my temper and raised my voice to challenge his approach. I suggested other options such as speaking directly to her or to me, but he emphasized that it was his business and he would run it how he saw fit, stating that he did not care what I thought.
I understand the need for strict safety rules, and I expressed this. At the same time, I believe it is possible to enforce those rules while treating young children with patience and basic respect. Based on this interaction, I felt dismissed both as a parent and as a customer. I was not comfortable with how the situation was handled with my young child or with the response we received when we expressed our concerns.
I initially hesitated to write a review, but a week later one of my other children who witnessed the incident said to me, "Mom, remember that man at Ninja who doesn't like [sister]?" That comment made me realize that the interaction had stayed with my children, prompting me to share our experience.
For that reason, I would not encourage families with young children to attend open play. read more
