A new family-run business has started offering mobile soft-play rentals aimed at the youngest children in the community, promising a hassle-free option for parents organising parties, community events and public gatherings.
What the service provides
Storytime Playroom, operated by Charles and Jamie Wellington, began taking bookings in July 2026. The company supplies bespoke soft-play areas designed primarily for crawlers and toddlers up to the age of five. The Wellingtons say the equipment is brought to the event location, assembled on-site and removed once the occasion ends.
The play packages include a range of cushioned equipment:
- Foam climbing blocks and protective foam flooring
- Soft slides suitable for very young children
- Ball pits, building blocks and ride-on toys
The company emphasises that its soft-play setups are distinct from larger inflatables such as bounce houses, which can be less suitable where older and younger children mix. The Wellingtons say their product creates a contained, cushioned environment for toddlers.
Why the market matters locally
For parents and event organisers in Grays, child-friendly entertainment that is both safe and low-maintenance can be hard to source. Small venues, community centres and household hosts frequently face logistical issues when accommodating very young children alongside older siblings or large crowds. A mobile soft-play option that includes delivery, setup and pack-down aims to reduce the burden on families and volunteers while providing a dedicated space for pre-school children.
The Wellingtons framed their motivation in practical terms. They told local media they had identified a gap in the market and wanted to offer a "fresh, engaging, and stress-free entertainment option" for families and event planners.
"As parents, we know how tough it can be to keep toddlers and young kids safely entertained during parties, so we wanted to build a business that makes life easier for parents while creating magical experiences for little ones."
Safety and suitability
According to the information released by the business, the design focus is on early childhood needs. Soft, low-height apparatus and protective flooring reduce the risk of injury compared with harder-surfaced play areas. The decision to target children up to five years old is intended to reduce size and rambunctiousness mismatches that often occur in mixed-age play settings.
While the firm states its equipment is high-quality and cushioned, there are no publicly available independent safety assessments attached to the announcement. Event organisers should therefore continue to seek routine assurances on cleaning regimes, supervision recommendations and insurance cover when booking third-party children's entertainment.
Practical considerations for bookings
The business model—delivery, installation and subsequent removal—suits private parties, community gatherings and events at halls or outdoor spaces where temporary, contained play is needed. Hosts should note the following factors when considering a booking:
| Consideration | Why it matters |
|---|---|
| Space and access | Vehicles and staff need clear access and a flat area for safe installation |
| Supervision | Hosts should ensure adequate adult supervision despite padded equipment |
| Cleaning | Confirm cleaning and hygiene protocols, especially after public events |
At this early stage the Wellingtons have begun building a presence in the local market. For many families in Grays, the arrival of another child-centred service may broaden options for celebrating birthdays, community fairs and other gatherings where very young children are present.
Prospective customers are advised to contact the company directly for full details on availability, specific equipment lists, pricing and any insurance or health-and-safety documentation they require before hiring.
