A Liverpool mum has set up a play centre especially designed for children with autism and ADHD.
Pop Play and Party Parlor in Dovecot is a fully inclusive venue where everyone is welcome.
But the venue has been adapted with needs of autism families in mind offering a calm and safe environment with enough space to play.
The play centre has only been open a few weeks with its official launch party this weekend which is already fully booked.
Owner Amy MacGlashan, 28, from Dovecot, said that so far she has had lots of positive feedback from families who have visited the centre.
Amy, who has two children including 16-month-old daughter Sky, told the ECHO : "The response has been amazing, families say that it is something that is so needed and they love the super chilled atmosphere. To them it's like a safe haven.
"We believe it isn't fair that families with children on the spectrum are limited to specific play sessions (usually at inconvenient times) to take their children to such play areas or activities.
"I have first hand experience with this as my four-year-old son Leo has suspected autism. This is what drives my passion for awareness, change and acceptance."
The number of children playing at one time is limited at the venue to prevent sensory overload and offers equipment and activities including a sensory den, sensory integrated toys, body socks, trampolines, stepping stones and sensory boards for an autism-friendly experience.
Amy, a former parent mentor at Five Children's Centre in Speke, added: "Other places are too packed, too loud and too bright. In our setting we still have everything kids enjoy but in a environment designed for kids with autism and the whole family can join in.
"We have a maximum of 10 kids playing at one time and it costs £5 for unlimited play during our quiet times. But at busier times when we are at capacity then play is limited to 90 minutes of play.
"We offer tea and coffee but families are welcome to bring their own food and drink in and eat at our picnic bench."
Pop Play and Party Parlor is open Tuesday to Friday from 10am to 5pm, Saturday 11am to 5pm, Sunday 11am to 4pm and Monday 1pm to 5pm. To book a play time you can call Amy on 0151 378 5687.
