What will this be?
The Bright Side Play Place is a thoughtfully designed indoor play space in Northwestern Vermont for young children- and the grownups who love them.
We exist to make everyday parenting a little lighter.
At The Bright Side, children are free to climb, imagine, build, pretend, and explore in a safe, welcoming environment designed specifically for early childhood. At the same time, caregivers can exhale- knowing their kids are engaged, visible, and supported in a space that understands the realities of modern family life.
It’s a calmish, bright, intentionally curated environment where play has purpose, community is built naturally, and families feel genuinely welcome.
Designed for Kids. Built for Real Life.
The Bright Side Play Place is best suited for infants through early elementary-aged children, with developmentally appropriate play zones that encourage movement, creativity, and social connection.
We also believe that caregivers deserve comfort and dignity in public spaces. Our layout includes:
Clear sightlines so adults can relax while kids play
Comfortable seating and workspace areas
A small coffee corner
Clean, accessible restrooms with baby changing facilities
Infant feeding spaces
A welcoming atmosphere for parents, grandparents, caregivers, and caregivers-in-training alike
You don’t have to rush. You don’t have to apologize for your child being a child.
Why We Built It
The Bright Side Play Place was created in response to a simple but powerful need: families deserve better places to gather.
Parents today are juggling more than ever, often without extended family nearby or affordable, welcoming third spaces. We saw a gap between noisy entertainment venues and quiet adult-only spaces — and imagined something different.
A place that feels warm instead of overwhelming.
A place where kids are celebrated, not tolerated.
A place where community happens naturally.
That place is The Bright Side.
(image generated by AI based on our planned space and materials)
More Than a Play Space
The Bright Side Play Place is designed to be a community hub: a place families can return to again and again.
In addition to open play, we offer:
Birthday parties and private rentals
Membership options for families who want regular access
Seasonal programs, pop-up classes, and special events
Opportunities for collaboration with local educators, artists, and family-centered organizations
Our goal is not just to entertain children, but to support families- socially, emotionally, and practically.
Everyone Is Welcome Here
We are committed to being an inclusive, affirming, and accessible space for families of all kinds. However you arrived at parenthood, however your family is structured, however your day is going: you belong here.
Come play.
Come rest.
Come find your bright side.
Hi, I’m Caroline! I’m a Vermonter, mom of three and the founder of The Bright Side Play Place.
I created The Bright Side because I need it myself- a joyful, welcoming space where kids can move, imagine, and grow while caregivers can connect, work, or simply enjoy a cup of coffee while it’s still hot.
Inspired by my own experience parenting young children (mine are 6,4, and 2!), my mission is simple: build community, make literal space for fun, and help everyday family life a little brighter.
Bright Side is truly a love letter to local families and kids- I’m so glad you’re here!
Contact us
Interested in getting in touch? Fill out some info and we will be in touch shortly. We can’t wait to hear from you!