Kid Factory Play Centre in Dingley is a huge indoor play space opened by two local mums containing all the features that they would want for their own children.

They invited me to check it out and as Baby 2.0 careered around for 2 hours I enjoyed a rare sit down. Bliss!

Kid Factory is well spread out, with good sight lines on most of the equipment as it’s all set out in a straight line and with seating the whole length of the way. There’s only one gated entry/exit even if you do have a runner.

It’s clean, spacious and heated, with good lighting so you don’t feel like you’re stuck in a dark shed.

There are enough toys and games to keep kids of all ages amused for a couple of hours. Down one end is a traditional jungle gym with slides, climbing frames, ball pit and single person trampolines.

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Next to it is a mini trampoline park with basketball rings that is particularly popular with older kids.

Under 4s have a fenced area of their own, with smaller soft equipment suitable for the age group such as a foam blocks, a mini merry-go-round and another ball pit.

Under 2s have a separate area yet again which is not fenced but rather bounded by low foam blocks with Fisher Price plastic activity centres.

Finally there’s a ‘Playtona’ obstacle course inflatable jumping castle and a sports court for ball games.

There are also four themed party rooms – fairies, superheroes, toddlers (Peppa Pig/Bananas in Pyjamas) and sports.

You’re not allowed to BYO food (baby food and formula excepted) so the cafe offers a standard menu of reasonably priced food such as $3 kids sandwiches to $15 chicken souvlaki – though oddly a cup of tea with a teabag is $4.50. There’s a disabled toilet with change facilities and high chairs.

There is free parking for 40 cars on site and more in nearby streets, with no time restrictions. Best to get in early when it opens at 9:15am for a close parking spot and the whole space to yourself!

Kid Factory is a great option when the weather’s wet or cold and there’s enough space in the cafe so that you can easily catch up with family and friends. Baby 2.0 loved it and I enjoyed the break!

HOT Tips:

• Pram-friendly;
• Free unlimited off-street parking and on-street parking;
• Entry fee includes unlimited play. No need to book;
• You must wear socks for hygiene reasons. No socks no play;
• You cannot BYO food and drinks, baby food and formula excepted;
• High chairs, kids menu;
• Disabled toilet with change facilities; and
• Party rooms and packages available.