Milly Dobson, a foster mother of five, has opened an innovative play centre designed with both children and parents in mind, less than half an hour from Birmingham. Having frequently travelled more than 40 minutes from her Coleshill home to visit soft play centres with her own two children and three foster boys, Milly sought to create a local space where imaginations could flourish.
With a vision to provide more than just a play area, Milly-alongside her partner Daniel Pointer-transformed The Old Chapel on Birmingham Road, a building dating back to the 1800s. The chapel has held various roles over time, from nightclub and Indian restaurant to dance studio, and its historic character now provides a unique backdrop for Giggle, Wiggle and Grow.
“After years of fostering, I wanted to build a place where children and parents could come together-not only to play but to connect, find support and build friendships,” said Milly, 28, who has young children Nellie, three, and Reggie, one. “It was essential that the environment was safe, clean and stimulating. We focus on imagination, sensory play catering to children with special educational needs (SEN), and soft play features.”
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The centre includes an Imagination Village complete with a fire station, ice cream van, school, veterinary practice, supermarket and hair salon, all arranged around communal tables for parents to relax and watch their children. Soft play elements include a ball pit, slide and climbing frame, alongside a sensory space enhanced with lighting effects.
Since its opening in August, Giggle, Wiggle and Grow has welcomed return visitors, with families drawn to its friendly, inclusive atmosphere. Milly and Daniel remain actively involved, offering table service and striving to maintain a welcoming family business feel.
Milly brings with her a background as a horse riding instructor in the UK and Dubai. She and Daniel started fostering seven years ago and have cared for 17 children alongside raising their two biological kids. Their experiences have given Milly a deep understanding of children’s needs, particularly those with autism-her son is four and benefits greatly from the calm environment their centre provides.
“Many parents of SEN children tell me their little ones thrive here. We keep numbers low to maintain a relaxed space, allowing parents to enjoy a coffee while keeping a close eye on their children,” Milly explained. “I used to dislike the feeling of not being able to see my kids in traditional play spaces, but here you can view every corner.”
The café offers a menu beyond typical play centre fare, featuring homemade cakes, sausage rolls, pancakes, waffles, and more distinctive options like avocado on sourdough, halloumi with sweet potato, loaded fries, and southern fried chicken sandwiches. The quality reflects Milly’s mother’s influence-a former British Airways stewardess-and the expertise of their chef.
Milly credits her grandmother’s compassionate spirit for inspiring her to foster. “She was always helping others, especially at Christmas or those in need,” Milly said. “Before she passed in 2020, she encouraged me to pursue fostering. It’s challenging work but incredibly rewarding to provide a safe haven for children with difficult backgrounds.”
Giggle, Wiggle and Grow is more than a business to the family; it is integrated into their daily lives. The children even helped decorate the centre, their handprints marking one wall as a lasting imprint.
This new play centre promises a safe, creative and supportive environment where families can enjoy quality time together in a setting full of character and warmth.