Kids Let Loose at Kidnetic

Since the mid-2000's, has been providing a place for parents and their kids to come and have a good time in Montville.

"It is an enrichment center, so the parents can come and relax while the kids can play and get their energy out," Kendra Asfor, manager of Kidnetic, said. "It's enough space for them to really run around and get their energy out and enough inspiration to be creative, but they get to create the castles and obstacle course so it's not like they're going to something like a video game that's already made up. They really get to be creative and social in a contained, safe environment. The parents can play or they can sit and work on their laptops and have a coffee."

Created by two mothers-Danielle Paul and Carolyn Schwartz, who have since sold the business-Kidnetic is more than just an indoor playground. It was created to give parents a safe, clean place to bring their kids that will also challenge the youngsters mentally and creativley.

"We have art classes, music and movement classes, dance classes," Asfor said. "We used to do a cross-training class, like physical fitness for older kids. We have (one class that's a) live music and a puppet show kind of entertainment and children's sign language. There's potential for more, that's just whats running right now. I'd say there's about five classes right now."

Camp classes that are a little longer will be offered in the summer where children can have their open play and free time but also have structured learning time in the art room or in the classroom.

"(It's a lot of) team-building, self-esteem-building, physical fitness," Asfor said.

Asfor said that Kidnetic, located at 2 Changebridge Road, also offers a "Family Night" once a month and a "Kids' Night Out." "Family Nights," which are usually held on Fridays or Saturdays, consist of themes. For example, during the holiday season there is a Christmas party and during Easter, the Easter Bunny comes in and poses for pictures with children. "Kids' Night Out" is where "the parents can go out to dinner and we entertain, feed the kids; the staff loves it. It's their favorite thing because they get to hang out for a couple of hours," Asfor said.

Kidnetic's plan seems to be working, as customers brave the elements to flock to the play place regularly.

"This is one of the few places where, as a mom of two, I can come and not have to chase my (child) and have an adult conversation, which is really a pleasure. And he has fun, that's most important," Pamela Khan, a patron, said. "Absolutely (I would recommend Kidnetic). And I come from Livingston, which is maybe 20 minutes away, and I still prefer to come here over other places."

"We come every week," a West Milford resident and patron said. "It's a very nice facility, it's a very clean facility. The kids have a great time, it's safe. The kids love it. I would recommend it to other parents."

Kidnetic also offers food and beverages including coffee, basic fountain sodas, juices, chicken nuggets and pizza.

"Coming soon are smoothies, salads and some healthier choices," Asfor said.

Although there is only one Kidnetic now, Asfor said the business would be open to expansion in the future.

"It seems like when people come they just wish there was one closer to their house. They really love it," she said.

"I really think it's great because the kids can get out and be social and get out their energy, which, if they don't, they get cranky and can get creative in naughty ways at the house."

For more information about classes, booking birthday parties or questions, visit Kidnetic's website.