If youβre anything like us, youβve tried most of Calgaryβs indoor play options β from big trampolines to giant inflatable zones and classic multi-level playgrounds. But every now and then, a space comes along that feels truly different.
We Rock the Spectrum Kidβs Gym isnβt just another indoor playground. First, itβs a gym AND a playground. And second β itβs a sensory-friendly, neuro-inclusive play gym designed for children of all abilities.
After a recent visit with kids of varying ages and personalities, hereβs our honest, detailed review of what to expect and why itβs quickly becoming one of our familyβs favourite play spaces in Calgary.
We Rock the Spectrum Kid’s Gym & Indoor Playground
We Rock The Spectrum Kidβs Gym isnβt just about running around and burning energy (although thatβs a big part of it!). This place is built to support pretend play, creative exploration, sensory development, and gross motor skills.
The gym is laid out to accommodate kids of all abilities, including children on the autism spectrum, kids with sensory processing needs, and β of course β big bundles of boundless energy.
One of the first things youβll notice when you walk in is that it feels calm β not overwhelming like some bigger play zones can be. The play spaces are thoughtfully spaced, with plenty of room in each for every kid who wants to play and explore.
Inclusive & Sensory-Friendly Play
One of the coolest things about this gym (and honestly, what sets it apart from many other indoor playgrounds) is its focus on sensory-friendly experiences and an amazing play area for infants.
Use code TWTS20%OFF on your next visit to save
The code can be used for open play and for multiple-visit open play packages
Thereβs no arcade area with an overwhelming sensory assault of flashing lights. Already a big plus for me as a parent.
Once you walk in, you see separated play areas with different equipment on the left:
- Game Room
- Building Room with lots of blocks and lego
- Arts & Craft with drawing supplies and sensory bins
- Infant & Toddler Area with lots of age-appropriate toys, climbing Pikler triangles & ramp, and big animals for bouncing or swinging
- Pretend Play with different stations: a shop, ice cream truck, doctorβs office, kitchen, restaurant, and some costumes to make it even more real
On the right, there are endless climbing and fun structures, including a climbing wall, slides, rope climbing, and smaller climbers for little toddlers.
And thatβs not all! The back area can be both calming and a great energy-burning place. It includes swings, crash mats, balance tools, and other gear meant to stimulate vestibular and proprioceptive senses in a safe and supervised way.
The zip line was a huge hit among older kids; the preschoolers were mainly hanging out in the pretend area or on the climbers, and our little toddler loved the roller coaster track he rode endlessly on his four-wheel motorbike.
The features why this play space stands out from others are:
- Reading Nook with an actual comfy couch and books
- Calming Room that is dark, quiet, and filled with sensory materials and lights
The last corner of the play space is a picnic area with highchairs. While the gym doesnβt offer any snacks or meals, Iβm happy to rather bring my own than be forced to buy overpriced fried meals like many other indoor playgrounds do (where youβre not allowed to eat your own food, but rather need to buy).
Use code TWTS20%OFF on your next visit to save
The code can be used for open play and for multiple-visit open play packages
Info for visiting We Rock The Spectrum Kid’s Gym
- Address: 440 28 St NE, Calgary T2A 6T8
- Contact: 403-454-0446, [email protected], We Rock The Spectrum
- Open: Monday β Saturday from 10 am to 7 pm, Sundays from 10 am to 5 pm
- Admission: 20 Cad per child, 18 Cad siblings, 15 Cad under 3, free for kids under 12 months with a paying sibling Β
Useful tips for We Rock The Spectrum Kid’s Gym
- Kids under one and adults are free
- Up to 2 adults can accompany a kid
- Socks are mandatory (no shoes); they also offer socks for purchase if you forget yours
- Bring your own picnic which you can eat at the seating area; high chairs for little ones are provided; water fountain is also on-site
Other play spaces in Calgary
- Early Learning Centres in Calgary Public Libraries
- Creative Kids Museum at Telus Spark Science Centre
- Treehouse indoor playground
- Sky Castle indoor playground
- Flying Squirrel trampoline park
- Big Box indoor playground
Have you visited the We Rock The Spectrum Kidβs Gym? Share with us your experience in the comments.
