News

Our Play Concepts Featured in the Sensory Movement Garden in Roosendaal

The Sensory Movement Garden in Roosendaal was recently featured in BN DeStem, and how exciting that our play concepts are part of it! The article highlights how children in this unique garden are encouraged to engage all their senses while playing: feeling, listening, balancing and exploring. Exactly the kind of play we love to support at IKC.The garden is filled with play triggers that invite children to get out of their heads and into their bodies. Seeing our concepts reflected in this environment makes us truly proud. It shows how a thoughtfully designed play space can support development, relaxation and joy.The fact that the garden has now been featured in the newspaper is a wonderful recognition for the initiators and a compliment to everyone involved in the project. In the end, it all comes down to one thing: giving children a place where they can play freely, discover and grow.Would you like to create a similar sensory-focused play experience at your location? We are happy to think along with you; from subtle sensory elements to complete play concepts.

12 November 2025

The Power of Playful Waiting

A playful waiting area is a proven strategy to improve the user experience in public spaces—such as airports, stations, and hospitals—and to make waiting feel shorter.By carefully aligning design, graphics, and interactive elements with the environment, waiting turns into a useful and pleasant moment.This article explores two concrete projects — a baby changing area with personalized ceiling panels at Beauvais Airport, and a wall decoration at Morlaix Hospital — to show how playful waiting spaces reduce stress, increase satisfaction, and improve the overall experience for both visitors and staff.Why playful waiting works: evidence and impactResearch consistently shows that a well-designed environment significantly reduces perceived waiting time and related stress.A study of outpatient waiting rooms found that the quality of the space influences satisfaction and time perception.Academic reviews and whitepapers (such as those from Haworth) highlight that visual distraction, clear information, and interactive elements help reduce stress and make waiting more pleasant.In practice, a playful waiting space works on three levels:Diverting attention: through play, movement, and visual elementsInforming: with clear, reassuring communicationResting: with warm colors and comfortable furnitureThis approach is especially effective for families: a child who plays means a parent who relaxes — and a smoother appointment overall.Project 1: Beauvais Airport — personalized ceiling panels in the baby changing areaBeauvais Airport features both public and private baby care rooms, ideal for family-oriented design solutions.For these spaces, IKC developed custom ceiling panels with soft colors, dreamy figures, and an imaginative storyline that draws the gaze upward—creating calm and visual distraction during diaper changes.Result: children calm down faster, parents feel less stressed, and staff are interrupted less often.A wall game offers additional distraction for siblings—a tangible example of playful waiting, perfectly suited for high-traffic environments like airports.The design also meets ERP regulations (safety and hygiene) and is easy to clean and maintain.Project 2: Morlaix Hospital — wall decoration to reduce anxiety in the waiting roomIn the pediatric waiting room of Morlaix Hospital, a calming wall decoration was installed.Research shows that the quality of waiting areas directly impacts the patient experience: well-designed spaces increase satisfaction and reduce perceived waiting time.That’s exactly the goal of a playful hospital waiting space — to ease tension, support medical interactions, and foster cooperation with young patients.Practical tips for creating playful waiting spaces in healthcare and transportFor facility managers and building administrators, these are quick and effective actions:Focus on family touchpoints – baby changing areas, pediatric waiting rooms, and family zones near gates.Design with a story – large visuals, soft colors, and a visual narrative.Use micro-interactions – tactile or visual elements (ceiling panels, playful stickers) attract attention without causing distraction.Studies (Utrecht University) show that relevant distraction shortens the perceived waiting time.Tip: integrate a game into the decor — for example, hidden-object pictures, riddles, or mazes.Evaluate and measure – test the impact with short surveys about satisfaction and time perception.Benefits for organizations: satisfaction, efficiency, and imageInvesting in a playful waiting space pays off in multiple ways:Higher visitor and patient satisfactionLess restlessness and fewer interruptions for staffPositive impact on visitors’ mental well-beingBetter work experience for teams through smoother interactionsScientific reviews confirm that the physical environment plays a key role in how people perceive waiting and how satisfied they feel.Further readingXuan, X., Li, Z., Chen, X., Cao, Y., & Feng, Z. (2021). Study of the physical environment of waiting areas and its effects on patient satisfaction, experience, perceived waiting time, and behavior in China. HERD, 14(3), 108–123. PubMedErard, J. (2017). Reducing perceived wait duration to improve patient experience [White paper]. Haworth. HaworthVan Nimwegen, C., & Van Rijn, E. (2023). Time swipes when you’re having fun: Reducing perceived waiting time while making it more enjoyable. Behaviour & Information Technology, 42(3), 307–315. Utrecht University

One of Our Bestsellers – And for Good Reason

When parents and educators think about play, they want more than just entertainment. They want safe, durable, and meaningful solutions that truly add value. Not only for children, but also for the environments they spend time in. That is exactly what the IKC Delta 17-inch wall game delivers: a compact, creative concept where technology and child development go hand in hand, without overstimulation or unnecessary screen time.Technology with PurposeWhile many digital products are designed for endless use, the Delta works differently. Its interactive touchscreen is programmed for short, educational play moments that spark curiosity without overstimulation. Children can solve puzzles, train their memory or explore playful themes. They add structure, rhythm and balance to a space instead of dominating it.Hygienic, Space-Saving & Built to LastTechnology alone isn’t enough. That’s why the Delta is also designed for daily use in busy environments such as retail stores, waiting rooms, restaurants, and healthcare spaces. Hygiene is simple, cleaning takes just seconds and every detail is built with robust, sustainable materials that withstand heavy use. With its vandal-proof design and low-maintenance setup, the Delta offers years of worry-free operation.Designed, Built and Installed by IKCWe design and manufacture every part of the Delta in-house, from the hardware to the software and installation. That means we can ensure quality, safety and performance at every stage — and adapt it to fit your space and audience.Play with PurposeAt IKC, we have spent more than 20 years creating safe, sustainable, and educational play concepts. The Delta 17-inch wall game shows how technology, when thoughtfully designed, can have a positive impact on children’s lives. Because at IKC, we believe every play concept should serve a greater purpose: creating joy for children while respecting the world they grow up in.Let’s transform your space into a place where children can play, learn, and feel at home. Reach out to our team and start building your play concept with IKC.Contact  

Play Today, Preserve Tomorrow: Why IKC Products Are Built to Last

Sustainability is no longer a trend; it has become an urgent matter. According to Forbes, around the world, people are more conscious than ever about the impact of their choices. At IKC, this awareness has been part of our DNA since the very beginning. Not only because we believe that play should never come at the expense of the planet, but also because we know that true quality and sustainability go hand in hand.Built to Last, From the StartFrom the very beginning, our vision has been clear: IKC play concepts are not made for quick use or constant replacement. Our aim has always been to produce high-quality play systems that last far beyond five years of daily use. To make this possible, every IKC product is built with durable materials and timeless designs that withstand the test of time in both style and strength.Proven SustainabilityMany companies claim to be sustainable, but we believe transparency is key. That’s why all our play systems are checked and tested according to the highest international standards. Among others, this means:Certified by SGS according to the EN-71 safety standardBuilt with the finest types of FSC-certified woodFinished only with paints free from harmful chemicalsDesigned to avoid plastics wherever possibleRecyclable products and materials to extend their life cycleVandalism-proof construction to ensure durability and safetyThese measures ensure that every product carrying the IKC name lives up to our promise: safe, sustainable, and built for the future.A Responsible ChoiceChoosing an IKC play corner means choosing more than just a product, it means choosing safety, sustainability, and responsibility. Parents, educators, and businesses can feel confident knowing our products are free from harmful substances, easy to clean, and compliant with the strictest international standards. That’s why our play concepts are designed to be enjoyed without guilt: because children deserve joyful play and a healthy planet at the same time.More Than Materials: A MindsetFor us, sustainability is not only about the wood, paint, or coatings we use. It is a mindset. By creating play concepts that are meant to last for years, we reduce the cycle of constant replacement, minimize waste, and lower our environmental footprint. This ensures that every investment in an IKC product truly pays off — for children, for families, for businesses, and for the world we share.Do you want to make the right choice for your organization and the world?Get in Touch

3 Steps to a Child-Friendly Space

Do you remember how carefree it felt to play? Playing hide-and-seek, building endless creations with blocks, or simply laughing at the funniest games? For children, play is more than just entertainment – it’s the way they discover the world.Play that moves with the timesTablets, game consoles, and interactive games are now a natural part of children’s lives. They can spark curiosity, stimulate creativity, and even encourage teamwork. But play is more than just digital.The real value lies in combining interactive play with classic activities such as wall games or soft play. This way, children develop motor skills, learn to cooperate, and use their imagination.A play corner in a shop, restaurant, or waiting area brings these worlds together. It draws children outside the home, gets them off the couch, and makes going out more enjoyable. While children are discovering and having fun, parents can enjoy a moment of relaxation.How to create a child-friendly space (3 steps)Step 1 – Choose safe and durable materialsChildren can only play freely when parents feel confident that the environment is safe. Think of sturdy wall games, rounded edges, and materials that are easy to clean.Step 2 – Offer variety in playNot every child plays the same way. By combining interactive games that encourage teamwork with calmer activities such as puzzles or wall games, there is something for every child to discover and learn.Step 3 – Make play part of the experienceA play corner doesn’t need to be a separate room. On the contrary, by cleverly integrating it into a waiting area, shop, or restaurant, you create a welcoming atmosphere. While children play, parents feel more at ease and can enjoy the environment.Give children the space to play within your organisation.

Why a Kids’ Corner Isn’t Just Nice to Have – It’s Smart Business

If your store doesn’t have a kids’ corner, you might be missing out on a valuable opportunity. And here’s why.Many retailers underestimate the impact of a well-designed play area. It’s often an afterthought, something vaguely on the radar but not prioritized. Yet, by not actively offering a kids’ corner, you could be overlooking a powerful way to improve the customer experience, boost brand loyalty, and significantly increase your average order value (AOV).Better Shopping Experience Starts With Happy KidsLet’s face it, shopping with children can be challenging. They get bored, hungry, or restless and may quickly become a distraction. This doesn’t just affect parents' patience, it directly impacts how much time they spend in your store and how they make purchase decisions.According to research published in the International Journal of Retail & Distribution Management, children have a direct influence on the time parents spend shopping and the purchases they make. That’s why keeping children entertained isn’t a luxury, it’s a strategic investment.A dedicated, safe and engaging play corner allows children to enjoy themselves, giving parents the space and calm they need to shop at ease. The result? A smoother, more enjoyable experience for the entire family.Better Experience = Higher SalesA great customer experience doesn’t just feel good, it pays off. Recent customer experience insights reveal that customers are shown to spend up to 140% more after a positive experience than customers with a negative one. Moreover, companies that focus on their customers can see up to 15% increase in AOV. That means by creating an environment where families feel welcome and cared for, they stay longer, browse more, and ultimately buy more, increasing the average spending per visit. Earn Loyalty Through Value, Lose it Through NeglectWhile increasing profits is key, maintaining consistent growth depends heavily on customer loyalty. According to PwC, 32% of customers will stop doing business with a brand after just one bad experience, whereas 77% would recommend a brand after a single positive one. In other words: first impressions matter. And for many parents, knowing their child is happy and safe while they shop creates a lasting, positive memory, one that brings them back again and again.Show You Care and Reap the BenefitsBy prioritizing family-friendly shopping environments, you’re not just creating space for children, you’re showing customers that you understand and care about their needs. And as the research shows, that care translates into better experiences, loyalty, and higher revenue.So, are you ready to elevate your business? Let’s connect and make it happen!

Happy kids, relieved parents – the power of play corners along the holiday route!

Family trips often come with their own surprises, especially in the lead-up to summer. As you travel toward your holiday destination, whether through France or elsewhere in Europe, you’ll spot IKC play elements at various motorway service areas. A fun discovery and a reminder of the positive impact these play corners can have in busy locations during the summer months.Service areas are typically places of transition, meant for taking a break between travel stages. For families, they’re the perfect opportunity to catch their breath, let the children move around, and continue the journey with renewed energy. A well-designed kids’ corner makes these stops more pleasant for everyone, especially during long drives. Children can release their energy, parents get a moment of rest, and the whole family travels on feeling more relaxed.For service area operators, offering a play space for young visitors means enhancing the overall customer experience, strengthening their brand image, and building loyalty among families who will remember the location positively. It’s also a smart way to encourage families to stop at their site. A well-thought-out play area can truly make a difference.Some of these spaces are now equipped with interactive touchscreens. A modern and engaging solution that suits all age groups. The screens offer a variety of games tailored to different skill levels and stages of development, ensuring that every child finds something fun to do. It’s a simple and effective way to keep children entertained while parents take a break, enjoy a coffee, or plan the next leg of their journey.Contact us!

Shopping Centers

In a shopping center, everything is designed to capture attention, streamline the customer journey, and create a memorable experience. But in the face of fierce competition and increasingly demanding consumers, one asset truly makes a difference: family services. At the heart of this strategy? A well-designed, visible, and engaging children’s area. But this space should also be accompanied by a host of smaller services to be truly meaningfulToday, play areas are no longer optional—they are a real strategic asset to extend visit duration, enhance the customer experience, and boost profitability. Good news: turnkey, sustainable, and maintenance-free solutions exist, perfectly suited for public buildings and shopping centers. IKC Play is here to support you—so follow the guide!A Real Attraction Lever to Win Over FamiliesFamilies choose their shopping destinations based on what’s available for their children. A shopping center with a play area anticipates their needs and turns a visit into a pleasant outing.And when we talk about family-friendly spaces, it’s not just about strollers at the entrance or accessible restrooms:A fun and safe play area allows children to wait while parents grab coffee, shop, or speak with sales staff.It shows you value their presence—a real emotional plus.It creates a landmark that encourages repeat visits and recommendations to other families.A Play Area = More Time Spent = More SpendingA well-designed play area means less stress for parents and more time spent in the center. More time equals more purchasing opportunities—and it’s backed by data:📈 Key Figures:Average visit time increases by 25–40% with a children’s area.Average spending increases by 10–20% in zones near the play space.Positive reviews on social media rise (Google reviews, Instagram, word-of-mouth).What works:Fixed, low-maintenance installations made of durable materials (wood, HPL panels…)Smart and moderate digital use (educational touchscreens)Age-appropriate, accessible designs that promote autonomy🎮 Wall games, modular foam structures, mini obstacle courses, or simple interactive kiosks are effective and durable solutions. You’ll find them in shopping centers, train stations, airport shuttles, and even cruise ships! Enhancing the Mall’s Image: From Service to StorytellingCreating a children’s space also sends a strong message: “Families are welcome here.” It contributes directly to brand image and is felt from the entrance.Our turnkey play areas are designed to blend perfectly with the center’s environment: Customized design Natural materials Safety and accessibility compliant Quick installation with no heavy construction💬 A well-placed structure in your center’s colors becomes a landmark. It helps guide visitors, adds warmth to the space, and enhances overall perception.A children’s area becomes a full-fledged marketing tool: It increases visit duration It builds family loyalty It creates positive memories (and Instagram-worthy photos) Pro Tip – Shopping Centers and Play Areas: Start with the Right QuestionsPlanning a children’s area? Great! Ask yourself: Who is it for? (children’s age, autonomy, presence of parents?) When will it be used? (waiting time? before meals? end of shopping?) What image do you want to convey? (warmth, modernity, sustainability?)The goal is simple: turn every visit into a successful family experience. A good play area isn’t a gimmick—it’s a strategic, profitable, and sustainable investment we can tailor to your needs and constraints.Bonus: From 2 m² to 100 m²—we adapt to your space and budget.Need help designing a children’s area in your shopping center? We’re here every step of the way—from design to installation, always with a smile  Contact us and let’s talk!

Coming Soon From The Desert

Behind the scenes, our designers have been hard at work, pouring their creativity into an exciting new collection. With a focus on innovation, playfulness, and quality, we can't wait to share what they created.The Safari Jeep features an interactive hood with a game module where children drive past animals to reach their destination. The dashboard feels realistic with magnetic buttons, and shifting is done with a magnet on the back. An additional play module can be added at the back for even more fun.In Road Trip, children drive through a desert town with a car, where a plate prevents the vehicles from falling off. By rotating the module, the cars move and navigate through exciting twists and turns.Tip of the Temple is a desert-themed maze game where children must guide a marble from top to bottom. It disappears through the temple, making it even more challenging.In Car Mountain Desert, the car buttons move through multiple levels, tunnels, and hills. The design includes graphic elements like an airplane and animals, enhancing the overall experience.The Desert Scooter is a playful version of the Safari Jeep, but as a scooter. There is space at the front for a play module, and with shifting options and turn signals, children enjoy the adventure even more.Finally, in Monster Sliding Food, children need to move the correct food to the right animal by sliding buttons fixed to the board. There’s also a variant where they must match the correct fur to the right animal. Contact us!