News

The Growing Importance of Indoor Play in Today's World

As urban spaces expand and outdoor play areas become scarcer, many children are missing out on the joys and benefits of playing outside. A recent article (Dutch) highlights how safety concerns, overcrowded spaces, and the rise of digital entertainment are shifting children’s playtime indoors, despite their continued love for outdoor activities. These challenges underscore the growing need for alternatives that support active, imaginative play even when outdoor spaces are unavailable. This makes indoor play spaces more important than ever.Indoor Play: A Safe, Engaging, and Essential Solution International Kids Concepts (IKC) specialises in creating safe, sustainable, and engaging indoor play environments that allow children to thrive, regardless of external conditions. Our designs are made to inspire and support healthy development through active, imaginative play.Indoor play areas foster creativity, enhance cognitive skills, and provide a space for children to engage socially. In these controlled, engaging environments, children can grow physically, mentally, and emotionally, all while having fun.As the need for accessible and stimulating play spaces becomes more urgent, we continue to focus on sustainability, using eco-friendly materials and designing for longevity. Every space we create is built with both the child and the planet in mind.Why Indoor Play MattersWhen outdoor play options are limited, indoor play becomes crucial. A well-designed indoor play area offers children the opportunity to stay active, develop motor skills, and cultivate problem-solving abilities in a safe and nurturing environment. At IKC, we are committed to opening up the world of play for kids—creating spaces where they can explore, learn, and grow, no matter where they are.Let’s discuss how we can improve play for kids all over the worldContact us!

VVZ ’49: Where Soccer Meets Family Fun

At soccer club VVZ ’49 in Soest, it’s about more than just soccer. Under the leadership of Antonio van den Hengel—who has fulfilled various roles within the club over the past 16 years—VVZ ’49 has grown into a family-friendly space where everyone, young and old, feels at home. Antonio, also the owner of the restaurant Korte Duinen, brought his expertise in family-friendly entrepreneurship to VVZ ’49, joining forces with the owner of StoryZoo to create a unique kids' corner.The collaboration with IKC ensured the kids' corner is not only functional but also perfectly aligned with the needs of young children.The idea for a kids' corner at VVZ ’49 was initiated by the sponsorship committee. Johannes Gropp, an active member of the committee and the owner of StoryZoo, suggested developing the kids' corner in partnership with StoryZoo. This led to a successful collaboration reflected in the design of the corner. StoryZoo is an educational brand for children aged 2 and up, known for its TV show StoryZoo Adventures. It also collaborates with the Van Gogh Museum, the European Space Agency, and the London Symphony Orchestra. StoryZoo's educational and enriching approach is evident in the custom play elements designed by IKC.With Antonio's experience implementing a play concept in his restaurant, IKC was able to carry out the project quickly and efficiently.Many families visit the club because one child plays soccer, but younger siblings who tag along often have little to do. To make their time enjoyable while waiting for their brother or sister, the club decided to set up a kids' corner for children aged 2 to 6. The IKC kids' corner offers a safe and inviting space where children can play, burn off energy in the panna cage, and enjoy a healthy snack. This turns a visit into a family outing and takes the burden off parents.The club currently has 450 members and focuses on attracting the youngest players. To achieve this, excellent facilities for young children are essential, especially since new developments are primarily happening on the other side of Soest and in Soesterberg. Creating a family-friendly environment is a key priority, including giving the outdoor playground a facelift.When children are entertained, it creates a calmer and more harmonious atmosphere throughout the clubhouse, benefiting other visitors as well.The kids' corner has been a resounding success. Every Saturday, the play area is full of children playing carefree, while their parents and older siblings enjoy matches or training. The kids' corner has not only improved the atmosphere at the club but has also played a significant role in creating a welcoming and homey environment. It also enhances the "third half"—the post-match period when parents and members can socialize without worrying about their kids.A great example of the kids' corner's appeal is Antonio's daughter, Joniene. Every time Antonio heads to the club, his five-year-old daughter eagerly wants to join, just to play in the kids' corner. This demonstrates how the corner engages both children and their parents, strengthening ties to the club.Thanks to the kids' corner and a focus on family activities, VVZ ’49 has become a truly enjoyable soccer club—a place where families come together, children have fun, and adults can relax and enjoy the "third half."Through the Grote Clubactie (National Club Campaign), clubs can easily raise funds, with proceeds going directly to club projects that appeal to both young and old—such as a new kids' corner! This campaign makes it possible for sports clubs to create the perfect kids' corner.Would you like to enhance your visitors' experience and enjoy the added benefits a kids' corner brings to your association?Contact us for advice. Together, we’ll design a kids' corner tailored to your needs and aligned with your sports club.Contact us! 

Recreatie Vakbeurs: the Encore!

From November 12th to 14th, 2024, the Recreatie Vakbeurs will take place, and IKC will be there once again! Known as a platform where innovation and inspiration come together, this event promises to be a memorable edition, just like last year, where we’ll showcase our latest developments in play value. Will you visit us at booth 543?Our design and marketing team has created an impressive booth that clearly highlights our products and their play value. Within this space, we’ll present our most recent projects and products. We can’t wait to put our Play@IKC concept in the spotlight, alongside our incredible projects! We’ve paid special attention to integrating the latest innovations in play value, sustainability, and brand styling! Expect surprising, challenging, and above all, high-play-value products that will captivate both children and adults.We invite you to visit the Recreatie Vakbeurs this year at Evenementenhal Hardenberg. Be sure to save the dates, November 12-14, in your calendar and use the button below to register for this annual recreation event free of charge. Our team looks forward to welcoming you to our booth!Whether you're looking for the latest trends in recreation or are interested in our projects and products, the Recreatie Vakbeurs is the ideal place for inspiration. We look forward to meeting you and creating an unforgettable experience together during the 2024 Recreatie Vakbeurs.I'll be there!

A young girl playing in a play system from IKC in the form of a van

19 August 2024

The Future of Play

As we approach 2025, the role of play areas in adult-focused environments is evolving. Businesses in retail, hospitality, and healthcare are increasingly recognizing the need to create spaces where children feel welcome and engaged. This shift isn’t just about keeping kids entertained—it’s about enhancing the overall customer experience, which directly benefits your business. Here’s a look at the key trends shaping the future of play areas and how International Kids Concepts (IKC) is leading the way with our innovative Play@IKC solutions.Creating Safe Havens for KidsIn a busy world designed primarily for adults, children often struggle to find spaces where they can play comfortably. Businesses are now seeing the value of integrating child-friendly areas into their environments. Kids' Corners provide a safe space for children to relax, especially in places where they might otherwise be restless or stressed, like doctor’s offices or busy showrooms.When children are happily occupied, parents can focus on shopping, dining, or attending appointments without distractions. This leads to longer visits, more relaxed customers, and a positive environment for both patrons and employees. Businesses that cater to families often see increased customer loyalty and better word-of-mouth recommendations.Innovation with Play@IKC: Setting a New StandardAs businesses look toward the future, they seek innovative solutions that are not only functional but also align with modern values. Play@IKC is our answer to this demand. This modular play concept fits seamlessly into any environment, offering children a dedicated space to play while being aesthetically pleasing and durable.Play@IKC is a prime example of how innovation can elevate your business. These play corners are flexible, allowing customization to meet the specific needs of your space. They are easy to maintain, visually appealing, and create an inviting atmosphere for children, enhancing the overall experience for all customers.Integrating SustainabilitySustainability is more than a trend; it’s a necessity. Today’s consumers are increasingly eco-conscious, and this extends to the environments they choose for their children. At IKC, we are committed to sustainability in every aspect of our Play@IKC products. We use durable, eco-friendly materials that are built to last, reducing waste and ensuring that our play areas are as kind to the planet as they are fun for kids.By investing in sustainable play solutions, your business appeals to environmentally conscious customers and reduces long-term maintenance costs. Sustainable designs are durable and withstand heavy use, particularly in high-traffic areas. This aligns your brand with values that are increasingly important to today’s consumers, enhancing your reputation and customer loyalty.Enhancing Play ValueWhile educational play has its place, the main goal in most public spaces is to offer kids a chance to play, relax, and simply be kids. The right play area creates an inviting atmosphere where children can engage in unstructured, imaginative play that allows them to recharge. This is especially important in environments where the focus is typically on adult activities.By providing a dedicated play area, your business can stand out as a family-friendly destination. This can significantly improve customer satisfaction, making your venue a preferred choice for families. Whether it’s a cozy corner in a restaurant or a play zone in a retail store, these spaces can transform the overall customer experience, encouraging families to return again and again.Designing Spaces That Work for EveryoneModern play areas are about more than just keeping kids busy—they integrate seamlessly into the business environment. Designs that are visually appealing, easy to maintain, and built to last are key. At International Kids Concepts (IKC), we specialize in creating play areas that are as attractive and durable as they are fun and safe.A well-designed play area is an investment in your business. It shows that you care about your customers’ entire experience, from the moment they walk in the door until they leave. This not only boosts customer satisfaction but also enhances your brand’s reputation as a place that values all its guests, no matter their age.Why Choose IKC?At International Kids Concepts, we lead the way in creating innovative, sustainable, and engaging play solutions for businesses worldwide. Our Play@IKC concept is at the forefront of these trends, offering businesses a way to create child-friendly spaces that are both practical and appealing. By integrating these play areas into your environment, you’re not just adding a feature—you’re enhancing your brand and improving the overall experience for your customers.Ready to transform your space? Contact us today to discover how Play@IKC can create inviting, child-friendly areas that enhance your business.Contact Us

The Benefits of a Kids Corner in Airports

Travelling with children can often be a challenging experience for families. Long waits, delays, and the general hustle and bustle of an airport can lead to restless and irritable kids. However, airports with dedicated kids corners are transforming this experience, turning travel time into enjoyable moments for families. At IKC, we are proud to have recently completed projects at Menorca Airport, Lodz Airport, and Flughafen Hannover-Langenhagen GmbH, along with many others, making travel more pleasant for families, other travellers and airport staff alike.Creating a Family-Friendly Environment One of the main advantages of having a kids corner in an airport is the creation of a family-friendly environment. Our installations at various airports have been specifically designed to cater to the needs of young travellers. Located at the departure gates, these kids corners are equipped with interactive play systems that keep children engaged and entertained while waiting for their flights.Ana, a family traveller who recently used our kids corner at Menorca Airport, shared her experience: “I am thrilled with the service offered by the airport. My children can stay entertained while we wait for our flight. It makes the whole experience so much more pleasant for us all.”   Benefits for Airports For airport authorities and staff, having a kids corner brings multiple benefits. Firstly, it reduces stress for parents, leading to a smoother and more efficient boarding process. Happy children mean happy parents, which in turn creates a more positive atmosphere within the terminal. This improvement in the passenger experience can enhance the overall reputation of the airport.Furthermore, airports with kids corners can drive up sales in airport stores, restaurants, and other services. When children are entertained and occupied, parents have more freedom to explore retail and dining options without the pressure of keeping their children amused. This increased dwell time can lead to higher spending per passenger, benefiting the airport's commercial partners.Moreover, airports with kids corners can market themselves as family-friendly destinations, attracting more family travellers and setting themselves apart from other airports. This added value can be a significant factor in a family's choice of airport, especially for frequent travellers.Looking AheadWe are proud of the successful installations at Menorca Airport, Lodz Airport, and Flughafen Hannover-Langenhagen GmbH, and are excited about our ongoing and upcoming projects to bring more kids corners to airports around the world. IKC is committed to enhancing the travel experience for families globally.The addition of a kids corner in an airport not only improves the experience for young travellers and their families but also benefits airport operations and marketing. By providing a dedicated space for children to play and interact, airports can create a more pleasant, efficient, and family-friendly environment.For more information about our projects and to see our kids corners in action, visit our Menorca Airport project page or check out our latest updates on LinkedIn and Instagram.Interested in a kids corner for you airport?Contact us!

At Eye Clinic Oog op Zuid, waiting has become much more pleasant.

Eye Clinic Oog op Zuid, a prominent eye care institution in Rotterdam, aimed to enhance the waiting experience for all their patients. Karrie, the care manager at Oog op Zuid, along with the management team, recognized the importance of creating a child-friendly space for their youngest patients, thereby improving the overall experience for all visitors. Leveraging their extensive healthcare experience, they ensured the best outcome for the clinic.The introduction of a play area not only helps children stay relaxed but also brings calm to parents and all other visitors.About Oog op ZuidOogkliniek Oog op Zuid was established by eight experienced ophthalmologists, all with extensive careers in nearby hospitals. The clinic is dedicated to providing excellent eye care and is equipped with high-quality medical equipment. Each ophthalmologist brings their own extensive expertise, ensuring that all patients receive professional care. Since its opening in 2021, the clinic has focused on maintaining the highest standards of medical care.Quality Requires IKCIKC is renowned for creating high-quality, safe, and inspiring play areas for children. We design, manufacture, and install children’s corners worldwide for various sectors, including retail, hospitality, recreation, healthcare, and project developers. Our mission is to make every environment more child-friendly, allowing children to enjoy endless fun in a safe and educational space.The management team was already familiar with IKC’s reputation for high-quality play concepts and reliable service, based on their experience in healthcare. They knew that IKC’s products are durable and fully customizable. When the budget for the children’s corner at Oog op Zuid was secured by sponsors, they immediately knew they wanted to collaborate with IKC for a suitable play solution. Together with our account manager, Corrie van der Beek, who provided expert and tailored advice that met the specific needs of Oog op Zuid, they achieved a wonderful result."We were very impressed with the in-depth knowledge and advice provided by Corrie," said the management team.Creating the Children’s CornerThe management team had a clear vision for the children’s corner: it needed to be engaging yet calming, without interactive screens or noisy elements. This decision was influenced by the orthoptists working in the clinic and recommendations from the Dutch Association of Orthoptists (NVVO), which notes that many young children already face excessive screen time.IKC designed a themed play area featuring the iconic Rotterdam skyline, incorporating the names of local sponsors of the children’s corner into the design. The sponsorship funds were so substantial that the theme was extended to the walls of the two orthoptic examination rooms, creating a cohesive and welcoming atmosphere throughout the clinic. This beautiful skyline, combined with our wall games and the “All Aboard” play system, provides a harmonious blend of relaxation and entertainment.Impact and FeedbackSince the installation of the IKC children’s corner, the clinic has observed a noticeable improvement in the atmosphere of the waiting room. Previously, without a dedicated play area, children were often restless, making the waiting room noisy. Now, with a designated play space, calm has returned to the waiting area.Previously, children were often anxious and had difficulty managing their energy. Now, the children’s corner offers a peaceful and cozy environment where they can play and relax while waiting for their treatments.The management team appreciates IKC’s dynamic and flexible approach, noting that IKC was always attentive and responsive to the clinic’s needs. The children’s corner has not only provided necessary distractions for the children but also brought unity and a more relaxed atmosphere to the clinic.Summarizing their experience with IKC, the management team stated: “IKC may be perceived as expensive, but their quality matches the price. The collaboration was pleasant, and the results speak for themselves. The children’s corner is not just about entertainment; it’s about creating a serene and familiar environment that benefits children, parents, and other visitors alike.”IKC would like to thank Oog op Zuid for their continued trust in us.Ready to transform your waiting area?Contact us today!

Welcome to Play@IKC: Where Imagination Knows No Bounds

In the world of child's play, IKC stands as a beacon of creativity and adventure, transforming ordinary spaces into extraordinary experiences. We are proud to deliver quality kids' corners around the world and are continuously improving and expanding our expertise.Introducing Play@IKC! This concept is designed to take innovation and sustainability in kids' corners to a whole new level. With Play@IKC, every corner becomes a canvas where imagination can soar, and every moment turns into an opportunity for exploration. This concept allows you to work with our designers to create a unique play environment tailored to your specific needs, capturing the essence of your brand while providing endless fun for children. Unleash Creativity with CustomisationAt IKC, we believe that every space is unique, and our play concepts reflect that. Play@IKC offers unparalleled customisation options, allowing you to design a play area that perfectly fits your space. Whether you're working with a small corner or a large open area, you can customise your Play@IKC with various sizes, shapes, and attached modules to create a truly unique play environment.Imagine a play space featuring wall games, varying panels (with windows or slats) and more—all designed to inspire creativity and foster endless hours of play. With Play@IKC, the possibilities are endless, and your play area can be as unique as you'd like!Why Choose Play@IKC?Play@IKC offers numerous benefits, transforming your space into an inviting and engaging destination for families. A well-designed play area enhances the overall customer experience, making your venue more attractive and welcoming. Custom designs incorporate your brand's elements, increasing visibility and recognition. Even with limited floor space, you can create a captivating and fun environment that children will love. This play concept caters to older kids, in addition to the younger ones, providing a safe yet adventurous space for exploration for all ages. This engaging setup encourages families to return, boosting customer loyalty and retention. As a result, Play@IKC installations can lead to higher revenues by enhancing the customer experience and encouraging repeat visits. Additionally, a unique, custom-designed play area sets you apart from competitors, making your space a preferred destination for families.With Play@IKC, the possibilities for creating a unique play environment are not only limitless, but above all safe and sustainable. Safety and quality are our top priorities when it comes to children's play. Our play concepts will therefore last for years. In addition, the concept consists entirely of certified wood, making a Play@IKC a sustainable choice for your company. We are delighted to introduce this innovative concept and look forward to working with you to design a Play@IKC play concept and integrate it into your organisation.  Discover the difference that Play@IKC can make and start designing your custom play area today. Contact us to bring your vision to life and create a lasting impact on your customers.Contact Us!

Nurturing Minds: The Power of Play

Everyday is a new opportunity for learning.At IKC, we prioritize staying informed to better serve our community.We recently came across an enlightening article by the American Academy of Pediatrics (please refer to link below), shedding light on the crucial role of fostering holistic child development.We are deeply committed to enhancing children’s learning experiences through purposeful play. Within this article there are numerous insights shared that resonate with our mission and call attention to the significance of integrating play into diverse environments.Our team specializes in designing and manufacturing innovative play structures and environments tailored to enrich children’s cognitive, social, and physical development. These structures are designed to seamlessly integrate within the spaces in your company, fostering an environment where children can learn and grow while blending harmoniously with your organization's aesthetics and functionality.  The article reinforces the notion that play is not merely a leisure activity, but a critical component of childhood that contributes to academic success, emotional intelligence, and social competence. By providing children with opportunities for unstructured, imaginative play, we empower them to explore their interests, develop resilience, and cultivate essential life skills.“Play is not just about having fun but about taking risks, experimenting, and testing boundaries.” - American Academy of PediatricsWith our play solutions, we aim to create inclusive, stimulating environments where children of all abilities can thrive. From interactive play panels to themed play zones, each of our concepts is meticulously crafted to integrate with its surroundings and enhance the experience of each family visiting your establishment.Take a moment to read this article and reflect on how the power of play can be a powerful tool for the development of young minds and enhance the overall satisfaction of every family visiting your establishment.Power of Play in Early Childhood Article  

Innovative Dutch company for Play Concepts, IKC Shines at NRF Retail's Big Show in America

The booth of the Dutch play concepts company, IKC, was a delightful out-of-the-box addition to the prestigious NRF Retail's Big Show in America. The event, held in bustling New York, brought together the world's most innovative companies in retail technology, and IKC stood out as a representative of creative and marketing-oriented solutions for youth within the retail sector. With a playful and interactive booth, IKC captured the attention of visitors, ranging from retailers to technological experts. The booth offered a glimpse into the custom play environments that IKC provides worldwide, emphasizing innovation, sustainability, and a strong focus on stimulating children's cognitive functions.   Notable highlights of the IKC booth included: 1.Sustainability and Environmental Awareness: The IKC booth emphasized the importance of sustainability in play environments. The company showcased its commitment to eco-friendly and sustainable materials, allowing parents and retailers to choose play concepts that are not only enjoyable but also good for the planet. 2.Collaborations with New Partners: During NRF Retail's Big Show, IKC collaborated with a promising new Mexican partner. This partnership will contribute to the further expansion of the IKC play concept in the United States and Mexico, providing more children with access to innovative play experiences. 3.IKC successfully conveyed the added value of a play concept in retail to many retailers. A children's corner in the store or showroom provides children with a safe place to play, discover, and learn. While children play, their parents can focus on the offerings or receive advice.   Visitor reactions to the booth were positive. One visitor exclaimed enthusiastically, "IKC uniquely combines fun and the development of cognitive functions. It's inspiring to see how children can play and develop endlessly in a safe environment. "With this successful participation in the NRF Retail's Big Show, IKC draws attention to itself as a market leader in innovative play concepts. The company continues to be dedicated to creating stimulating play concepts that promote children's development and serve as an excellent marketing tool for entrepreneurs. When children play, parents stay longer in the store, resulting in higher sales."

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