We were recently invited to attend a “Sensory Morning” with Anxious the Elephant at Haven Holidays, Kiln Park. We were excited to go as we have enjoyed Haven Holidays in the past with the kids. I also have fond memories of Kiln Park as I worked there when I was “not so sweet” sixteen many years ago. I’ve also spent many happy memories holidaying there in our family- tourer caravan when I was much younger.
As I drove into the familiar park so many memories came flooding back. There was a little confusion as my name had not been passed on to the security guard at the main gate, so it took a lot longer to get into the park than planned. However I appreciate the fact that there is security at the park and it is reassuring to know that they won’t just let anybody in.
This misunderstanding meant that we only caught the end of Anxious the Elephant’s Sensory Session which was a shame. However, Izzy was excited (and a little bit nervous) to see one of her favourite Haven Characters again. We love Anxious as she is kind and sweet and always tries to put the nervous children at ease as she understands what it is like to feel anxious too.
There were lots of sensory toys set out on the stage and on the dance floor for the under 5’s to play with. I’m sure that if Isabelle had been there for the session from the beginning circle time and the “Hello” welcome song then she would have really enjoyed this session. As it was, we had to just try and get stuck in there so she was a bit overwhelmed by it all.
The sensory mornings are designed to delight your child’s senses, such as hearing, smell, sight, touch and taste. Different stations are set up for the kids to move around and explore them in their own time.
There were four stations set up, including, “Touch and Feel”, “Visual”, “Tactile Play” and “”Messy Play”. Izzy usually loves messy play but during this session she stuck to tactile play with the pom-poms and visual play chasing bubbles (always good fun).
We then cuddled up and danced to Anxious’ “Goodbye Song” and waved Anxious Elephant goodbye.
This Summer, Infacare (makers of ultra-mild bubble bath) teamed up with Haven to provide families with under 5’s (who booked holidays before 13th July) a free Infacare gift for their little ones. Families were also able to pick up these samples at the Anxious Sensory mornings.
This video shows more of what little ones can do at the Sensory Mornings:
When the sensory session was over, it was time for craft sessions for the older kids Our kids were a bit hungry and restless though so we had a cookie at Millie’s Cookies and let them play in the Soft Play. This was pretty surreal for me as it was situated in the old Burger King unit where I used to work.
Dave and I enjoyed a coffee break while the kids played within sight.
We then went to explore the arcade and rides.
This Sooty machine brought back memories for me too!
There is a mini bowling section in the arcade that we like to play when on holiday.
The girls loved their prizes!
We won lots of tokens and cashed them in the special machine. The girls had enough points for a couple of packs of sweets so they were delighted (it’s the small things!).
When we left the indoor entertainment complex, we were pleased to see that the rain had stopped. I know as holiday makers we were always grateful for the complex during the rainy days. There is something to do whatever the weather. There is also a pool, bar and restaurant to keep holiday makers entertained. The kids love the night time entertainment and it’s great fun dancing with them and the Fun Stars.
We played in the outdoor park.
We also wanted to explore the old kilns, which, of course, give Kiln Park it’s name.
We also loved this Tipi we saw. I have since found out that Kiln Park now offer glamping in brand new safari tents and I would love to stay in one of these in the future as an alternative to in our own tent or in a caravan. They look such fun!
At Kiln Park, they also have an outdoor pool with a fun slide. The changing rooms are painted like traditional beach huts which look great (you can see them in the background of the top photo).
There is also a sports field and lots of outdoor activities available such as tennis and archery.
We love the short walk (past a golf course) from Kiln Park to the beach. On hot sunny days, the sandy walk reminds me of campsites in France. If you own a boat, they offer boat storage and launching services for small to midsized vessels.
We look forward to our next longer stay at Kiln Park, Haven Holidays!
Thank you to Haven Holidays and Infacare.
