a note from jess:
Happy New Year! This email is coming a little later than I’d planned…mostly because I needed time to figure out how to share this update in a way that felt honest and right. I’ve written and rewritten it more times than I care to admit.
 
Last year was a tough one. The kind that asked hard questions and required a lot of faith. I had many conversations with you all about what the future of Giggles might look like. Every single one ended the same way:
“You can't close or sell. This space matters.”
 
I heard you. I held onto that. And, we found a way forward—one that allows us to keep going with care and intention.
 
I recently accepted another role and started last week, which means I’m not at Giggles during weekdays the way I used to be. That’s been an adjustment, because being in the space with you and your littles has always been one of my favorite parts of opening Giggles.
 
But, don't worry. I’ll still be here on certain afternoons, on the weekends, and behind the scenes every single day making sure the space is cared for and ready for you. 
 
Everything you’ll read below is part of thoughtful changes meant to keep Giggles steady, welcoming, and rooted in the care and intention that brought us here.
 
Image item
good news
a new way to enter
Image item
We were closed last Friday for a big reason: we installed a secure door entry system and cameras. This new setup helps streamline arrival and support more flexible hours, while keeping the space secure and thoughtfully run.
 
Note: Open play is now accessed through secure door entry after booking, but our booking process remains the same!
 
booking required
Moving forward, all open play visits must be booked and paid for online. Coming last-minute? You can still book on your phone at the door! Instructions will be posted.
 
This change helps us manage capacity, support different staffing needs, and keep entry smooth for everyone.
 
more hours
One of the biggest benefits of this new system is that we’ll be able to bring back weekend open play when we don’t have parties scheduled — something many of you have been asking for!
 
a growing team
You’ll start seeing play hosts in the space a few mornings each week. There may also be times when there isn’t an on-site host. Open play remains grown-up supervised, and systems are in place to support this model.
 
I want to give a quick shout-out to Melody and Margaret, who have already been holding the fort down this past week with so much care — alongside their littles, Ezra and Zinnia. I’m really grateful to have them as part of the Giggles team!
 
members 💛
One of the biggest benefits of this new system is more consistent access for our members! Members, please keep an eye out for an email following this one with instructions for a streamlined way to access the space.
 
Member hours will now begin at 8am! If you’ve been considering membership or want a closer look at what’s included, now is a great time to join.
 
Image item
what's happening?
little notes
every friday — 930am
CLASS REQUIRES ADVANCE BOOKING + PAYMENT
Image item
Forty five minutes of music and movement led by Miss Ayana from Jamberry! We start with a hello song and work our way through finger plays, props (shakers, scarves, rhythm sticks, and more), dancing, and even a story! Class includes open play for the day. Bonus: Arrive up to 30 minutes early to enjoy playtime before class.
 
storytime with
secret world books
wednesday, january 21 — 930am
Settle in for a sweet morning of stories every third Wednesday carefully chosen and read aloud by our friends at Secret World Books. Each storytime features beautifully written and illustrated titles your littles will love—and grown-ups can shop them afterwards for 20% off.

Included with open play (FREE for members!).
 
Image item
talking it over
questions?
If you have questions about booking or need help navigating the new flow, feel free to email. You can also reach me by phone at Giggles after 4pm this week (Monday–Friday).

📞 847-748-8621
💌 jess@gigglesplay.com

Thank you all for your patience and understanding as we work through this together and continue refining how Giggles runs day-to-day.
 
Image item
Visit our Facebook
Visit our Instagram
Visit our Website
328 Green Bay Road
Highwood, Illinois 60040, United States