Amaya Papaya - Children's Play Lounge

The Amaya Papaya Play Zone @ the Zora Festival of the Arts and Humanities

2011-12-05T13:06:00.000-08:00

Amaya Papaya is sponsoring the PLAY ZONE for children 0-4 years old at the Zora Festival of the Arts and Humanities in Eatonville, FL, on Friday January 27, 2012 - Sunday January 29, 2012. The Zora Festival honors the life and achievements of Zora Neal Hurston, renowned 20th century writer, folklorist and anthologist. The Zora Festival is entering its 23nd year and the expected three-day attendance is 75,000 attendees. About forty percent of the visitors to the festival will come from outside the Orlando metro area.

This past January, Amaya Papaya - Play Lounge was honored to be one of the Zora Festival’s collaborative sponsors. As a sponsor, we provided the festival with it’s first Play Zone especially designed for kids 0-4 years old. We had the opportunity to meet a multitude children and families, serve our community by giving back and have tons of fun!! The Amaya Papaya- Play Zone was such a huge success that we have been asked to come back again next year!

I would like to invite you and your company to join Amaya Papaya for this awesome event by sponsoring an activity or an interactive booth for children and their families to play and explore. Your partnership would be an added bonus to the event and would provide great exposure for your business as well. The Amaya Papaya Play Zone will be located in the Hungerford Prepartory School gymnasium on Kennedy Blvd. The Amaya Papaya Play zone will be especially designed for kids 0-4 years old. The PLAY Zone will be divided into different stations for children to explore and play with their parents assistance.

I am requesting the assistance of local vendors and volunteers in the community to come out and be a part of this special event by volunteering your time at the various stations or for you to do a workshop, performance or interactive showcase at your own table provided by your business.
Examples of activities would be:
music performances(interactive musical performances with the kids)
entertainment (character greetings, magic shows, provide music, circle time leaders etc.)
craft/game tables
story time readers
mini workshops (computer, crafts, etiquette, etc.)

This festival is a great opportunity for your business or organization to give back to the community and market yourself as a community partner of an established event that has been happening in our backyard for 22 years! Your businesses is projected to be seen by 75,000 people over the 3 day event. You will have access to an audience of educated professionals who have an earned income of $50,000 or more; who are family-oriented and who are brand-loyal to ZORA! Festival sponsors.

If you would like to be a part of this opportunity by either volunteering at one of our play areas or by sponsoring your own play area/table please contact Yolonda at Amaya Papaya!

Thank you for your support of the Amaya Papaya Play Zone and the Zora Festival of the Arts and Humanities (ZORA! Festival)

Sincerely,

Yolonda Tyler
President - Amaya Papaya
Amaya Papaya - Play Zone

What is a Doula?

2011-11-14T11:09:00.000-08:00

Blog subject: The Importance of Doulas during pregnancy, labor and delivery, and post partum.
GUEST Blogger name: Stacy Back
GUEST BLOGGER Title: Birth and Post Partum Doula
Company website: www.back2basicsbirth.com

A doula, quite simply, is a labor support person. Typically, they are women who have given birth before (but not all) and want to be able to give support to the laboring woman prenatally, during labor and delivery, and post partum. In the Greek language, doula literally translates “female servant.” Women who desire a natural birth without medication typically hire doulas but many women who desire a medicated birth will hire a doula also.

There are birth Doulas who help the mother and father and even siblings prepare for the upcoming birth through education and preparation. The birth Doula typically provides this through a few prenatal visits and then will be in attendance during the labor and delivery. During labor a doula will support you by giving lots of verbal affirmations that you are doing a great job, remind you that you’ll soon be holding your baby, offer recommendations on positions to labor in, help your breathe appropriately through contractions, offer a massage, remind you to hydrate or eat if you are allowed food, walk with you, play music, dim the lights, etc.. There are so many different things a Doula can do for you during labor and the main thing they are focused on is you, as the laboring mother. After delivery your doula can help you initiate breastfeeding, stay with you until you are settled into your room, and just be there to help support you and share in the joy of your new baby. If a problem arises and the baby needs to be immediately transferred to the NICU and the father goes with the baby, your doula can stay with you so you are not alone. Typically, your Doula will stay with you 1-2 hours after delivery. Typically, a birth Doula will charge a flat rate which includes 1-2 prenatal visits, labor and delivery, and 1 post partum follow up visit. Many Doulas offer different packages so depending on what your needs are you may pay less or more.

A post partum Doula is someone who helps out once you are home with your new baby. She may help you when you breastfeed or bottle feed, do light housework, meal preparation and overall, support you as you embark on this journey with your new little one. If there is a sibling she may entertain him/her while you tend to the baby. Typically, a post partum Doula charges by the hour.

Overall, a Doula is a wonderful gift to the laboring and post partum woman and her family. Many times the Doula becomes like a close friend or family member. As a Doula I always see it as a privilege to attend a birth and to serve a family post partum. Birth is truly a miracle and to be a part of that is the best job in the world!

For more information please log onto our website @ www.back2basicsbirth.com

Hey Mom & Dad - Do you need a break?

2011-11-09T09:45:00.000-08:00

Blog subject: Loving Arms Nanny & Domestic Placement Agency expands to Central Florida
Guest Blogger name: Marcia Van de Kieft
Guest Blogger title: Loving Arms, LLC - Orlando Regional Manager

Loving Arms, Sarasota’s largest and most established Nanny and Domestic Placement Agency, announced their expansion to the Orlando area in January. Marcia Van de Kieft, Regional Manager of the Orlando area office, is the founder of the Central Florida Nannies group, 2010 Nannypalooza Orlando Conference Organizer and worked as a professional Nanny in the Central Florida area for over ten years.

“I’m thrilled to be able to bring this service to my community and to traveling families who visit the Orlando area," said Van de Kieft. “Loving Arms has a wonderful reputation, and I’m excited to represent an organization with such high standards.” The Orlando location provides Nanny and Housekeeper Placements, Babysitting Services for Central Florida families, Vacation Babysitting Services for area Hotels and Resorts, Corporate Back-up Babysitting and Wedding & Event Babysitting Services; to name a few.

The founder and owner of Loving Arms, Casey Smith, started the Agency in Sarasota in 2001 and has overseen tremendous growth in the past 10 years. “Since our expansion to Tampa in 2010, we have eagerly awaited our expansion to the Orlando area. My family and I travel to the area often, so I was elated to find such a knowledgeable, professional person like Marcia to lead our Orlando office.”

In January 2001, Marcia launched the Orlando office. She has been busy interviewing new sitters, nannies and housekeepers using the rigorous Loving Arms screening process. One of the many reasons Van de Kieft signed on with Loving Arms as area Regional Manager is because only about 10% of caregiver applicants make it through the extensive screening process, earning the company an impeccable reputation. The screening steps include a detailed application, in-person interview, reference checks, CPR training, and a criminal background check. “This ensures that families can feel safe and secure when they utilize the agency’s sitters, nannies, and household staff.” Says Van de Kieft, “We truly provide Loving Arms for every family.”

About Loving Arms, LLC
Loving Arms, LLC is the leading household staffing provider for selective families throughout Florida. Since it was founded in 2001, Loving Arms has been referring the highest quality nannies, sitters and household staff to area families. Only about 10% of applicants make it through a detailed application process, including an extensive in-person interview, reference checks, CPR training, a criminal background screening, and more.

For more information contact us at 407.490.4236 or visit our website at www.OurLovingArms.com.
Find us at www.Facebook.com/LovingArmsOrlando.

Baby Sign Laguage guest blog

2011-09-27T14:01:00.000-07:00

Little people love to play! And something they love just as much as playing is learning. At www.babysignlanguage.com, we know that signing for babies is a fun way to bond with baby, and we love to encourage parents and children to get playful in their teaching methods.

While diaper, eat and sleep are practical and useful signs, the sky’s the limit when it comes to finding fun and even silly words to sign and entertain your pre-verbal baby. From flash cards to a game of sign that vegetable in the produce section of the grocery store, learning to sign is a special and fun way for parents and caregivers to connect and communicate with children.

One of our favorite ways to incorporate play is by allowing toddlers to create their own songs with signs they have learned to master. Give it a try with your little one we are certain it will be a hit.

Babysignlanguage.com loves nurturing the desire to learn, and as you know, play is a great way to do so. In addition to the more traditional methods for teaching baby sign language such as flashcards, our website also features a baby signing video dictionary, and our facebook community and blog offers tons of suggestions on how to make signing for baby a family affair that is tons of fun!

All the tools you need to get started are online, FREE and more is added all the time. Come grow with us, learn with us and above all – have fun playing with your little one!

We are incredibly grateful to the www.amayapapaya.com family for giving us the opportunity to share a little about baby signing with you.

submited by:

Mey Lau
www.babysignlanguage.com

If you are interested in signing your child up for Baby Sign Language classes at Amaya Papaya we will be offering a new sign Language series at Amaya Papaya in January 2012.

The Class will be a 4 week session offered by Althea Maloy a certified Wee Hands sign language instructor. For more information and to sign up check out www.amayapapaya.com when you get there click on the classes and workshops page.

2011-05-15T11:34:00.000-07:00

I appreciate you reading my Blog and to say thank you you're the first to find out about the HOT DEAL coming up this week on Groupon!!

We will be offering *Single Play cards for $5 AND we will be offering **Summer Memberships for $45!!

*LIMIT 3 single play cards per family (normal price $10)

**LIMIT 1 Summer Membership per family BUT if you buy a membership on Groupon you can purchase another Summer Membership for $45 from Amaya Papaya directly! (normal price $95)

This is our last **HOT DEAL** for a while so be sure to get in on the fun!

Peace and Blessings
Yolonda

A dream come to life

2011-05-14T08:07:00.000-07:00

It's been over a year and a half since I opened Amaya Papaya in August of 2009 (and almost a year since I've written a blog post!). It has truly been a blessing watching your children grow up and getting to know you. People often ask me why I opened Amaya Papaya and how I came up with the concept. It was really a simple thought when I first envisioned this place back in 2007 when Amaya was only 1.

We would frequent the local parks, malls and other indoor play establishments and I thought, “HEY, there should be a place where I can take my 1 year old where she could play without having to worry about the outdoor elements, big kids playing in an area clearly marked for her or the distraction of video games or electronics.” I had been to other indoor play places and researched other infant/toddler and preschool friendly places in other areas but I could not find a place like this in my local area.

Back then, I was working as a counselor at an awesome school for girls where I would tell the girls to follow their dreams yet, here I was with the dream of opening an awesome family enrichment center and I was not acting on that dream. So began the exploration and planning of Amaya Papaya.

It was a long process of business planning and saving money but finally Amaya Papaya was born!

It has not been an easy road. Opening Amaya Papaya at the beginning of a recession was a great challenge. I have seen many business owners small and large close their doors. Here at Amaya Papaya we have been blessed to stay open in these unsteady, inconsistent times. Some months are harder than others but it is with your support that we continue to move forward.

Being a momma AND a momma entrepreneur is more difficult than people imagine. I often wonder if the time commitment that it takes to run a successful business is worth the strain that it puts on my family and body.

Over the past few months of thinking about and planning for the future of Amaya Papaya I have wondered about the necessity of a place such as this. In my opinion there are few places that cater to the 0-5yr age group and where parents can relax and know their children are safe. So though it may be tough at times I want to show my daughter that she can do ANYTHING she puts her mind too! Amaya Papaya is a dream come to life and I am proud to share it with all of you!

Peace and blessings

Yolonda

I have so much to say!!

2011-05-11T21:34:00.000-07:00

It's been a while....new blog post coming soon!

Spa night

2010-05-06T08:13:00.001-07:00

Herbal Preparations

2010-05-02T08:40:00.000-07:00

C is for Craft summer Workshops @ Amaya Papaya

2010-04-30T12:52:00.000-07:00

Impact Dance and Playdates

2010-04-29T10:13:00.000-07:00

Playing for a Emotionally Healthy child

2010-04-26T15:58:00.000-07:00

CPR CLASS!

2010-04-26T15:54:00.000-07:00

Herbalwise mini workshop

2010-04-06T04:14:00.000-07:00

Parent Resource Night

2010-04-06T03:21:00.000-07:00

Saturday OPEN PLAY DAYS!

2010-03-26T13:07:00.000-07:00

Friday Family Fun Nights!

2010-03-26T13:05:00.000-07:00

CPR CLASS!

2010-03-17T22:35:00.001-07:00

Mommy Makeovers! Moms Night Out!

2010-03-12T05:25:00.000-08:00

Children's Percussion Workshops 7pm- 8pm

2010-03-03T21:24:00.000-08:00

C is for Craft Workshop "B is for Butterfly Edition"

2010-02-28T11:42:00.000-08:00

IT's Pool Safety Time: Circle Time and Workshop

2010-02-23T17:30:00.000-08:00

Open Your Heart for Haiti

2010-02-16T15:32:00.000-08:00

Daddy and Me Fairytale Tea Party

2010-02-16T15:28:00.000-08:00

Valentines I LOVE U BASH!

2010-02-04T21:36:00.000-08:00

We will be here on March 6!

2010-02-04T21:04:00.000-08:00

C is for Craft Worksho M is for Monkey edition!

2010-02-04T20:59:00.000-08:00

I Love my Nanny Playdates! Every 4th Tuesday @ 10am

2010-02-04T20:55:00.000-08:00

MEMBERS CASTING CALL! FEB 19th

2010-02-04T20:52:00.000-08:00

Saturday Open Play Times!

2009-11-19T17:22:00.001-08:00

Come play at Amaya Papaya this Saturday 11/21/09 from 10am-2pm

Thank you local businesses!

2009-11-05T21:05:00.000-08:00

Belly Castings from Beautiful Beginnings- a $65.00 value

50% off session fee with Erika Hopkins Photography

Complimentary Session/ $300.00 portrait credit with Erika Hopkins Photography

Complimentary Session & 10% off with Erika Hopkins Photography

Gift Certificates good for $100.00 off first session with Imagine Tomorrow-computer classes for kids

Blanket from A Mother’s Gift

Complimentary Session with Andrea Richburg Photography

Gift certificate for $15.00 to Silly & Sweet baby boutique

Gift certificate for $50.00 to Winter Park Laser & Anti-Aging Medspa

Gift certificate for $75.00 to Winter Park Laser & Anti-Aging Medspa

Hair piece from Candyland Boutique

Gift certificate for $15.00 to Tastefully Simple- the food you love, the time you deserve

Halloween Bash- Additional Party added!

2009-10-11T22:23:00.000-07:00

RSVP TODAY! Due to the overwhelming response for our Healthy Halloween bash we have added an additional party!

Healthy Halloween Bash!

2009-10-11T22:18:00.000-07:00

This Event is now FULL, We have added a second Halloween party on Friday October 30th

Open This Saturday

2009-10-02T06:18:00.001-07:00

As a reminder Amaya Papaya will be open on tomorrow (SATURDAY 10/3) for open play from 10 a.m. - 2 p.m.

*Normally we are not open on Saturdays for open play however, since we have no parties booked we will be open. Take advantage of this special play time.

* FREE wi-fi is available.

Please be sure to come PLAY or LOUNGE!

2009-09-28T19:06:00.000-07:00

On the Move

2009-09-18T00:01:00.000-07:00

Daily Specials

Mellow Mondays - Wear an Amaya Papaya t-shirt or purchase and Amaya Papaya t-shirt and get in for 1/2 off!

Terrific Tuesdays - Happy Hour 5 p.m. - 6 p.m. all kids get in for 1/2 off!

Wiggly Wednesdays - Wear an Amaya Papaya t-shirt or purchase and Amaya Papaya t-shirt and get in for 1/2 off!

After School Thursdays - Treat the kids to a visit at Amaya Papaya for a job well done. All kids 1-5 get in for $7.99 between 3 p.m.- 6 p.m.

Fun Family Fridays - Pay regular price for the first child and each additional child in the same family gets in 1/2 off!

It has been over a month since we opened the doors to Amaya Papaya and I am very grateful for the community that has welcomed us with open arms. We have had over 1000 children visit the play lounge and I look forward to meeting even more children and there families in the near future. If you have not had the chance to come in to PLAY we are open Monday - Thursday 10 a.m. - 6 p.m. and on Friday from 11:30 a.m. -7 p.m. **We are open on Saturday's if we DO NOT have private parties or events booked.

****WE WILL BE OPEN THIS SATURDAY 9/19/09 FOR OPEN PLAY 1P.M. - 7 P.M*****

Not a Kids Gym

We have had many inquiries about the play lounge over the past month. With Amaya Papaya being a new concept in play places for the 5 and under crowd in central Florida we wanted to be sure that you could help us spread the word about OUR place and help the community understand just what going on here.

We are not a kids gym...we will leave that to the experts! We are a play lounge...simply put we are an OPEN PLAY indoor play space in which families can visit anytime during the day on there schedule without a reservation or membership. We are specifically for the little people 5 and under, which means you have no big kids running around and all of our toys are geared specifically for your infant, toddler and preschooler.
We have no video games or BIG play equipment that may be over stimulating for your child.

We do offer classes, however they are not those that you will find in your traditional enrichment class centers. We strive to offer classes that are unique and non-traditional. After much marketing, research, feedback and request(yes, we listen to YOU) we have decided to offer our classes on a drop in basis rather than committed scheduled classes until further notice. We have found that in a setting such as Amaya Papaya families need flexibility. Most of our classes will be offered on a drop in when you would like basis and will allow families to not feel the pressure of having to commit to a weekly session if they are not able to attend or need a break.

Our parties are fantastic, just ask our most recent party families. Our parties allow your little ones to have FUN in an unstructured environment. We can facilitate an activity if you wanted one... but we are sure that your party goers will be fully entertained during the entire party in our 7 themed play areas! Our parties range from doing it all your self, doing a little bit with our help or you simply doing nothing but showing up to party and letting us take care of all the details for you!

Grand Opening

Our grand opening was GREAT! We had over 300 people show up! It was so nice to be able to share Amaya Papaya with all of you. After months of preparation we finally got to have the PARTY that we had been dreaming of for 2 years! Amaya had a great time in her custom made tutu and headband. Thomas and I were amazed by all of the wonderful people that we met!

We would especially like to thank all of the LOCAL vendors that contributed to our giveaways and would like to congratulate the families that won prizes!

$25 Gift Certificate from Once Upon a Child
Laura W.

$25 Gift Certificate from Discovery Toys
Jodi R.

A Halloween Tutu made by Doodle and Goo:
Amy C.

Complimentary Session from Andrea Richburg Photography:
Jen M.

25% Off Gift Certificate from Andrea Richburg Photography:
Toshiko G.

50% Off Gift Certificate from Andrea Richburg
Melissa B.

Estate Planning Package from Murphy & Co.
Mandy P.

Complimentary Session Erick Hopkins:
Elizabeth O.

50% Off Portrait Session Erick Hopkins:
Lee-Ann H.

Free Amaya Papaya T-shirt:
Troy G.

Your Office Away from Home

Are you in search of a place where you can get some work done while your kids are entertained? Well look no further....Amaya Papaya is the perfect place for work from home parents, college students with young children or someone with a young child that simply wants to surf the web or read a book for a few moments. We have FREE wi-fi and plenty of toys to keep your child entertained while you work. Stop by your local coffee shop, bring the kids a snack and come prepared to get some work done. * ask for the wi-fi access code at the front desk.

Remember the importance of Play,

Yolonda,
Amaya's mom

Grand Opening Celebration Schedule

2009-09-02T20:40:00.000-07:00

Grand Opening Celebration Schedule

Come enjoy our Grand Opening Celebration Saturday between:
11 a.m. and 4 p.m.

Enjoy OPEN PLAY all day, Preview party decorations by Magical Party, Enter to win prizes and sample the following 5-10 minute demo classes:

11:15 a.m.- Belly Button Yoga- Bouncing Buttons/ Busy Buttons Yoga Combination class

12:00 p.m. - Belly Button Yoga- Bouncing Buttons/ Busy Buttons Yoga Combination class

1:00 p.m.- Beautiful Birthings - Choosing Your Birth Team mini seminar

1:15 to 1:45 - Beautiful Birthings - ASK THE DOULA - Q & A session

1:45 p.m. - Beautiful Birthings - Choosing Your Birth Team mini seminar

2:00 p.m.- Circle Time class

2:45 p.m. Circle Time class

3:00 p.m. - Giving World Percussion - Kids Percussion Play

3:45 p.m.- Giving World Percussion - Kids Percussion Play

*Schedule subject to change

During our Grand Opening Celebration you can.........

Pre-Register for Classes
Pre-book Birthday Parties
Purchase multi Play Cards - (breaks down to only 8.00 per visit)
Purchase memberships - (breaks down to only 14.58 per month)

Grand Opening Celebration Specials

Take 25% off all Amaya Papaya T-Shirts
(All kids wearing an Amaya Papaya shirt on Monday and Wednesday afternoons get in for half off starting this month)

Take 10% off all Melissa and Doug toys

Free Snacks for Children

THIS IS A FREE EVENT!

2009-08-31T20:00:00.000-07:00

Psssst are you ready? I am so thrilled to announce that our GRAND OPENING CELEBRATION will be held on this Saturday September 5, 2009 from 11 a.m until 4 p.m.

As my way to say THANK YOU to all of the families that have come to PLAY at Amaya Papaya during our soft opening this month, admission will be FREE all day... that's right FREE!

During the CELEBRATION your familiy will be able to see amazing party decorations provided by Magical Party, sample mini demo classes that will be offered this fall, sign up for fall classes, enter to win prizes provided by LOCAL businesses, take advantage of merchandise discounts, membership specials, punch card specials and if that's not enough..... PLAY with our amazing toys!

Giving Back
We will also begin collecting donations for our first selected charity, PACE Center for Girls a LOCAL school for teenage girls.
Their wish list includes:
Khaki Pants (all sizes, new or used)
Polo uniform shirts (all sizes, new or used)
Canned goods or non perisheable foods
Gift cards
Toiletries
School supplies

If you are able to give please be sure to bring your donations in anytime during the month of September.

Amaya Papaya University
Fall classes at Amaya Papaya will be starting soon. We have an amazing line up of teachers that are ready to have fun teaching your children through... what else at Amaya Papaya but PLAY!

Our classes this fall include:

Monday -Circle Time w/ Mrs. Myra
Monday - Pregnacy, Labor and Beyond w/ Terri of Beautiful Birthings
Tuesday - Kids Percussion Play w/ Mr. Jason
Tuesday - Drum Fara (Drum Happy) w/ Jason of Giving World Percussion
Wednesday - Tots and Crafts with Mrs Tracee
Friday - Bouncing Buttons/Busy Buttons Yoga class w/ Mrs. Laurie of Belly Button Yoga

Sign Language -Tentative/TBA

Please check out our Website (LEARN) for more information.

Starting next week we will begin our fall daily specials. Please check our website, blog, facebook page or twitter for more information next week.

If you have not already done so, please check out our review in the Orlando Sentinel

Remeber the Importance of Play,

Yolonda,
Amaya's Mom

20 Things That Make Amaya Papaya Great!

2009-08-23T20:11:00.001-07:00

1.) Open Play all day, no reservation required

2.) You can bring in outside food

3.) Unlimited play all day

4.) You can leave and come back in the same day without paying a re-entry fee

5.) two adults are FREE with each child admission

6.) We REALLY have age appropriate toys and equipment for infants, toddlers and preschoolers. (our toys are kid powered!)

7.) You can have food delivered in from Pizza Hut and Quiznos.

8.) Your children are learning through play and socializing with other children.

9.) We have FREE wi-fi.

10.) We sell heathly snacks and beverages (starting on 8/27)

11.) You can actually relax while your children are playing.

12.) You don't have to clean up

13.) We offer unique classes for YOU and your child(ren) (starting in September)

14.) We are breastfeeding friendly

15.) We were created by a Mom and Dad

16.) We have AWESOME birthday parties! (that are not over stimulating for little ones)

17.) We seek to better the community

18.) You get to actually have a complete conversation with another adult.

19.)We have great a MARKETPLACE with quality toys, awesome parent made/inspired merchandise and super cute Amaya Papaya t-shirts!

20.) YOUR TURN TO SHARE!

Storytime!

2009-08-18T23:17:00.000-07:00

Come to storytime at Amaya Papaya tomorrow at 4:30. We have an awesome storytime mommy volunteer that has signed up to be our reader for the evening.

More hours to PLAY!

2009-08-09T19:33:00.000-07:00

Starting on Monday (8/10), Amaya Papaya will be open during normal business hours.

Monday-Thursday 10 a.m. - 6 p.m.
Friday 11:30 a.m. - 7 p.m.
Saturday-closed for private parties (open if no parties are booked)
Sunday- closed for private parties

Please be sure to check our calendar for schedules, play dates, parties, special Saturday hours and other COOL events!

* Please note - When Play Dates are booked, we may have a high volume of guests

Grand Opening celebration information coming soon!

Remember the importance of PLAY,

Yolonda
Amaya's Mom

Open on Saturday 8/8

2009-08-07T19:23:00.001-07:00

I want to thank everyone that has come to play at Amaya Papaya this week. I am thrilled that so many of you have chosen to spend your time at our place. I am excited about the upcoming birthday parties and playgroups that we have scheduled and look forward to seeing your children exploring all of the areas in the play lounge.

As a reminder Amaya Papaya will be open on tomorrow (SATURDAY) for open play from 11 a.m. - 4 p.m.

*Normally we are not open on Saturdays for open play however, since we have no parties booked we will be open. Take advantage of this special play time.

* FREE wi-fi is available.

Please be sure to come PLAY or LOUNGE!

Yolonda
Amaya's mom

AMAYA PAPAYA IS OPEN!

2009-08-03T22:10:00.000-07:00

Are you and your little one ready to PLAY? I hope so because we are OPENING TODAY (Tuesday August 4th)!

New Phone Number - (407) 339-PLAY

Soft Opening Hours 8/4/09 - 8/8/09
Monday 1 p.m - 6 p.m
Tuesday 1 p.m - 6 p.m
Wednesday 1 p.m - 6 p.m
Thursday 1 p.m - 6 p.m
Friday 1 p.m. - 7 p.m.
Saturday 11 a.m. - 4 p.m. We have no parties booked so we will be OPEN!

Thank you for being patient while we have prepared to open the doors of our beautiful facility. We are very excited to share our space with you and your little one(s). We have been working around the clock to get open and to create a space that I and hopefully you feel comfortable bringing your child to. I look forward to watching you create new memories with your child(ren) at Amaya Papaya!

Amaya and I cannot wait to meet you!

Remember the importance of PLAY,

Yolonda
Amaya's Mom

Fruits of the Labor..

2009-08-02T11:47:00.000-07:00

Things are taking a little longer than we anticipated but the finishline is quickly approaching! If you've ever had to assemble toys on Christmas Eve then you can appreciate all the time that goes into the entire preparation process. We're tightening all screws and disinfecting all surfaces. Our goal is to not only provide a kid friendly environment, but a clean one as well. A message will be forth coming on Monday with all the exciting details of our opening on Tuesday. I appreciate your patience throughout this lengthy process. We'll have a soft opening for the first month and a full grand opening celebration in the following weeks. I look forward to meeting your families.

For the most up to date information and insider views of the space

Become a Fan on Facebook

Follow me on Twitter

Remember the importance of play,

Yolonda
Amaya's Mom

Labor of Love!

2009-07-31T23:08:00.001-07:00

I am very happy to inform you that Amaya Papaya will be opening on this coming Monday or Tuesday. During our first month of operation we will be doing what is called a soft opening followed by a grand opening celebration in a few weeks. I hope that you have enjoyed watching the BIRTH of Amaya Papaya over the last few months and that you are as excited as I am to have a new play space in our community. Please be sure to tell all of your friends about Amaya Papaya. I look forward to meeting all of you and having your family join my family to play at Amaya Papaya!

So Close

2009-07-19T13:09:00.000-07:00

When are you opening? I can't tell you how many times I've heard this over the past 4 months. I am happy to say that we are so close. We finally got our permit and we are now nearing the end of this building process by getting our inspections completed. At this time I (and hopefully a small army of people) plan to be in the space this weekend or sooner putting together toys, fixtures and furniture. If all goes well we will be open by next week!

Please begin to check our calendar often as I will begin adding story times, classes, mom's/dad's group bookings, birthday party bookings and other special events. My hope is that Amaya Papaya will become a part of your weekly life. I look forward to seeing our children grow and develop together; and seeing us evolve as even better parents by connecting with our children through play and by socializing with other parents.

If you have not already done so, please check out ads for Amaya Papaya in:

Playground magazine

Orlando Kids Directory

Thus far opening a business as a mommaprenuer has proven to be both rewarding and a great challenge. I can't say enough about all of the great people I have met or maintained relationships with over the past 2 years. All of you have been a great blessing thus far. I truly appreciate your encouragement, support and advice. As for the challenges, they have provided for great learning experiences and tremendous growth. I feel stronger and even more confident that Amaya Papaya will be a great addition to Seminole county and the surrounding community.

Become a Fan on Facebook
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Remember the importance of play,

Yolonda
Amaya's mom

Build Out, Build Out, Build Out- The Adventure

2009-06-20T18:33:00.001-07:00

Due to construction and permitting setbacks out of my control, the opening of Amaya Papaya has been delayed again. I have now set a new tentative of early July for our opening. If we are able to open before, I will be sure to let you know. Please be patient and keep sending your positive thoughts for an expedited process.

I continue getting a great response from parents wanting to know more about Amaya Papaya. I am very excited about all of the inquiries and hope that you continue to be excited about Amaya Papaya! Thank You!

Not a Boutique
At Amaya Papaya we will feature a shopping area that we will call "The Marketplace @ Amaya Papaya". In this space you will be able to purchase toys, snacks, beverages and other merchandise created and/or approved by parents. Over the past few months I have selected merchandise and met with some AMAZING local mompreneurs who's merchandise will be featured in the Market Place.

Check out some of the items and/or brands that we will feature:
Melissa and Doug
A Mothers Gift - Blanket Company
Doodle and Goo
Boogie Wipes
Hot Green Momma
Sakile'
Amaya Papaya
and many more to come......

Social Media
Now days social media is such a great way to stay connected, after resisting the social media pull for so long I finally got connected and its been great. I have found that I feel more connected with my community, I have support from other parents, I stay in touch with new and old friends and I am able to share up to date information about my personal and business life with colleagues, customers, friends and family.

Check out this article that I found about a fathers experience with social media:
http://remarkableparents.com/how-using-social-media-has-helped-me-be-a-better-dad/

Are you connected?
Become a Fan on Facebook
Follow me on Twitter

Stay connected and Remember the Importance of Play,

Yolonda
Amaya's Mom

Some More Toys!

2009-06-07T16:34:00.000-07:00

Even More Toys!

2009-06-07T16:27:00.000-07:00

More Toys!

2009-06-07T16:24:00.000-07:00

Toys!

2009-06-07T16:20:00.000-07:00

The Possibilities and Anticipation

2009-05-24T09:31:00.001-07:00

Every time Amaya and I visit Amaya Papaya she ask if we are bringing the toys over and if the kids are coming today. I gently remind her that Mr. Scott (our contractor; All Phase Construction) and his guys have to finish the build out before we can invite people in to play. She is very excited about all the possibilities that await her with the opening of Amaya Papaya.

Due to build out delays, our opening has been pushed back. I have now set a tentative grand opening for June 27, 2009. In the event that we are able to open before, I will keep you posted with the new date.

I am very thankful for all of your inquiries and well wishes about Amaya Papaya. It really helps me to know that there is a need for a place like this in our community. I will do my best to make sure that Amaya Papaya is a place that you will want to visit often and experience genuine organic experiences with your child.

Many of you have asked about ways that you can be involved with the evolution of Amaya Papaya. There are so many things to be done. If you would like to be involved in one of the following ways please contact me:

Like new Costume Exchange- do you have a dress up costume that your little one has not used since forever ago? We will give you 1 free admission coupon for each gently used costume that we are able to use. (we need 10 costumes)

Storytime reader- volunteer to read a book during our weekly story time. Time TBA.

Store setup- Are you good at putting furniture together? We will be setting up soon and would love to have a few people help.

Tell us about it! - Know of a cool item we should sell at Amaya Papaya?
Know of a cool program we should offer at Amaya Papaya?

Remember to PLAY!

Yolonda
Amaya's momfk

What does that mean?

2009-05-04T19:09:00.000-07:00

As we take time to reflect on the importance of Mothering I would like to share with you my inspiration for the Amaya Papaya name and logo. AMAYA PAPAYA is a TERM OF ENDEARMENT FOR MY DEAREST DAUGHTER (and best business partner ever) Amaya, whom just happens to be so Fabulous and we LOVE her.

When I was pregnant with Amaya I dreaded the thought of getting STRETCH MARKS!! It was not until 2 days before I gave birth that the first stretch mark appeared, from that moment on they spread like wild fire! I was devastated (or so I thought, vain I know).

Once Amaya was born my favorite song to sing to her was MY GIRL by the Temptations. The first line was so true..."I got SUNSHINE on a cloudy day".... Amaya was truly my SUNSHINE in the mist of anything that I was going through as a new mom.

When Amaya began to speak she would ask me about the boo boo's on my belly. I would tell her that they where not boo boo's at all. I began telling her that the stretch marks where SUN RAYS that I was blessed with when she was inside my belly.

As I began to think of a logo for Amaya Papaya I thought that nothing would be more fitting than the SUNSHINE to represent Amaya and every other child that a parent has been blessed with.

Ask Amaya....she will tell you how she put the SUNSHINE on mommy's belly!

HAPPY MOTHERS DAY!

We Have Color!

2009-04-24T22:04:00.000-07:00

Spring has Sprung

2009-04-05T16:30:00.000-07:00

So much has happen in last last month I can hardly contain myself!

We finally got the funding to begin the process of getting Amaya Papaya open. I received the keys for the space and put the logo/coming soon banners in the window. I am currently awaiting approval from the "powers that be" to begin the build out and then major movement will begin to take place in the space. After the said approvals happen I can begin planning our Grand Opening, which I hope to announce in the upcoming weeks. This dream to to open a place where parents can play with their little ones in a safe, age appropriate environment is becoming a reality. I could not be happier to share this experience and my enthusiasm with you. I look forward to seeing our kids playing and learning together.

While doing some research this week I came across this article titled "The Serious Need for Play". As a counselor and especially a mom this validates my belief about the importance of play for everyone especially our children. Check out the article by clicking the link below.

http://www.sciam.com/article.cfm?id=the-serious-need-for-play

If you have not become a fan on our Facebook page or a follower of our tweets on Twitter go to our website and join today!

Our new space

Peace and Blessings,

Yolonda
Amaya's Mom

The evolution of a new movement

2009-03-10T06:40:00.000-07:00

It has been such a humbling journey creating and preparing for the opening of Amaya Papaya. I am delighted about the community forming around me and know that we are creating a space that will benefit all of us. I would like to thank everyone that has signed up to be on our contact list, spread the word about Amaya Papaya or provided support in some way to this project thus far.

At this time we have secured a space in the Casselberry Collection Plaza on Highway17-92(near Publix). It is a 2300 square foot space that is sure to be filled with positive energy and love. We are working with a local bank and we are now in the waiting stage to access the funds to finance the project.

Unfortunately due to the situation with the banks nationally, we have been delayed in beginning the build out process. Rest assured we will begin soon! We are working with a builder who has created plans for the space (I will upload the plans soon). We also have a complete list of equipment and toys waiting to be ordered or stored away waiting to be placed in the space as soon as the build out is complete.

I have met and talked to some awesome people over the past year that want to provide workshops, classes, retail items and other exciting services and/or products at Amaya Papaya. The services and/or products planned promise to be informative, eclectic,entertaining, beneficial and uplifting.

If you would like more information or want to be a part of the Amaya Papaya movement in some way, please log onto the website, sign up to be on the contact list or email me for more information.

Peace and Harmony

Yolonda,
Amaya's Mom

New Website

2009-02-15T20:51:00.000-08:00

I would like to announce the launch of the Amaya Papaya website.

The official address for the website is www.amayapapaya.com

The website is designed to provide you with information about Amaya Papaya and activities that will be scheduled at the facility.

Please continue checking our blog for monthly updates, there is a link to the blog on the site.

We have a building and we are now in the process of planning for our build-out. I will send an update in a few weeks when build-out begins.

What's going on with Amaya Papaya

2008-12-08T06:46:00.001-08:00

Hello my fellow Amaya Papaya supporters,

I am sorry that we have been out of touch over the last month and a half. It has been such a busy month with the Holidays, Amaya's Birthday coming soon and planning for Amaya Papaya. I am currently searching for a new building for Amaya Papaya. Hopefully we will secure a building in the Casselberry area soon. I am working with a pair of brokers who thus far are doing a wonderful job at providing me with information about buildings in the area. We have been successful in narrowing down the search to 3 spaces that I like a lot. Hopefully this week we can begin the process of securing the lease and preparing to make plans to open Amaya Papaya. I am so grateful thus far that I have made connections with so many people throughout this process and hope to continue meeting new and exciting people that are as excited about Amaya Papaya as I am.

If you are interested or know someone who would be intersted in teaching a class or volunteering to read during storytime please leave a comment or email me so we can talk soon.

Please continue to spread the word about Amaya Papaya "where kids play and parents lounge".

Peace and Blessings
Yolonda

Party

2008-10-27T18:51:00.000-07:00

Amaya Papaya will be designed to fulfill a child’s dream celebration! Guest will have access to the “Play Lounge” and be able to enjoy a private or semi-private celebration. Amaya Papaya will be available to be rented for private use after hours or on Saturdays and Sundays. Amaya Papaya will also be a great space for baby showers, clubs, churches, organizations and businesses looking for a unique party space.

Amaya Papaya will provide a variety of party packages to meet your needs.

Party packages CAN consist of:

2 Hour Private Party or 1.5 hour semi-private party
1 Party Coordinator
1 Free Visit pass to Amaya Papaya for Party Child
Decorations ( birthday banner, plastic table cloth, balloons - optional)
Amaya Papaya branded paper Invitations or *Eco-friendly electronic Invitations
Generic solid color paper products or themed paper products (napkins, cake plates and utensils)
*Eco-friendly party favors/goody bags
Amaya Papaya branded paper Thank You cards or *Eco-friendly Electronic Thank You notes
Juice or water for children
Activity

Add ons - Amaya Papaya will partner with local vendors to offer:
Pizza
DJ services
Photography services

Party Times
Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday
(TBA)

Saturday
10am-12pm, 1pm-3pm, 4 pm-6 pm

Sunday
10am-12pm, 1pm-3pm, 4 pm-6 pm

The LOGO!

2008-09-20T22:54:00.000-07:00

Katie's Faves

2008-09-20T22:19:00.000-07:00

While attending the Kids Expo in Orlando this past summer I met Katie's mom Jen. I soon discovered that she was not only Katie's mom but a mom entrepreneur as well. She owns a really cool online kids retail business called Katie's Faves! After talking with her for a while that day, countless emails and phone calls later we have decided to partnered to provide Amaya Papaya customers with Katie's Faves.

Jen ......AND KATIE have traveled the US and scoured the Internet to search for earth friendly, USA made, parent created products thus providing you and I a great collection of items that kids want to have and parents want to buy!

Amaya Papaya will carry and/or have samples of items featured on the Katie's Faves website for you to purchase or custom order!

Until we are open please log onto Katie's Faves to see what the buzz is all about. While your their send, Jen a message to let her know that you heard about Katie's Faves on our blog or better yet purchase a FAVE!

www.katiesfaves.com

Learn

2008-09-01T20:31:00.000-07:00

Amaya Papaya will offer eclectic classes and activities for children and parents to learn, grow and create community. These classes will be taught by qualified instructors and will offer families unique experiences to stimulate creativity, awareness and fun. Classes include, but are not limited to:
Play dough
Intro to sports
Parent and me yoga
Music exploration
Arts and crafts
Miniature cooking
Conscious Parenting
Conscious Grand-Parenting
Pre - Birth classes

If you are interest in teaching a class at Amaya Papaya please contact me.

If you have class idea please contact me.

Mission and Promise

2008-09-01T20:27:00.000-07:00

Mission:
To provide children ages 0-5, and their parents a unique experience that will foster a sense of community, inspire family togetherness, social interaction, cognitive development and creativity.

Our promise:
Nurture the spirit of a healthy family
Create an imaginative play environment
Serve wholesome snacks, sell imaginative toys and have memorable celebrations
Be committed to children's social and cognitive development
Embrace change and be committed to growth
Only hire people who love children
Work with local vendors and organizations wherever possible
Be inclusive and welcoming to all families
Be earth friendly

The Play Lounge

2008-08-26T20:53:00.000-07:00

The “Play Lounge” will be the focus of the facility. Parents and their children will be welcomed into a shoe free environment that will allow children to learn, explore and have fun as they crawl, walk and run their way through our facility. Each play area will feature age appropriate toys that are safe and checked periodically to ensure no child safety recalls.

Themed play areas:

Market and Café- grocery store stocked with play food and shopping carts, toddler sized kitchen stocked with food, a table and house keeping items

Theatre-stage, dress up costumes, microphones and puppet theatre

Builders’ Square -large blocks

Library- Giant chalk Board, books, puzzles

Playground- wooden indoor play structure that includes a rock climbing wall, slide and ball pit

Discover zone- Running water table and sand box

Baby/Toddler Zone- Soft contained play structures and other age appropriate toys

Arts Studio- Tables and chairs, Daily craft projects, crayons, paper, ect

I need Money

2008-07-30T10:19:00.000-07:00

We are currenty in the process of attempting to secure funds to start Amaya Papaya

What is Amaya Papaya?

2008-07-07T19:21:00.000-07:00

Amaya Papaya is an indoor playground in which parents can bring their children ages 0-5 to play while they relax and have a cup of Tea or they can join in with their children and experience the fun of creative play. The main focus of Amaya Papaya will be the indoor Play Lounge, however we will offer a variety of services all in one convenient place.

Learn- children's creative play classes and conscious parenting classes

Party - Birthday parties and special events

Shop - a small boutique/co-op- featuring unique children's toys, clothing, and items created by other parents

Eat- a small snack bar that will feature Sangoma brand Tea's and other healthy/organic snacks.

and of course

Play- the Play Lounge