Find answers to frequently asked questions about parties and play groups at Whirlygig.
Accessibility
Our goal is to accommodate the needs of everyone who would like to visit us. The entrance is wheelchair accessible and our bathrooms, play area, and rooms are all ADA compliant. We regret some areas or play structures in the building may not be accessible to every guest. Feel free to contact us in advance of your visit if you have questions or if you’d like our staff to be aware of any specific needs.
Drop in Open Play
We do not offer drop in open play any longer, except for special events which are listed here. Prior signup is needed for classes (you can always call if you want to test one out or just come to one). Prior reservations are recommended to ensure we aren’t at capacity.
Layout of Spaces
adult RESPONSIBILITY
Playtime: You are responsible for your child at all times. Keep an eye on your child and be aware if they need a break or help navigating a challenge. Parents of toddlers attending classes must remain on premises. Staff is onsite in play areas to assist. We ask that you are also available to your child.
All Ages: Whirlygig offers classes and services for children ages eight weeks through eight years. We pride ourselves in providing a space that appeals to a wide range of developmental stages and do not exclude children based on age. We ask, however, that caregivers of older children monitor them closely and always consider the safety and well-being of the smallest and youngest members of our community.
Waivers: A responsible adult must accompany each child and must sign a waiver for each child under 18 entering the Whirlygig facility. No exceptions. Whirlygig has the right to refuse entry if one of your guests does not sign a waiver. Children may be dropped off at private parties if the waiver is signed and host parent is aware they are responsible for the child. A photo ID must be shown for pickup.
event times
Each event is two hours. If you would like to extend the time we can extend the first party of the day or the last party of the day only when available.
food + drink
You are welcome to bring in your own food during your private event for no additional fees. We do ask that it be condensed down to 3 platters or be pre-approved when booking final details. If you do end up bringing more and it is not approved we will be able to charge a $100 cleanup fee.
You are welcome to bring your own cake or cupcakes, they must be frosted ready to serve. We are also happy to arrange for a cake to be provided.
We also offer Rosies NY Pizza, Indian Catering and Tasty Dreams Custom Cakes and Cupcakes. Information and Pricing can be found on the Menu Page. If you prefer to provide your own food please let us know ahead of time so we can be prepared with table space.
LOST ITEMS
We are not responsible for lost, damaged or stolen items. Unclaimed items left in our space are periodically donated.
no germs!
Feeling Sick? Please keep sick children at home. We reserve the right to send a child home to get well at our discretion. Come play when you are at your best.
Keep it Clean: Playspaces and toys are cleaned between every event. Sanitizer is provided before and after playtime and we encourage you to wash hands before eating.
Shoes: We are a shoe off facility. This is for your child’s health. Shoes are removed prior to entering the playspace and non slip socks or bare feet are required. We do have non slip socks available for children for sale, we also have shoe covers available for parents most of the time.
parking
Vehicles: Our new space has a full parking lot directly behind us for customers.
Strollers: We have a limited amount of stroller parking. We encourage you to fold up your stroller or lock it up outside.
Driving Directions: Our new address as of July 15, 2023 is 1095 The Alameda, San Jose, CA 95126 Link to Google Maps
party policies
Contract: We require a signed party contract and $150 deposit to hold your date. All party inquiries are handled on a first come, first served basis. Deposits are non refundable.
Cancellations: If your event is 30 days or less out and you decide to cancel, the full estimated cost of your event is due. If there is an emergency, we will allow (as available) you to move to another available party time within 10 days of your scheduled event. We do need 12 hours notice. Food and outside vendor fees will still be charged.
In and Out: A load-in and load-out time is included in your contract. Client hosts must arrive 15 minutes prior to their event and are allotted 15 minutes after the party to load out.
Final Head counts: Your final headcount isn’t needed until 1 week before your event. If you do have more or less guests arrive at your event you will be charged off of who attends the day of the event. (exception is a pre-planned item such as gift bags).
Adult Head counts: no charge for adults up to 50 adults ($5 each additional adult)
Decorations: Outside decorations are not allowed for weekend events. Mon-Fri parties are welcome to bring their own freestanding (not attached to walls) decor. You’ll have 30 min to set it up before the party begins.
Party Staff: Our events staff is there to assist the host. Party assistants help the host load in, arrange food items, keep food and beverages stocked, pack up and load out after the party. Staff typically does not help serve food or cake but can do so upon request. Our staff handles the cleanup so that you can focus on saying goodbye to your guests!
Payment: Payment is needed at the conclusion of your event, your deposit will be taken off the final bill.
PHOTOS
Photos may be taken of your child either by parents or Whirlygig staff. If you would like your child excluded from photographs please inform us when checking in.
9:45am Host family arrives and begins unloading car with Event Staff.
10am Party Begins and Guests enjoy free play time in the beach and farm rooms (playing on the sailboat, in the art room, in the foam pit or doing a craft). Guests can climb the tractor, play in the sandbox, slide down the slide, play dress up and more! Food is served.
11:30am Cake is served! The beach room is closed so all guests can enjoy celebrating together.
12pm Happy Guests depart and Event Staff helps pack gifts and leftovers into Host’s car.
12:15pm Host departs.