PARENTS are up in arms after a soft play centre hid realistic life size body bags for kids to find.
Rugrats and Halfpints in Cirencester, Gloucestershire has since apologised for the Halloween-themed stunt following concerns from “shocked” parents.
Rugrats and Half Pints was slammed by parents after a Halloween-themed detail attracted criticism[/caption]
The soft play centre in Gloucestershire hung up lifelike body bags[/caption]
Rugrats have since apologised and removed the body bags[/caption]
One mum admitted doing a “double take” when she locked eyes with the blood-curdling decorations.
Images reveal how the props uncannily resemble human bodies covered in black plastic.
The mum, who wished to remain anonymous, told Sky News: “I went inside with my daughter.
“The body bags were at the back which can’t be seen from the cafe area, only by kids inside.
“When I saw them I did a double take – surely that can’t be what I think it is? I just didn’t want to have to explain to my kid what they were.
“I spoke to some other parents after who were as shocked as I was that it was deemed appropriate. It’s a great soft play, but that did shock me a bit!”
Rugrats and Halfpints, which charges as high as £11.75 per child, assures parents it is “committed to providing a safe, clean and stimulating environment, with the emphasis on fun”.
A spokesperson told Sky News: “This is the first time someone has brought it to our attention so of course due to this we will take them down immediately.
“It wasn’t to cause distress and we apologise this is how they have felt.”
According to the centre’s website, the Cirencester inside play park offers parents “a variety of different play areas and entertainment for your kids to get stuck in while you can enjoy our onsite cafe”.
“Winner of the Travellers Choice Award 2022, Rugrats is committed to providing a safe, clean and stimulating environment, with the emphasis on fun,” it says.
“In essence, Rugrats and Half Pints is the soft play centre you have been waiting for.”
The Sun Online has reached out to Rugrats for comment.
HALLO-NO
Meanwhile, one expert has revealed the hidden dangers of kids’ Halloween costumes, including nits and lurgy.
With Halloween fast approaching, many of our little ones will be excitedly planning which of their favourite film characters or spooky creatures to dress up with.
However, Tom Golubovich, a Halloween & design expert from Ninja Transfers, highlighted that masks can actually pose a number of dangers to children, especially those under five.
He said: “While masks might seem like an easy way to complete a costume, they can actually cause hidden safety concerns for young children.
“From breathing issues to hygiene concerns involving germs and nits, there are better and safer alternatives for kids this Halloween.”
Halloween masks are often made with thick materials, and have small breathing holes, meaning that they can restrict airflow.
Tom said: “The physical exertion of walking from house to house, combined with the excitement of the night, may exacerbate breathing difficulties when wearing a mask.”
Instead of masks, Tom recommends using face paint and makeup instead.
This is a great way to get creative, but make sure to use hypoallergenic products, to protect sensitive skin.
He added that younger children have smaller airways, meaning that Halloween masks could turn a fun night into a dangerous experience for little ones.
