Create music play space North Shields

The environment

We are literally recycling an old building. All furniture and soft furnishings have been sourced from Facebook marketplace, so we are giving unwanted items a new lease of life.

The local economy

Cocoon is in a shopping centre in North Shields, so those visiting use the local cafes, library and shops, as well as public transport

Volunteering, jobs & education

We have engaged a visual artist, musician and dance artist. There are volunteering opportunities for those in the community too to come and help us.

Arts, culture & heritage

Families at Cocoon as spending time together away from screens and the cost-of-living crisis. The play space is beautifully painted and resourced for music and movement play. There are murals all over the walls, soft flooring, instruments, movement resources. Our focus is music and movement play. We added a 'craft room' next to the main space in response to our children's creative instincts to paint, draw and create. They are engaged in music, dance, art and play.

Activity, health and leisure

Music and movement play are at the heart of the project, and the experience is centred around each child and their family. This provides opportunities to strengthen family bonds and encourage play with carers, in a relaxed and welcoming setting. It is a wonderful opportunity for children to try something new alongside their main caregivers. Many younger children do not get to play with their carers and families on a regular basis. Adult life is too stressful and busy. The space promotes activity and leisure as a family on each family’s own terms. Children's physical development thrives at Cocoon, as it is a huge space that children can move freely in. The connection and bonds built with parents/carers is a joy to witness. Cocoon gives permission to play together with no other distractions or pressures.