As the temperatures drop and the sniffles begin, October marks the start of cold and flu season — a time when play cafés face unique challenges in maintaining a clean, healthy, and welcoming environment. Parents want reassurance that your facility is doing everything possible to keep little ones safe, and your proactive communication can make all the difference. 

How to Handle the Cold & Flu Season at Your Play Café

Here’s how to handle the cold and flu season at your play café while building trust and confidence among your guests.

Review and Refresh Your Cleaning Protocols

A visible, consistent cleaning routine not only protects your guests, but it also protects your brand reputation. Parents notice when a space looks, smells, and feels clean. 

Tips to strengthen your cleaning process: 

• Post your cleaning schedule near the front desk or restrooms so parents can see your team’s commitment in action. 

• Focus on high-touch surfaces — doorknobs, climbing structures, handrails, counters, and toys. 

• Use child-safe disinfectants that meet EPA or local health standards, and consider switching to products labeled as non-toxic and fragrance-free for sensitive little noses. 

• Clean as you go. Have staff perform light wipe-downs between open play sessions or parties. A quick clean between groups keeps germs at bay and creates a visible sense of care. 

Pro Tip: If you use Party Center Software’s timecard or task management features, assign daily cleaning checklists to your team and track completion digitally. 

 Reinforce Waiver and Health Policy Reminders

Your waiver isn’t just a formality — it’s a communication tool that helps set expectations with guests. 

During cold and flu season, consider adding a short note to your waiver or confirmation emails reminding parents not to attend if their child shows symptoms of illness. 

Example language you can include: 

“To keep all our guests healthy and happy, we ask that families refrain from visiting if anyone in your group has a fever, cough, or other signs of illness. We’ll be excited to see you once everyone feels better!” 

By weaving this message into your digital waiver, online booking forms, and party reminders, you show that you care about everyone’s well-being — and parents will appreciate your proactive stance. 

 Communicate Clearly and Consistently with Parents

Transparency builds parent trust — one of the most valuable assets for any play café. During cold and flu season, keep your audience informed through multiple channels: 

• Email or blog updates: Share your health and safety policies, new cleaning measures, or seasonal reminders. 

• Social media posts: Highlight your team’s efforts with a friendly tone. For example, “We’re keeping playtime healthy this fall! Our team disinfects surfaces throughout the day so families can play with confidence.” 

• On-site signage: Simple, cheerful reminders like “Let’s keep playtime germ-free! Please wash your hands before and after play.” 

Pro Tip: Use Party Center Software’s email automation tools to send reminders about waivers, rescheduling policies, or seasonal health tips. 

 Empower Your Team to Lead by Example

Your staff is your first line of defense — and your biggest ambassadors for cleanliness and care. Train your team to: 

• Encourage handwashing before playtime or snacks. 

• Politely remind guests about wellness policies when needed. 

• Model healthy behavior — like sanitizing hands after helping children or wiping down shared areas. 

Regularly review cleaning tasks and reward staff who go above and beyond to keep your play café spotless and safe. 

 Show That You Care — and Parents Will, Too

Health-conscious parents are more likely to return (and recommend you!) when they feel confident in your commitment to cleanliness and communication. 

By taking a proactive, transparent approach this cold and flu season, you’ll not only minimize germs — you’ll strengthen your community’s trust in your play café. 

Final Takeaway 

The reality is that cold and flu season happens every year — but your response determines whether parents see your play café as a risk or a refuge. With strong cleaning practices, clear health policies, and open communication, you can keep families coming back for playtime they feel good about.