FAQ
General
Do 10 Packs and gift cards work at either location?
Yes! Your 10 Pack "plays" and gift cards will work at either location!
Why are appointments needed to play?
We have high standards for playtime at bug & goose! That means that you can sit, drink your coffee and watch your child play without worrying about overcrowding! And appointments help ensure your experience is what we designed it to be.
What is the maximum number of children slotted at an Open Play?
To allow for the best experience for everyone, 12 children are allowed during a Reserved Open Play. Please note that children 6 months and under, or those who will remain in a car seat or sling for the duration of the play session do not count toward the maximum capacity.
How many adults may attend with one child during an Open Play?
We have reserved space for 2 adults to accompany each child during Open Play.
Can I reschedule my appointment?
We are happy to reschedule your reservation provided we have advance notice! We kindly ask that a 48-hour window is given. However, we all have had days where you or your kiddo wakes up not feeling the best. In those instances please give us as much advanced notice as possible. Email info@bugandgoose.com with a date that works for you and our availability, and we'll get your reservation moved. Unfortunately, we are unable to offer a refund or credit for a missed appointment after the reserved time slot has begun.
I missed my appointment, can I have it moved?
Unfortunately, we are unable to offer a refund or credit for a missed appointment after the reserved time slot has begun. Thank you for your understanding!
What age do you require appointments for kids?
There isn't a set age that we require reservations - we just ask that any child that will be actively playing with our toys (vs sleeping in a car seat, sling, carrier, etc.) has a slot booked and that you kindly pay admission for them.
Are there age restrictions in the play area?
Open Play is open to everyone. While our play area generally appeals to children 6 years and younger, we find older siblings can enjoy playing with them as well, as long as they are playing appropriately. There is a designated area for children 18 months and younger to ensure every age enjoys play time in the space!
Do caregivers need to wear socks in the play and cafe area?
Yes, in order to maintain the cleanliness of the space we require everyone entering the play area to wear socks. If you forgot socks, we have socks of many sizes for purchase for $3.00.
How do you keep a clean space?
If you or your child have any symptoms consistent with being sick we respectfully ask that you stay home. If we notice you or your child experiencing any of these symptoms, we will ask you to reschedule your visit for another time. We take this very seriously, please respect our effort to provide a fun and clean environment for all patrons. Also if you notice a toy enter your child’s mouth, please place it in a ‘dirty toy’ bin around the play space. It will be sanitized before being enjoyed by someone else. Thank you for your help in keeping a clean space!
Is outside food permitted at Bug & Goose Play Cafe?
No, we do not permit outside food in Bug & Goose. Given the dietary restrictions and allergies some may have, we do not permit outside food inside the space. We have a variety of snack options and beverages available to fit almost any special diet like: applesauce pouches, Goldfish crackers, Pirate Booty cheese puffs, string cheese, fig bars, and fruit snacks. We also have some yummy bakery for a special treat!
What is your policy for severe weather and snow?
Wisconsin winters can be brutal! During the week, we will follow the direction of Elmbrook Public Schools and Kettle Moraine School District on their weather closures. For closures on the weekend, we will reach out to all guests signed up to notify of a closure. Otherwise, you can assume we are open! You can also check our social media accounts for the most updated information. Play reservations will be rescheduled to the soonest day/time that is available.
Is there parking available?
There is ample parking available right outside of our doors!
Parties
Why can't I see availability dates online?
We reserve parties or open plays on a first-come, first-served basis. Our availability depends on what gets booked first!
Can I bring in my own beer or wine?
Unfortunately, no. We cannot allow any outside alcohol of any kind on the property.
Do you only host birthday parties?
We host just about any party you can think of! The space works great for family reunions with a lot of children, adult birthday parties with a lot of children, baby showers, holiday get-togethers, and more. Let us know how we can accommodate your event!
Is the space private?
Yes! It will just be you and your guests.
How far out should I book my event?
We suggest booking 3 months in advance for the best chance to get your desired date. We can reserve a date up to a year out!
Reach out to us with your preferred schedule - we'll do what we can to make it work with ours!
What if I want a party longer than 2 hours?
No problem! You can add on additional time in 30-minute increments for $75.
How much does it cost to have additional attendees over the 25 limit?
It depends on a few things! Factors like how many additional kids vs adults over the 25 and what package you've selected will impact the fee. It usually comes out to around $5 - $8 per additional person!
What are the theme options to choose from?
The options to choose from are: Dinosaur, Princess, Zoofari, Unicorn, Doughnut, Tea Party, Two-Fast (cars), Construction Trucks, Very Hungry Caterpillar, Oh Twodles, Paw Patrol, Baby Shark and Generic Happy Birthday.
What if I want my own theme that you don't offer?
No problem! We will work with you to provide solid color plates and tablecloths that match your theme. If we have any existing decor that corresponds with your theme, we can put that out too!
Can we bring our own decorations?
Yes! But, there are a few restrictions. Nothing can be taped or adhered to any painted wall. We have a few different hooks and places to hang items on walls. There is no confetti or silly string.
What is in the goodie bags?
We include: a bug & goose note pad, 4 crayons, a bubble wand, a nut-free sweet treat and a few other trinkets like a squishy, a small spiral toy or a theme related item!
When do I pay my deposit?
You pay the $100 deposit to reserve the date of your party.
When do I pay my balance?
You can pay your final balance on the day of the party before you leave.
What time should we arrive the day of the party?
You can arrive 15 minutes before the party begins! Please note, we may also be adding some final touches to the decor at this time, but you can start setting up anything additional you are bringing 15 minutes before the start of your event. If you anticipate needing additional time, please let us know.
What is the role of the party attendants?
The party attendants will help you set up and make sure all of the food, drinks and coffee is set up properly. They help control the flow of the party. They will also cut and serve the cake and do ALL the clean-up after the party, including packaging up any left-over food!
Should I tip the party attendants?
It is optional to tip the party attendants, but always appreciated for excellent service. If you choose to do so, you can do so via cash or credit card.
Can parents drop their children off at the party?
No, we do not currently offer drop-off parties. Caregivers must stay with their children.
What are my options for drinks?
Your guests can have access to the espresso bar via an open tab or a cash bar. We also sell bottled water, sparkling water, lemonade, diet coke cans and juice boxes at the cafe! These can be part of an open tab or cash bar. You may bring in a cooler with drinks of your own, but please be mindful that it does not leak! And as a reminder, alcohol of any type is not allowed.
What kind of food can I bring in for my Bring Your Own Bites?
You can bring in any food you like with one restriction: please do not include food with nuts, as we are a nut aware facility. This means no peanut butter!
What food works well for a Bring Your Own Bites party?
We find sandwich boxes from popular food chains are simple and work well! There are also some other local places that cater food as we encourage supporting small businesses :)
Where do we set up food?
We can set up food on the cafe counter, the windowsill, and also on the cake table! We can help you arrange things upon your arrival.
Do you have any way to keep my food warm?
Unfortunately, no.
What is done with any food that is left over?
Any food that is purchased with a party package is yours to take home!
Can we open presents during the party?
To allow for maximum PLAY time, we kindly ask that all gifts be opened at home, after completion of the party. This also ensures that any presents received are not accidentally mixed up with the toys at Bug & Goose!
Is my deposit refundable?
Unfortunately, all deposits made to hold birthday parties are non-refundable.
Health & Safety Policies
What are you asking of your Guests to keep others safe?
- Stay home if they are feeling sick or recovering.
- Remove shoes and wear socks beyond the entrance vestibule.
- Place soiled toys in designated bins to be sanitized.
-Wash hands and use hand sanitizer located throughout the cafe.
During a Private Play session, is the space totally private?
Yes! The space is entirely yours to enjoy with your guests.