Local couple decides
to make their own playland

By Lauren Fritsky
Times Staff Writer

Frederick and Nicole Rabena work a lot, but their main area of expertise is play.
With four kids ages 3 to 16, the Bustleton family is constantly scheduling a party or a trip to an entertainment facility.
The Rabenas found that most play areas they visited lacked a well-rounded approach to stimulating children. Some offered video games, but not enough physical equipment, while others featured too little technology and too much open space.
Seeking a place that combined all those amenities, the Rabenas designed the Kix & Giggles Children’s Playland for children ages 3 to 10. The facility opened at 9356 Old Bustleton Ave. on Saturday.
"We took a little bit of everything, and we wanted to put in a little bit of each of those things so that there’s more of a variety," said Fred Rabena.
The Rabenas used their combined 35 years in the hospitality industry to develop their playland plan. Originally, they looked to open something like an ice cream shop that the whole family could be involved in.
Then, a trip to a local entertainment franchise set off a light bulb.
"We spent so much money on my son’s birthday at Chuck E. Cheese, I said, ‘I know exactly what we’re going to do,’" Fred Rabena said.
Highlights of the 2,000-square-foot Kix & Giggles, which can accommodate up to 50 children, include a multi-colored wrap-around gym, a foam forest, slides, a web bridge and upright challenge, a rock wall and a soft-play section for babies and toddlers. A 1,500-square-foot outside space features a seasonal moon bounce, jungle gym and seating area. Kix and Giggles will also host children’s birthday parties.
The new indoor/outdoor playground is unlike other facilities in another aspect — the Rabenas plan to cater their Monday hours to families who have children with disabilities. Their inspiration was their 3-year-old daughter Isabella, who was born with Down syndrome and sometimes has trouble in general play situations.
The Rabenas stress that Kix and Giggles does not employ a physical therapist or support staff for children with disabilities. They’ve gotten so much interest in the unique Monday schedule that they’re asking parents to call ahead if they plan to come.
The Rabenas hope that Kix & Giggles becomes a safe play haven for families.
"I think that we’re very thankful for the response the neighborhood has given us . . . hopefully we can give a nice experience to the families," Fred Rabena said. ••