The Importance of a Third Space: How Play Hideaway is Bringing Families Together in Mississauga

03/28/2025

Imagine a place where your child can play freely, you can connect with other parents, and the stress of daily life feels a little lighter. That’s the magic of a “third space”—a place beyond home and work that fosters connection, relaxation, and community. But what exactly is a third space, and why is it so important for children, families, and communities?

What is a Third Space?

Back in the 1980s, sociologist Ray Oldenburg defined the third space as a place in the community where people spend time outside of their homes or work. These spaces—such as local parks, libraries, or community centers—serve as neutral grounds where people can gather, connect, and form meaningful bonds.

Over time, many traditional third spaces have been replaced by online communities or commercialized, making it harder to find physical spaces for genuine social interaction. This shift has contributed to rising social isolation, particularly in larger cities. In Canada, the decline of third places has sparked renewed interest in how these community spaces can support social connection, well-being, and a sense of belonging.

Research shows that third spaces offer unique benefits—they can be accessible, flexible, and free of judgment, making them ideal for families. As a child, you may have fond memories of a special place where you made friends while your parent did the same.

Why Third Spaces Matter: Supporting Child Development and Family Life

For children, third spaces provide a unique opportunity to explore, learn, and interact with peers in ways that differ from home or school. These spaces encourage creativity, physical activity, and socialization—crucial aspects of development. They allow children to experience new things, make decisions, and engage in free play within a safe, supportive environment. For families and adults, third spaces serve as a retreat—a break from the pressures of daily life, whether it’s work, household chores, or the constant balancing act of modern life. These spaces foster connection and a sense of belonging. They also become places where families can celebrate milestones, birthdays, or simply enjoy quality time together.

3 Ways to Make the Most of a Third Space

1. Engage with the Community
A third space is more than just a physical place—it’s a community. Get to know the people who frequent it and take part in the activities it offers. Whether it’s through playdates, parent groups, or events, interacting with others helps foster a deeper connection to the space and the people in it. The more you engage, the more you feel like you belong.

2. Make Time for Regular Visits
Consistency is key when it comes to making the most of a third space. By visiting regularly, both you and your children will have the opportunity to build relationships with the people and the space itself. This routine creates a sense of stability, comfort, and connection that benefits everyone’s mental and emotional well-being.

3. Balance Independent Play and Family Connection
A great third space should offer enriching activities that support your child’s growth, whether they’re engaging in a creative class or simply exploring through play. Look for spaces that provide opportunities for creativity, physical activity, and social skills. Whether you’re actively playing with your child or enjoying a break while they explore, a third space should be a place
where both parents and children feel comfortable and supported.

The Inspiration Behind Play Hideaway

As a new mom, I struggled to find a space that felt like a home away from home—somewhere my children could engage in quality activities while I felt supported as a caregiver. I wanted a place that wasn’t just a business, but a community that genuinely cared about the well-being of families. That’s when the idea for Play Hideaway was born. My goal was to create a space where families in Mississauga could feel valued, supported, and connected—where children’s names and interests were remembered, and parents could truly relax knowing their kids were in a nurturing environment. At Play Hideaway, we listen to the needs of our community and work hard to create a space that benefits both children and caregivers.

As I transitioned back to work and later into entrepreneurship, finding a third space that supported me as a parent became even more difficult. The spaces I did find were heavily focused on child development and the parent-child relationship, which, as a child therapist, I
deeply value. However, I often felt like I was giving my all to my children—setting up activities at home, reading important books, having open conversations, and ensuring our bond was always a top priority. What I really needed was a third space that also allowed me to take a break without pressure or judgment. A place where both children and parents could feel nurtured—not just as caregivers, but as individuals.

About the Author
Ivi Lindau is a Registered Social Worker and the founder of Play Hideaway, a unique co-working and play space designed for parents and young children, rooted in connection, community, and care. With over 20 years of experience supporting children and families across the GTA, Ivi has devoted her career to fostering emotional wellness through play, creativity, and compassion. Prior to launching Play Hideaway, she served as a Program Supervisor and Clinical Counsellor at a non-profit agency in Peel. After welcoming her second child and stepping into maternity leave once again, Ivi followed her heart—and a leap of faith—to build the space she wished existed for parents like her. Visit https://www.playhideaway.ca/.