The “Yes Space”: Creating a Safe, Independent Play Zone for Babies and Toddlers

A Montessori-inspired approach to play that gives babies freedom, confidence, and calm—without the constant “no”

So what exactly is a Yes Space? There’s a moment every parent knows too well, the second you look away and hear that suspicious silence. Are they pulling books off the shelf? Scaling the sofa? Investigating the cat’s tail?

Enter: the Yes Space.

It’s exactly what it sounds like, a fully baby-proofed zone where everything is safe to touch, taste, stack, and tumble. A space where you can take a breath, sip your tea while it’s still warm, and let your little one explore freely without hearing yourself say “no” every few seconds.

Where Did the Term “Yes Space” Come From?

The phrase “Yes Space” was first popularised by parenting expert Janet Lansbury, whose respectful parenting approach is inspired by the teachings of Magda Gerber and the RIE (Resources for Infant Educarers) philosophy. Lansbury introduced the concept as a way to support independent play and reduce the need for constant redirection or correction.

Rather than setting up your home as a minefield of “no”s (no touching, no climbing, no chewing that wire), a Yes Space flips the script. It’s an area designed specifically so you can say yes to everything. The goal? Freedom within safe, clear limits, with mutual trust at the heart of it.

It’s an idea that blends beautifully with Montessori-style learning and respectful caregiving, two influences that run right through everything we do at Mamiina.

Why It Matters (For Both of You)

Confidence & Independence: Babies and toddlers thrive when they’re given the chance to explore on their terms. A Yes Space gives them the autonomy to choose what to do—without constant correction.
Improved Focus: Children concentrate better in calm, clutter-free spaces where they can engage deeply with one activity at a time.
Less Stress for You: When you know everything within arm’s reach is safe, you’re not hovering. You’re nearby, but not on them.

Essentials for a Yes Space

You don’t need a big room or expensive kit to make one. Here’s what we suggest:

Soft flooring: Think play mats, rugs, or natural fibres to cushion tumbles.
Low shelving: Open shelves at child-height with a few select toys per shelf. This promotes choice without overwhelming.
Montessori-style toys: Wooden blocks, stacking toys, peg puzzles, and other open-ended materials that encourage imagination.
Natural light & calm tones: Keep the space visually soothing—avoid bright flashing lights or noisy plastic clutter.
Safe boundaries: Use baby gates, playpens, or furniture to mark out the space clearly. The goal is freedom within limits.

We Built One Too: Barnville at Mamiina

When we created Barnville, our small role-play play space inside the Mamiina shop, we designed it with these very principles in mind.

Barnville isn’t just a place to play—it’s a mini world where little ones aged 1–5 can explore freely, touch everything, and get lost in pretend play without the usual restrictions of a traditional play area. Every part of it—from the wooden toys and scaled-down furniture to the cosy corners and neutral colours—reflects the same “Yes Space” thinking. Children feel calm, parents feel reassured, and everyone gets to relax a little.

It’s proof that when a space is set up with thought and care, it becomes more than just a corner to contain the chaos—it becomes a place of real, meaningful play.

Make Your Own Yes Space at Home

We stock a large selection of simple, natural toys and accessories that are perfect for building your own Yes Space at home full of open-ended toys. From wooden stacking toys to child-sized furniture, these items are designed with real use (and real children) in mind.

View all toys.