Småland – the magical forest for play and fun

We like to make visiting IKEA both fun for kids and easier for grown-ups. Småland is a free supervised play area where kids can be entertained while grown-ups shop.

From Swedish forests to Sylvia Park

At IKEA, Småland is a free, supervised play area for children aged 3 – 8 years old. While parents browse, shop, or grab a coffee, kids can play, explore and create in a safe and inclusive environment inspired by the forests of southern Sweden.

The name Småland is a nod to the founder of IKEA, Ingvar Kamprad’s roots in Sweden – a region known for its rugged landscapes and resourceful spirit. Designed to blend fun with functionality, Småland gives little ones the freedom to play their way, whether they’re climbing, crafting, or simply taking a break. In Swedish, 'små' means 'small', making it the perfect place for little ones to have big adventures.

Something for everyone

Here’s what your little ones will discover inside Småland:

Active zone – Soft-foam structures, tunnels, and balance beams encourage movement and exploration, sparking imagination through hands-on play.
Creative corner – A bright space stocked with colouring stations, craft supplies and collaborative craft tables for budding artists.
Quiet area – A cosy zone with soft seating where kids can rest or enjoy a fun movie.

Plan your visit to Småland

Småland is waiting to welcome little adventurers, here’s how to join the fun:

Visit Småland in-store – No bookings needed just turn up and register. Småland is located near the store entrance and is open daily.
30 minute play sessions – Children aged 3 – 8 years old who are independently toilet-trained can enjoy 30 minutes of play. IKEA Family members get an extra 30 minutes (Monday – Friday).
Supervision by trained co-workers – Co-workers are trained in first aid, safety, and inclusive care to keep things safe and welcoming.
Easy pick-up – You’ll receive a notification when it’s nearly time to collect your child. The person who signed them in must be the one to pick them up.

Enjoy extended Småland play with IKEA Family

Need more time? The littlest family members can spend more time playing to give you extra time to shop. Enjoy an extra 30 minutes of play in Småland Monday to Friday as an IKEA Family favourite.

Join IKEA Family, it's free

Småland rules and safety

Småland is for the children of IKEA customers, and can be used once a day for 30 minutes.
Children can be picked up only by parents who signed their application forms.
Fill out the application form at the Småland entrance and pick up your child at the Småland exit.
You will be contacted if your child is crying or injured. Come to Småland immediately if you are contacted by the provided pager.
Capacity limits are set for safety reasons. When it exceeds the capacity, you may have to wait.
In the event of an emergency, staff will evacuate your child to the assembly point.
Should we need some assistance with your little one(s), you will receive a notification on the pager given at registration asking you to return to the Småland play area.
We always have a co-worker fully trained in first aid in the Småland area at all times.
For more information, talk to Småland coworkers.

FAQs

Children can play in Småland for 30 minutes.

Opening hours: 9:00 am – 8:30 pm (Monday – Sunday).

Please note: hours may be reviewed following opening based on demand and feedback.
We have chosen these requirements for the safety of all children in the playroom. 

Children between the ages of 3 – 8 years old accepted.

Children must be toilet-trained and be able to use the restroom on their own, without assistance. Exception: Children with disability may be exempt from certain admittance requirements (e.g. toilet-training).

Children must be able to play independently.

Maximum capacity for Småland is 30 kids.
Småland co-workers complete yearly training including specific training on how to support children with disabilities.

Co-workers do not make assumptions or ask families about a child’s disability; instead, parents or guardians can share any relevant accessibility needs in the “Additional Information” field of the registration form.
All children in Småland must be able to play without assistance from co-workers.

IKEA co-workers are instructed not to touch any children unless there is an emergency or an evacuation need. If your child has a mobility restriction that requires physical assistance, please see the information below and meet with an IKEA Duty Manager to discuss a suitable play plan.
We recognise every child’s needs are unique, and we’re committed to working with families to ensure a safe, inclusive experience. Here are the ways we can help:

Register your child with another child – a sibling, cousin, or friend who can provide support and join in the fun, as long as both meet the Småland admission requirements. If Småland is full, they’ll be admitted together when space becomes available.

Arrange for a caregiver to accompany your child in the play area alongside a trained and approved IKEA co-worker (subject to availability). The Manager on duty will confirm staffing at the time of registration.

If no co-worker is available, we can admit your caregiver to assist when no other children are present. In this scenario, we will inform you of the estimated wait time and contact you when you and your child can enter.

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