Toybox Cafe

Aim

Toybox Cafe is a safe place for children to explore, play, learn, and have fun. Expanding the story of Toybox Ted into a novel.

I moved to Worthing from London with my 8 month old and 2 year old in December 2019 and wow was it cold. My daughter had not yet climatised to the sea breeze that comes with the winter and would cry on our outings for me to make the wind stop. I quickly realised then that the many indoor places I would take them in London were now a luxury as Worthing town didn't have much to offer toddlers other than the beach or parks (which I love in the summer!). So with my teaching experience and 2 little munchkins of my own, I knew what would be good for not only the tiny people but also the grown ups bringing them to visit. This is where Toybox Cafe was born. 

On February 7th 2022, I opened the doors for the first time unbeknown how customers would react to our little children’s cafe. It has been the most amazing whirlwind so far and this cafe really has become a home from home for so many of the Worthing community. Being 18 months old as a business means the staff have had the pleasure of watching our customers have babies that are now learning to walk and it is so rewarding to be part of that journey. 

This is now the opportunity for Toybox Cafe to grow into something more exciting for your little ones. With the help of Lila-Ann Gray; a local Worthing author/grandmother, we have written a story about the adventures of Toybox Ted. This story is beautiful for your children to read as they can relate to this story of kindness being set in a place they feel safe and have fun.

The money raised through crowdfunding will be used to publish the book and create a Toybox Ted mascot who will be in regular attendance at the cafe but also used for special visits to the children hospital as our gift back. We will also use it for the overall running of the cafe to support with the cost of living so that we can give you the best experience at the cafe. 

Whether you’re donating and are yet to visit, have only been in once or are a loyal regular.. I appreciate your support and how much kindness I’ve been shown.  

This project successfully funded on 24th November 2023