We've compiled the information on this page to address some of the inquiries we get most often. If you still have questions after reviewing the information below, please reach out via the Contact Us page.

 

How does the cooperative (co-op) work?

All member families have full access to the space and community and also participate in room maintenance and community-building through requirements to complete at least one volunteer and one cleaning activity per membership year. A volunteer board of parents oversees the regular operations and maintenance of the room, and coordinates community events and fundraisers. 

Is the room staffed?

The room is not staffed. All member families have individual key codes and can access the room anytime they wish during open hours. Parents and other caregivers must supervise their children while using the room, and all members are responsible for cleaning up the room before they depart.

Is food allowed in the room?

Yes. Snacks are provided in the room during regular play. Members and guests are also allowed to bring their own food. Please note that we are a nut-free playspace.

Can non-members attend events?

Events are generally for members-only. We organize a few events each year that are open to the public, including our spring open house.

Can the general public rent the room for private parties?

Private party rentals are restricted to current MFR members.

Do you offer tours of the MFR space?

Our board is composed entirely of parent volunteers and we do not have the capability to offer individual tours. Non-members may visit the space as a guest of a member family or during our annual spring open house.

Who is eligible for a membership?

Our membership is open to all families with young children. We do not have an age limit, though the toys, equipment and activities in our space are generally geared toward ages 0-6. We welcome families from all area communities, including but not limited to: Melrose, Wakefield, Stoneham, Saugus, Medford, and Malden.

What is the membership term?

Our membership is annual and runs from September 1st to August 31st. Existing members who complete all requirements are eligible for renewal each year.

I am on the waitlist, when will I get a membership offer?

Our membership drive occurs over the summer with new member offers being sent via email between June and August. The number of memberships available each year varies as it depends on the number of current members who renew. We have been able to offer memberships to the vast majority of families on our waitlist in recent years.

I got a membership offer but am not ready to join, can I defer?

We do not offer membership deferment, though you are more than welcome to sign up for the waitlist for the following membership year. We recommend you do that on or after September 1st.

Is there any opportunity to join during the membership year?

We do not offer rolling admissions. Memberships are only offered once per year.

How can I support the Melrose Family Room?

As a not-for-profit organization, we rely on fundraising and donations to support programming, events and membership scholarships. We happily accept donations of any size through our Zeffy page. We are also always open to local fundraising opportunities, feel free to reach out!