Carole Levy
By Carole Levy
Billed as a place “Where every mother’s dream comes true”, StarKids in the Sanctuary Lakes Shopping Centre launched in mid-January and the response has been overwhelming, according to founder and director Nisha Ambwani.
StarKids offers children and tweenies an amazing spa experience and parties within an equally amazing salon, where everything is designed for fun and glamour, using only chemical-free products. It’s a place where all children are given a royal welcome, in a thrilling and engaging setting.
Originally a primary school teacher and entrepreneur in Dubai, Nisha has always loved children and lamented the lack of child-friendly salons for her own kids. That was a catalyst to creating StarKids where everything revolves around the children.
“My children hated the chemical smells and the impersonal feel around them when getting haircuts. That’s why StarKids uses only natural products across the board, from make-up and nail polish to hair and body care products.
“Our salon, professionally designed to my own concept, is kids’ heaven in itself – there are stacks of photos and other details on our website, Facebook and Instagram. And we have a shop where all our products are available for home use.”
The on-site shop carries only organic products, with no chemicals that can cause harm. Nisha says that one of the most popular items is the play make-up set, suitable for toddlers and up. All items can also be ordered online and shipped out the following day.
The various pamper packages, especially when shared with best friends or sisters, are also hugely popular. And the mums aren’t forgotten.
“We have mums and their daughter and son come in and each gets pampered to the max. While the boy receives a trendy haircut – while sitting in a racing car – mum and daughter can get a manicure/pedicure together, or they can both get a haircut. Or while the kids get pampered, get on our iPads, read a book or watch a movie, mum can get her facial waxing done.
“The whole experience is really bonding for mums and kids, and our lovely team goes out of their way to make everything very special.”
Nisha notes that children with special needs are received lovingly and sensitively. She tells of a six-year-old boy with autism who came in with his mum for a haircut in StarKids’ opening week.
“It was his first (free) trial visit, and our specialist staff knew just what to do. We played soothing music, gave him books to read and iPad to distract him, and he began to feel comfy.
“On his second visit, he was great. Our hairdresser played with his hair, and got him relaxed with the scissors which he found scary. It was so wonderful to see him settle in and enjoy the experience.”
StarKids is definitely set to be the destination of choice for birthday parties and treats. It’s utterly unique, offers great value for money, and the joyful experience will be remembered for a long time.
StarKids, Sanctuary Lakes Shopping Centre, 300 Point Cook Road, Point Cook. Enquiries: 0491 683 581 or www.starkss.com.au
