u/Alternative_Roll_247

Trying to figure out if/when to hire a lawyer — opening a kids' indoor play center

I'm in the early planning stages of opening a children's indoor play center — think open play, maybe some classes, birthday parties, that kind of thing. Still in the idea/research phase, haven't pulled any triggers yet.

One thing I keep going back and forth on is whether to bring in a lawyer early, and if so, when.

Two questions for those who've been through it:

1. Was hiring a lawyer early in your journey worth it? Or did you wish you'd waited (or skipped certain things entirely)?

2. What did you actually get value from — entity setup, liability waivers, lease review, contracts? And what felt like a waste of billable hours in hindsight?

I know a kids' play space has some obvious liability considerations, but I'm also trying not to over-lawyer before I even know if the business is viable. Would love honest takes from people who've been here.

Parents of older toddlers/preschoolers — how did you get your child to fall asleep independently?

Our son is 4, and we have a very structured bedtime routine:
- bath (every other night)
- brush teeth
- books
- lights out
- bedtime music

The issue is that he absolutely will not let us leave the room until he’s fully asleep. The second we try to leave, it’s instant tears/panic.

A few months ago he only wanted to sleep in our room, and somehow a fake “notice” from the bedtime police saying he had to sleep in his own room actually worked 😂

We tried the same concept again for falling asleep independently… and it completely flopped.

I’m curious what actually worked for other families at this age.

Would love real-world advice from parents who’ve been through this because bedtime is turning into a 1+ hour commitment every night.