Dreaming up something new.

Coffee and space to run around at 8:00 in the morning. An afternoon story-time in the corner, a simple meal and the company of friends.

Folkhouse is part cafe, part bar, and part gathering place. The space and services are thoughtfully designed for adults to be comfortable and supported in bringing young children with them.

We want going out with young people to be joyful. A little less prep, a little less vigilance, and a little less stress.

We have wipes and a way to warm up formula. We have coffee, tea, and a snack bar. We have soft chairs and protected outlets. We have a diaper pail next to the changing station and a step-stool next to the sink.

Why not order the house wine and goldfish?
Or a local beer and string cheese?

It’s the third space we’re missing. Open early on weekends, open when daycare lets out, and open when the classroom is closed. Invite friends without children, but infants, toddlers and little kids will be here too.

We hope you’ll join us.

We feel the need.

The 2024 US Surgeon General’s Advisory highlights the effect of our social structure on parents and caregivers with young children. It’s called “Parents Under Pressure” and it’s grim.

Becoming a parent is beautiful and it’s hard. It’s enough to adjust your lifestyle and support a young person in their development; there shouldn’t also be an onslaught of new stressors, difficulties and doubt when moving through the world.

Supporting parents and caregivers will require a series of thoughtful policy changes and expanded community programs that will help ensure parents and caregivers can… benefit from places and initiatives that support social connection and community. It will also require us to rethink cultural norms around parenting. Part of that will involve shifting how we value parenting.

We aim to normalize caregiving in a way that young people can easily and joyfully be supported in the spaces we also want to occupy.

Our inspiration.

We’re inspired by a recognition that we can embrace other ways of being and create new norms.

Community gathering places around the world have touched us personally, including Folkehuset Absalon in Copenhagen, Denmark; Taborspace in Portland, Oregon; and Cafe des Habitudes in Montreal, QC, Canada.

We’re dreaming up something new for families in the Burlington area.