Play is the work of childhood

Our passion is inspired by Lisa’s little girl Layla. 

Layla was born with Congenital Cytomegalovirus (CMV). It is a very common viral infection that most people don’t realize they have contracted, as it presents symptoms like the cold and flu.

Once someone is infected by the virus, it becomes dormant within the body for life and may or may not reactivate over time. 

CMV is generally contracted through bodily fluids of young children/ babies or through affected people. 

For pregnant people and young babies who contract the virus for the first time it can be very life threatening. Unlucky for Lisa, she caught it for the first time as a ‘primary infection’ whilst pregnant. Usually you can find out if you have contracted the virus through your initial blood test, however Lisa was not made aware of this until after birth when Layla was born with the ‘Blueberry muffin rash’ which meant she had low platelets causing blood clots throughout her body. 

Shortly after her birth she was rushed to Brisbane to gain access to more intensive care. After multiple tests, Layla not only had low platelets but she was also born with two cysts located on her brain, an enlarged liver, kidney & spleen and also a small head circumference. All symptoms relating to congenital CMV.

Those born with CMV can develop; vision loss, hearing loss, enlarged liver, spleen and kidneys and intellectual disability. CMV may also cause more serious disabilities such as cerebral palsy, down syndrome, fetal alcohol syndrome and neural tube defects.

After spending 4 weeks in NICU, undergoing tests, transfusions and antivirals to fight the virus we were soon able to take her home to continue bi-weekly blood counts, and antivirals for 3 months. Layla has unilateral hearing loss (deafness in one ear) and required ongoing monitoring including audiology, physiotherapy, occupational therapy & speech therapy. 

She started early development therapy weekly to assist with her development in the early stages of life. Now after two years she only requires speech therapy to help assist with hearing and speech development.

We had so many struggles living in a regional town and not having access to therapy that was needed, so travelling to the bigger city was always on the agenda for us. 

We also struggled with finding children development and sensory toys to help with her learning and playing. The vast majority were either bought online or in the big city. 

Layla has done amazing through her first 2 years. We couldn't be any prouder of the young lady she has become. 

She has motivated us to start a business, so that the development of Mini Munchkins is not limited. We hope to be a one-stop shop for educational toys that will develop your little ones.