Irene Dixon

Irene Dixon is the owner of KidsPlay, Grey-Bruce’s premier indoor play centre for children of all ages, located in Hanover.

Originally from Toronto, Irene relocated to the Grey-Bruce region in 2011 after feeling called to a different pace of life and a stronger sense of place. Once she put down roots and started a family, she began to see a gap in the community — and a clear opportunity to create something that would serve local families like her own.

With more than 15 years of experience across several fields, including interior design and business development, Irene brought both creativity and practical business insight to the launch of KidsPlay. Located in the Hanover Business Park, KidsPlay offers imaginative role-playing environments, soft contained play structures, slides, climbing features, and welcoming play areas for children and caregivers to enjoy together.

What makes KidsPlay especially meaningful is its commitment to accessibility and inclusion. It is one of the only indoor play centres in the region that is fully accessible and offers sensory play options for children who need a little less excitement.

Irene’s business reflects the kind of thoughtful, community-minded entrepreneurship Homegrown is proud to spotlight: seeing a need, building with intention, and creating something that makes rural family life richer, more connected, and more supported.