As the mother of a 9-year-old with autism, Jennifer Bennett saw a need for children on the autism spectrum to be able to interact in a safe and caring environment.

Last week, Ms. Bennett opened Under the Umbrella, a drop-off play center focusing on children with autism.

“When my son was diagnosed with autism five years ago, I didn’t have many people I could lean on for support, so I wanted to provide resources for other parents like me,” she said.

Ms. Bennett, who in 2008 received the Autism Society of America Greater Georgia Chapter Hero for Autism certificate, said she wanted to create an atmosphere where parents would know their children were in good hands.

“When you have children with autism, it’s hard to leave them with just anyone without providing a long list of instructions,” she said. “But we provide a fun, safe place for children, while parents take time for themselves.”

According to Ms. Bennett, the main focus of her center is play.

“I want the kids to know this isn’t therapy. This is where they can relax,” she said.

The center is designed for children ages 2 to 12 to spend up to four hours in a supervised setting.

Monday through Friday, normal operating hours are from 9:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. for the morning session and 2:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. for the afternoon session.

Saturday and Sunday, Under the Umbrella is open 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. and is also available for birthday parties.

One Saturday night each month, the center will be open from 6-10pm for Parents’ Night Out.

Prices are $20 an hour during the week and $25 an hour on the weekends.

Under The Umbrella club members and get a 20 percent discount when prepaying for 10 hours.

The play center is at 8560 Holcomb Bridge Road, Suite 120, in Alpharetta.

Information: (770) 642-4040 or www.playundertheumbrella.com.