A play bus (or playbus or learning bus) is a bus used for providing a mobile facility for a variety of activities surrounding entertainment and education, usually for children of pre-school or school age.
Play buses are specially converted for their purpose, usually from second hand vehicles, although occasionally are purpose built by a bus manufacturer. Play buses can be of any size, from minibuses to double-deckers, and may be operated by charities, education authorities or as private businesses. The latter particularly market their services as a mobile party venue for children's birthday celebrations and the like.
Depending on usage and fittings, play buses may provide mobile playgrounds, gymnasiums, library services, or education centres as a mobile classroom.
In the United Kingdom, the National Playbus Association is a charity that provides support and advice to organisations, wishing to operate play buses. Formed in 1969, it is now supported by various government departments.[1]