Starting nursery can be a wobbly time for preschoolers and their parents or carers. But there is so much we can do to smooth the transition. Here are a few ideas:
1. Parent, Carer, Grandparent, Baby & Toddler Groups
The are tons of toddler groups happening on weekday mornings (and even some afternoons) across Edinburgh and the Lothians. Meet other parents and watch your child play and make friends! You can also choose the group that best suits your needs and lifestyle. We did some drop-in, pay-on-entry Thursday sessions at Ps & Gs Church by John Lewis. But also signed up for our local toddler group, which was ideal from 1 to c. 2.5 years.
2. Crèche sessions
There are a number of fantastic Edinburgh options. The Scottish Parliament runs a spacious and amazingly well-equipped free (yes, really!) crèche on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays from 9am to 6pm. If happy to remain in the building, you can leave your child for up to 3 hours per day, or 4 hours if booking once in a week. Children are eligible from 6 weeks to 5 years.
NB: Book one day ahead. Or at last session. Children of parliament workers get priority. We never struggled to get a place in the late pm. And just took our child out when she’d had enough! You’ll find other options too such as Raising Little Ones, in Stockbridge, or the crèche at your local gym.
More info.: parliament.scot
3. Play Cafés
Anywhere clean with fantastic toys, climbing equipment, coffee and cake! For under 1s, we’d recommend Joy Tots on Ferry Road. Other favourites were MakeBelieve in the West End and the HUGE Play Barn at Whitekirk Hill, just outside North Berwick. It’s a good day out as there’s a fab café/ restaurant and plenty of outdoor playing space (sand, climbing) when it’s sunny!
4. The local library
Ideally, you’ll find role-play equipment, colouring opportunities, ride-on vehicles. And, most importantly, other little humans!
5. Little Plaza’s ‘Little Steps’ Programme, Leith Walk Designed for children aged 12 to 24 months old, these 3.5 hour am/pm sessions enable the parent or carer to relax, chat and unwind whilst observing their child interacting with other toddlers. These sessions are led by experienced practitioners in a bright, well-equipped venue near John Lewis, Edinburgh. Coffee, cake & ice cream are all available!
More info: www.littleplaza.co.uk/littlesteps