Are you looking for things to do with preschoolers? We’ve pulled together some of the best ideas and tips for keeping little ones entertained in Dublin.
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One of the nice things about having a toddler is that you’re not tied to school hours — you have the flexibility to get out and about during the day, often at quieter, less busy times. If you’re looking for things to do with preschoolers in Dublin, here are some tried-and-tested suggestions.
Things To Do With Preschoolers In Dublin
Soft Play Centres in Dublin
Visiting a soft play centre with a dedicated area for preschoolers is a great way to spend a couple of hours and burn off some energy. Many centres offer quieter off-peak times in the mornings, which can be ideal with a toddler in tow.
Zoo Adventureland and Toddler Mornings at Leisureplex
Little ones will love Zoo Adventureland at Leisureplex locations in Dublin, including Blanchardstown, Charlestown, Coolock, Stillorgan and Tallaght. Zoo Adventureland is an indoor adventure play area with a maze of slides, tunnels and ball pools for kids to explore for hours. Parents can relax nearby with a tea or coffee while keeping an eye on the fun. There’s a separate area for under 3s, and height restrictions apply to some equipment.
Toddler Mornings at Leisureplex
Leisureplex locations run dedicated toddler mornings on weekday mornings, with some venues also offering weekend sessions. Complimentary tea or coffee for the accompanying parent or guardian is often included. Sessions are generally aimed at children under 3, and an adult must accompany each child. Days, times and pricing vary by location, so it’s worth checking directly with your nearest Leisureplex before you go.
Storytime in Dublin Libraries
Visit one of the many great libraries in Dublin. Most libraries host a weekly storytime and/or a parent and toddler group. The junior section is a lovely way to spend an hour or two reading and choosing books, and your preschooler can join the library themselves to borrow their own books. Check your local library’s listings for upcoming events.
Parent and Toddler Swimming in Dublin
Go for a swim! There are swimming pools across Dublin with dedicated Parent and Toddler sessions and/or specific areas for younger children.
Water Babies runs a structured swimming programme for babies and toddlers from birth to four years, designed to build confidence and safety in the water while making the most of a baby’s natural affinity for it. Water Babies teaches across a number of pools in Dublin — check their website for current locations and course details.
Music and Other Fun Classes
Sign up for a class — music, movement, dance, drama, play labs, swimming or football are all popular options. Preschool classes are a great way for your child to meet other kids, and for you to meet other parents too.
Claphandies offer PlayFit multi-sport classes for 3 to 5 year olds, along with Toddler PlayLabs — fun, creative and social sessions for younger toddlers.
Playgrounds in Dublin
Visit the playground! Check out our guides to playgrounds in South Dublin, playgrounds in North Dublin and playgrounds in North County Dublin. Many Dublin playgrounds have been revamped in recent years and now include dedicated sections for younger children.
You may also enjoy – The Best Playgrounds In Ireland Recommended by Parents
Parent and Toddler Groups
Join a local Parent and Toddler group. There are many groups meeting weekly across Dublin, offering young children the chance to mix with others their own age, and parents the chance to meet other local families. Weekend groups have also become more popular for parents who work full time.
Attractions in Dublin
If you have a free day midweek, one of the big advantages of getting out with preschoolers is visiting popular places at off-peak times, when older kids are at school and things are much quieter.
Some favourite attractions with younger children include:
- The Ark in Temple Bar – a creative space with wonderful shows and workshops for kids of all ages, with preschooler workshops proving particularly popular.
- Dublin Zoo – a firm family favourite, with the City Farm and African Plains always a big hit with little ones.
- National Aquatic Centre Aquazone – younger children will love the pirate ship, and must be accompanied by an adult. Check the centre’s website for current age policies and pricing.
- National Museums of Ireland – three sites across Dublin, all free to visit, with plenty to enjoy for preschoolers as well as older children.
You may also enjoy – Our Pick of What’s On This Month
Frequently Asked Questions
What age counts as a preschooler for these activities?
Most of the activities above are aimed at children from around 1 to 5 years old, though many venues have specific age cut-offs or height restrictions — it’s worth checking before you visit if this matters for your child.
Are these activities free?
Some are free, like library storytime and visiting the National Museums of Ireland, while others such as soft play centres, Leisureplex toddler mornings and swimming classes carry a fee. Always check current pricing directly with the venue.
Do I need to book in advance?
It varies. Classes like Water Babies and Claphandies typically require booking onto a course, while drop-in options like playgrounds and some library sessions don’t need advance booking. When in doubt, check the venue’s website or give them a call.
What’s the best time of day to visit with a toddler?
Weekday mornings are generally the quietest time at most venues, since older children are at school. This is also often when off-peak rates apply at play centres and pools.
Related Articles
- Playgrounds in South Dublin
- Playgrounds in North Dublin
- Playgrounds in North County Dublin
- The Best Playgrounds In Ireland Recommended by Parents
- Our Pick of What’s On This Month
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