Whether you’re visiting Kilkenny or you’re a local parent looking for fresh ideas, finding things to do with little ones before they start school can be a challenge. So we’ve put together a handy list of things to do with preschoolers in Kilkenny.
One of the nice things about having a toddler and not being tied to school hours is the flexibility to visit places during the day, at quieter times. If you’re looking for ideas for things to do with preschoolers in Kilkenny, here are some suggestions to get you started.
Soft Play Centres in Kilkenny
Visit one of the play centres in Kilkenny with dedicated soft play areas for preschoolers — a great way to spend a couple of hours and let little legs burn off some energy.
Some soft play places to check out in Kilkenny:
- The Playstation, in Hebron Business Park, has facilities for toddlers and under-5s, along with parent and toddler mornings.
- Jellietots Play Centre is designed with younger children in mind and runs a Mother and Toddler Morning on Mondays and Fridays.
- There’s also a soft play area in MacDonagh Junction.
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Storytime in Kilkenny Libraries
Visit one of the libraries in Kilkenny. Many host a weekly storytime and/or a parent and toddler group — Graiguenamanagh Library runs Storytime for children on Saturdays, while Castlecomer Library holds Toddler Story and Crafts sessions. Check your local library’s own listings for current times and upcoming events.
The junior section of the library is also a lovely way to spend an hour reading and choosing books together — your preschooler can join the library and pick their own books to borrow.
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Parent and Toddler Swimming in Kilkenny
Go for a swim! A number of pools in Kilkenny offer dedicated Parent and Toddler swim times and specific areas for smaller children — well worth checking with your local pool for current sessions and any age-based concessions, as these can change.
Water Babies also runs dedicated baby swim classes at various locations across Kilkenny.
Music and Other Fun Classes
Sign up for a class — music, movement, dance, drama, play labs, swimming or football are all popular options for preschoolers, and they’re a great way to meet other local families too.
Gymboree offers music and play classes for toddlers at Jellietots Playcentre.
Playgrounds in Kilkenny
Visit the playground! Several playgrounds in Kilkenny have dedicated sections for smaller children. Here are some local favourites:
- Playground at Castle Park – located in the grounds of Kilkenny Castle, this playground is colourful and full of swinging and climbing equipment to keep kids of all ages busy, with plenty of benches for the adults.
- Graiguenamanagh – This playground in Fair Green is divided into two sections, with smaller equipment on one side and larger equipment for older kids on the other. There’s also a large sand pit that keeps children of many ages happy, plus benches and picnic tables.
- Thomastown – In a lovely setting beside the library on Marshes Street, this playground has a good variety of timber equipment, along with benches and picnic tables.
- Castlecomer – Within the grounds of the Discovery Park (but open to the public), this playground has adventure equipment for children of all ages.
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Parent and Toddler Groups
Join a local Parent and Toddler Group. There are many groups throughout Kilkenny that meet weekly, offering young children a chance to mix with others their own age and giving parents a chance to meet other local families.
Attractions in Kilkenny
If you have a free day midweek, one big advantage of getting out and about with preschoolers is visiting places at “off-peak” times, when older children are at school and popular spots are quieter.
Some places to visit in Kilkenny with preschoolers:
- At Nore Valley Park, you can cuddle a baby rabbit or newly hatched chick and bottle-feed lambs and goat kids — a lovely spot for a family outing.
- Check out the snakes, lizards, turtles, crocodiles and more at the National Reptile Zoo in Hebron Business Park, Kilkenny City.
- At Castlecomer Discovery Park, young kids can explore the Timber Tumbles Playground, Junior Woodland Adventure Course and Elf & Fairy Village.
Events for Preschoolers in Kilkenny
Keep an eye on our events pages for regular workshops and events for younger children in the Kilkenny area.
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Go For A Walk
There are many lovely spots for a walk in Kilkenny — perfect for preschoolers to run around, collect leaves and stones, and play hide and seek.
You might also enjoy our ideas for entertaining preschoolers at home.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best free or low-cost things to do with preschoolers in Kilkenny?
Libraries, playgrounds and local walks are all free or low-cost, and a great way to fill a morning or afternoon. Many libraries also run free storytime sessions for young children.
Are there parent and toddler groups in Kilkenny?
Yes, there are several local Parent and Toddler Groups that meet weekly across the city and county. They’re a lovely way to meet other families with children the same age.
What indoor activities are good for preschoolers in Kilkenny on a rainy day?
Soft play centres, library storytime sessions and indoor swim classes are all good options for keeping preschoolers entertained when the weather isn’t cooperating.
Do any Kilkenny attractions suit toddlers as well as older children?
Yes — places like Nore Valley Park and Castlecomer Discovery Park have gentle, hands-on activities suitable for toddlers, alongside more adventurous options for older siblings.
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- Entertaining Preschoolers at Home
Save These Ideas For Later
Got a favourite spot for preschoolers in Kilkenny that we haven’t mentioned? Let us know in the comments below — and bookmark this page so you’ve got a ready-made list of ideas next time you need inspiration for a day out with your little one.
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