Got a toddler or preschooler at home? Finding things to do together before school starts can be tricky — especially if you’re new to the area. Here are our favourite things to do with preschoolers in Waterford, whether you’ve got a spare hour or a whole day to fill.
One of the best things about having a preschooler is the flexibility. You’re not tied to school runs or term dates, so you can visit places at quieter, off-peak times during the week. Here are our suggestions for things to do with your toddler in Waterford.
Things To Do With Preschoolers In Waterford
Soft Play Centres in Waterford
A soft play centre is a great way to spend a couple of hours and let your preschooler burn off some energy, whatever the weather. A few places in Waterford with dedicated toddler-friendly soft play areas:
- Activate Waterford, Ardkeen
- Pirates Adventure, Tramore
- Runamuck in Tramore
Storytime in Waterford Libraries
Waterford has a great network of libraries, and many — including Dungarvan Library and Ardkeen Library — run storytime sessions and parent-and-toddler meet-ups. Check your local library’s upcoming events to see what’s on.
The junior section is also a lovely place to spend an hour browsing and choosing books together, and it’s a nice milestone for your preschooler to get their own library card and pick out their own reads.
Parent and Toddler Swimming in Waterford
Swimming is always a hit! Several pools across Waterford run dedicated Parent and Toddler swim times or have specific areas for younger children.
Water Babies run baby swim classes at several locations in Waterford, while Turtle Tots offer baby and toddler swim classes in New Ross, Wexford — not too far to travel.
Music and Other Fun Classes
Signing up for a class is a great way for your preschooler to make friends — and for you to meet other local parents. Think music, movement, dance, drama, play labs, swimming or football. Gymboree, for example, runs music and play classes for toddlers across Waterford.
Playgrounds in Waterford
A trip to the playground is always a winner. Waterford has some lovely spots to choose from:
- Bunmahon Playground has a nice selection of equipment for smaller kids.
- The playground at Dunmore East is enclosed, making it ideal for little ones, and a nice spot for a summer picnic.
- Fenor has one of the most popular playgrounds in the area.
- Passage East playground is enclosed, with seating for parents.
- Peoples Park in Waterford City has two playgrounds, including one just for smaller kids.
You may also enjoy – The Best Playgrounds in Ireland Recommended by Parents
Parent and Toddler Groups
Joining a local Parent and Toddler Group is a lovely way for your preschooler to mix with children their own age, and for you to meet other local parents. There are groups meeting weekly right across Waterford.
Attractions in Waterford
A weekday spent out and about with a preschooler has one big perk — you can visit popular attractions at off-peak times, when older children are at school and things are much quieter.
A few places in Waterford worth a visit with your preschooler:
- Splashworld in Tramore runs a parent and toddler hour, with children aged 2 and under going free (a swim nappy is required).
- Copper Coast Mini Farm in Ballyadam, near Tramore, is a family-run pet farm with an indoor pet area, sandpits and other fun activities.
- For your train-mad preschooler, a ride on the Waterford and Suir Valley Railway is a must. Wrap up warmly if you end up in an outdoor carriage — there are indoor carriages too.
You may also enjoy – Our Pick of What’s On This Month
Events for Preschoolers in Waterford
Keep an eye on our events pages, where you’ll find regular workshops and events for younger children in the city’s museums, parks and more.
Take a Little Walk
Sometimes the simplest plan is the best one — get out for a walk together. Check out our guides to the Best Outdoor Spots for Families in Waterford and Great Beaches in Waterford for inspiration.
You might also enjoy our ideas for entertaining preschoolers at home for those rainy days when you don’t fancy heading out.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are some free or low-cost things to do with preschoolers in Waterford?
Playgrounds, library storytime sessions and a walk at one of Waterford’s outdoor spots or beaches are all free or very low cost, and are easy to fit around nap times.
Are there indoor activities for toddlers in Waterford on rainy days?
Yes — soft play centres, library storytime, swim classes and toddler-friendly classes like music and movement sessions are all good indoor options when the weather isn’t playing ball.
What’s a good way to meet other parents of preschoolers in Waterford?
Joining a local Parent and Toddler Group or signing up for a toddler class (music, swimming, dance and so on) are both great ways to meet other local families.
Where can I find out about events for preschoolers in Waterford?
Our events pages list upcoming workshops and family events happening in and around Waterford.
Related Articles
- The Best Playgrounds in Ireland Recommended by Parents
- Best Outdoor Spots for Families in Waterford
- Great Waterford Beaches for Families
- Entertaining Preschoolers at Home
- Our Pick of What’s On This Month
Save These Ideas for Later
Not ready to head out today? Bookmark this page or save your favourite ideas so you’ve always got a plan ready for the next free morning with your preschooler.
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Have you got a favourite thing to do with your preschooler or toddler in Waterford? Share it with us in the comments below.
