Education

Playgroups offer a safe and caring environment where babies and young children can learn and develop.

Usually run by mums, dads, grand-parents, caregivers, playgroups provide a relaxed meeting point for parents and a safe and stimulating environment for children and toddlers to play, discover and explore. Children learn best at this age when their parents are involved and parent's involvement in playgroup gives them the tools to reinforce at home some of the learnings and activities that have taken place during the playgroup sessions.

Activities at playgroups are in most cases fairly low cost, and normally include:

• Music and singing
• Imaginative play
• Outdoor and free play
• Art and craft activities
• Storytelling

Playgroups can provide the socialization that young children need when learning how to get along with others. These gatherings can also expose them to different activities, making them more willing to try new experiences.

In Madrid there are a number of playgroups ranging from non-profit playgroups such as Sticky Fingers, and Under the Fig tree, to privately run playgroups or KidsandUs in Aravaca.

English playgroups offer Spanish families a unique opportunity for their children to learn English from birth. English playgroups are open to all cultures and backgrounds with the common thread being English. Mother and Teacher, Anne Lennon who also runs the Sticky Fingers playgroups says that "through play children learn with ease and confidence, so if they are exposed to English from a very young age, via songs, crafts, and meeting up with their little friends, it can give them a fine foundation to build on in the future."

Furthermore Playgroups are a great place to meet other parents and carers. If you are new to the city it's a good starting point for making new friends and swap advice whilst your children are busy playing. Playgroups are a chance for parents to enjoy each others’ company and they can offer a unique opportunity to network. Many interesting and fruitful conversations take place around the sandpit!

Playgroups not only be a valuable learning experience but also fun for your child as well as you.

Go to playgroup listings