If you’ve been searching the terms “toddlers”, “playgroups” and “Düsseldorf”, you might have already stumbled upon Jackie Mitchell’s post offering you an introduction guide for expats with children in Düsseldorf. One of her toddler playgroups suggestions was Tales for Tots, an English reading/singing group for babies and toddlers at the International English Library in Düsseldorf.
So, Düsseldorf Expat Assistant, Elisa Stella decided to go all out and explore exactly what the International English Library offers not just for babies and toddlers, but children of all ages… and then her explorations led her to write an info-packed list of other children’s playgroups in Dusseldorf so that you can save time on Google and spend more time enjoying the city.
Here is Elisa’s list of playgroups in Dusseldorf that are perfect for your family:
International English Library Playgroups
English is an international language, so it’s always nice to find children initiatives that promote the practice of English and – at the same time – welcome those who are not native German speakers.
In Düsseldorf, I experienced a pleasant and warm atmosphere at the International English Library (Kasernenstrasse 6 – metro station Heinrich Heine), which offers the following playgroups:
- Tales for Tots: Held on Monday mornings at 11:30 am and the 1st Saturday of each month at 11:00 am. It is a playgroup for children aged 12-36 months where they read stories and sing songs (in English). Of course, caregivers must be in attendance as well and the events are free. Call Mel if you need more information: 0173 8172146
- Preschool Storytime: On Tuesdays at 4:30 pm, the library offers storytime for kids aged around 3-5 years (a bit older is also fine).
You can check out all their events (including yoga classes and adult book clubs) on their website.
Consider German “Spielgruppen”
We know it’s not easy, but a little German integration might be a fun way to get your bearings around Düsseldorf. There are plenty of courses and playgroups around every corner. Some of the common activities include baby-swimming, baby-massage, parents & child sports, PEKIP (focused on stimulating sensorial development and bonding techniques), and many others. They can be quite affordable, it’s just up to you to pick your favorite one.
- 9 sessions PEKIP for 65.90 Euro at EFA
- 8 sessions for 56,70 Euro at AWO
- 23 sessions for 105 Euro at DRK
Trial-sessions give you a grasp as to how these activities might be beneficial for you and your child. EFA, for instance, takes part in the program “Elternstart NRW”, which includes 5 sessions for free for parents with one child, younger than 1 year of age.
To top it all off, here are a couple more suggestions from Jackie Mitchell, expat and founder of the Facebook group Dusseldorf Toddler Play Group.
Get the Düsseldorf Family Card for FREE and explore
The Düsseldorf Family Card is a free discount card that you can apply for from the city. The only thing you need to qualify for the card is a Düsseldorf address and at least one child under the age of 18. They may not offer discounts on local playgroups, but they do offer some amazing discounts for local events, zoos, indoor play parks, and much more!
TIP: If you don’t find what your looking for from this free discount card, Groupon also offers a ton of awesome discounts in the city for children’s activities!
Go to one of our amazing Kindercafés
Düsseldorf is home to some fantastic Kindercafés which open their doors to the public during certain hours of each day. Here, you will have the opportunity to meet other parents, let your kiddies play with other children, and also order some food and drinks so you can sit back and relax while your little ones keep busy.
Consider hiring a babysitter
If you’re simply looking for ways to keep your little one busy while you get a bit of work done, you can also consider hiring a babysitter who may also watch a few other children at the same time. We are fully aware that finding childcare in Düsseldorf can be a nightmare.
If you don’t mind meeting new children and getting out and about in the city, we also have 40 more recommendations on where to go with your toddlers when it’s raining outside!
Elisa also recommends picking up a copy of Libelle or Kidsgo, both leading family magazines free in Düsseldorf. They provide an overview of all available children’s activities (in German).
