How do I Meet Other Mums with Toddlers in Dubai?
There’s not one answer, there is many. Time to get out there and explore!
How to find social play-groups for toddlers in Dubai?
In a city so big, it’s a good question. Let’s figure it out together, shall we?
Moving through the toddler years in Dubai often means juggling feeding time, naptime, soft play visits and everything in between…and sometimes, it can be easy to fall into the habit of doing it all alone! Luckily, in Dubai, there are so many ways to connect with other mums in the same boat as you. And there’s many more affordable and free options than you might initially think!
3 Tips to Connect with other Parents with Toddlers in Dubai:
Explore Your Local Parks
In Dubai, we are blessed to have access to so many parks that are beautifully outfitted and maintained. All across the city, there are parks like Safa Park, Al Barsha Pond Park, Creek Park and even Al Barari to explore! Take a walk, play in the grass, explore play-grounds and take a picnic blanket to enjoy your snack outside. These parks are usually free to enter or set at a very low cost, which makes for an easy-going morning with your little one where you can chat with your friends freely. You might be surprised to see how many other mums are there seeking some outdoor time too!
2. Join Local Mum & Baby Groups
There are many playgroups around Dubai geared toward parents with toddlers, in fact, we even run our own! These groups often join together in local parks, soft-plays and even in nursery schools. They provide a chance not just to socialise, but also to share advice, swap stories (both the good and the bad!) and simply know that you’re not alone in the chaos of toddler-hood.
At Kid’s Island Nursery, every Thursday from 8:30am to 10:30am, we open our doors to the community for our Stay & Play session! And on Monday’s we have a newly introduced Messy Monday Stay & Play session. It’s designed for children who can crawl, up to 4 years old, but there’s no agenda or pressure behind it. It’s just pure uninterrupted play in our nature-rich, nurturing spaces. You’re welcome to bring snacks and water, and you’ll find a community of likeminded mums and dads to chat the morning away with. Many families have made us part of their weekly routine and for that, we are incredibly grateful!
3. Take Part in Sensory Groups
Many companies offer baby-focused or toddler-focused sessions, led by professionals who able to bring fun, movement and sensory exploration to a group for a reasonable price. Companies like Rainbow Child and The Child Unplugged are an example of organised, weekly groups that offer a chance for mums, dads and their babies to come together and make memories!
The Benefits of a Parenting Community
Joining mum groups or attending regular sessions isn’t just about making new friends, though that is a huge bonus. These settings support mental well-being as a mum, while also getting you out the house, socialising and bonding with your little one. The beauty is that your child will only benefit from this, as a happy parent means a happy baby!
Spending time at Stay and Play, attending sensory groups or simply going to the park is endlessly beneficial for children’s development; children are able to explore, discover and play in child-led learning spaces that cater to their individual needs. Over time, these new connections build the feeling of being part of a village, ultimately giving your family that sense of belonging and comfort.
If you are looking for connection with like-minded parents, are looking to find more friends for your toddler, or would like to spend quality time with your little one in an inspiring environment, consider booking one of our weekly mum & baby group sessions at Kid’s Island Nursery.