Discover baby and toddler groups in Southbourne and Tuckton, from welcoming stay-and-play sessions and nursery rhymes to creative activities, storytelling and opportunities to meet other local parents. Whether you're looking for free library sessions, affordable church-run playgroups or somewhere for your little one to make friends, there are plenty of options for babies, toddlers and preschool children. Our guide brings together regular groups, with practical information on ages, session times, costs and booking arrangements.
3rd November 2026
Finding activities for babies and toddlers can be a wonderful way to introduce little ones to new experiences while connecting with other local families.
Southbourne and Tuckton have a welcoming selection of parent-and-child groups, offering everything from relaxed play sessions and creative crafts to nursery rhymes, singing and storytelling.
Many activities are free or available for a small charge, making them accessible options for families looking to fill their weekly diaries without spending a fortune.
Whether you're a new parent hoping to meet others in the area, a grandparent looking for an activity with your grandchild or a family searching for something different, we've brought together some of the regular baby and toddler groups worth exploring.
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Best for: Babies and children under four
When: Mondays and Thursdays, 9.30am - 11am, during school term time
Cost: £2.50 per session for one or two children, plus 50p for each additional child
Location: Immanuel Church, Southbourne Road, Southbourne, BH6 3QJ
Penguins is a friendly stay-and-play group at Immanuel Church, offering a welcoming space for younger children and their parents or carers.
Sessions include toys, crafts, snacks and singing, giving little ones opportunities to develop their confidence, explore new activities and enjoy playing alongside other children.
The group is particularly appealing for parents and carers looking to meet other families in a relaxed environment.
No advance booking is currently required, although families attending for the first time will be asked to complete an emergency contact form.
With two weekly sessions during term time, Penguins provides a convenient option for families looking for regular activities.
Contact: 01202 424994
Website: Click Here
Best for: Babies, toddlers and preschool children
When: Thursdays, 3pm - 4.30pm
Cost: £1 per family
Location: Citygate Southbourne, Tuckton Road, BH6 3HT
Little Acorns is a welcoming parent-and-toddler group at Citygate Southbourne, providing a relaxed environment where young children can play, learn and develop their social skills.
The group welcomes babies and preschool-aged children, with activities including singing, crafts and playtime.
Parents and carers can also enjoy a cup of tea or coffee while meeting other families from the surrounding community.
The sessions aim to support children's social and emotional development while offering adults an opportunity to build friendships and feel connected to the local area.
No advance booking is required, making it a convenient option for families looking for a regular afternoon activity.
Contact: kids@citygate.church
Website: Click Here
Best for: Babies and children up to school starting age
When: Mondays and Wednesdays, 9.30am - 11.30am, during school term time
Cost: Contact the organiser for current charges
Location: St Christopher's Church, Arnewood Road, Southbourne, BH6 5DW
St Christopher's Church runs popular Funtime sessions designed to provide a friendly and supportive environment for families with young children.
The sessions include toys, crafts, songs and stories, alongside opportunities for children to explore and play with others.
Parents, grandparents and carers are all welcome, with the group offering a chance to meet local families, share experiences and enjoy a relaxed morning together.
Refreshments have also been part of the sessions, helping create a welcoming atmosphere for adults.
Booking is essential. The organiser's current listing advises that the group is very popular and has a waiting list.
Families interested in attending should contact the organiser before visiting to check availability and current fees.
Contact: 07857 515709
Email: children.families@saint-christophers.org.uk
Website: Click Here
Southbourne and Tuckton libraries provide some excellent free activities for families with younger children.
These sessions are particularly useful for introducing babies and toddlers to nursery rhymes, stories, music and early learning through play.
Best for: Babies and young toddlers, particularly under two
When: Mondays, 10am - 10.30am, with an additional 11am - 11.30am session during term time
Cost: Free
Location: Pokesdown and Southbourne Library, Seabourne Road, BH5 2HY
Wriggle and Rhyme is a lively and interactive library session designed to introduce babies and toddlers to the enjoyment of music, movement and language.
Children can join in with familiar nursery rhymes, action songs and musical instruments, while parents and carers participate alongside them.
The sessions use singing, rhythm and play to encourage early communication and development.
They're also a lovely opportunity to meet other parents in a relaxed setting.
No booking is normally required.
Contact: 01202 127555
Website: Click Here
Best for: Babies, toddlers and children under five
When: Fridays, 9.30am - 11.30am
Cost: Free
Location: Pokesdown and Southbourne Library, Seabourne Road, BH5 2HY
For families looking for something less structured, Stay and Play offers a relaxed opportunity for younger children to explore toys and enjoy playing alongside others.
Sessions use toys provided through local toy libraries or community donations, creating opportunities for imaginative play, sharing and social interaction.
Parents and carers can enjoy meeting other adults while children explore the available activities.
Families do not need to attend for the entire session, making this a particularly convenient option for those working around naps, feeding times and other daily routines.
The session is primarily aimed at children under five, although the library welcomes families with children of different ages.
Contact: 01202 127555
Website: Click Here
Best for: Babies and toddlers under two
When: Fridays and Saturdays, 10am - 10.30am
Cost: Free
Location: Tuckton Library, Wick Lane, BH6 4LF
Tuckton Library also hosts Wriggle and Rhyme sessions, providing another convenient opportunity for families to enjoy nursery rhymes, singing and interactive play.
These free, half-hour activities introduce babies and young toddlers to music and rhythm through action songs, musical instruments and shared books.
The relaxed setting makes them particularly appealing for parents and carers looking for a simple, affordable activity close to home.
No advance booking is normally required.
Tuckton Library is situated close to the River Stour, making it easy to combine a library visit with a gentle walk or a trip to the nearby playground.
Contact: 01202 127654
Website: Click Here
Best for: Children under five
When: Tuesdays, 10am - 10.30am
Cost: Free
Location: Tuckton Library, Wick Lane, BH6 4LF
Toddler Time at Tuckton Library offers a welcoming introduction to stories, songs and nursery rhymes for younger children.
The free sessions encourage families to enjoy books together, helping children develop an early interest in reading and language.
Activities may include interactive storytelling, singing and simple creative activities linked to children's books.
It's a lovely choice for toddlers who enjoy listening to stories or joining in with familiar rhymes.
BCP Council's general library programme describes Toddler Time as a drop-in activity, but its specific Tuckton listing advises families to book. We therefore recommend contacting the library to confirm arrangements before attending.
Contact: 01202 127654
Website: Click Here
The best group for your family will depend on your child's age, interests and the kind of experience you're looking for.
For babies and very young toddlers, Wriggle and Rhyme is a wonderful starting point, offering short sessions filled with songs, sounds and gentle interaction.
For toddlers who love playing and exploring, Penguins, Little Acorns and Funtime provide opportunities to enjoy toys, crafts and activities alongside other children.
For families on a budget, the local library sessions are particularly appealing because they are free.
For parents and carers hoping to meet other families, stay-and-play groups offer a friendly, informal environment where adults can chat while children enjoy supervised play.
Remember that children develop at different stages, and there's no need to commit to several groups. Even attending one regular session can become an enjoyable part of your weekly routine.
Alongside organised groups, Southbourne has plenty of places where families can enjoy time outdoors together.
Fisherman's Walk offers attractive woodland paths, green spaces and a children's playground close to the clifftop.
Seafield Gardens provides another traditional play area, with swings and open space for younger children.
In Tuckton, Tuckton Gardens combines a riverside playground with scenic paths and Tuckton Tea Gardens, making it a lovely destination for a relaxed family afternoon.
During the warmer months, Southbourne Beach provides opportunities for sand play, picnics and gentle seaside walks.
For more ideas, explore our Family Days Out in Southbourne guide.
Trying a new group can feel unfamiliar, particularly if you're attending with a very young baby or meeting other parents for the first time.
Most groups are designed to be welcoming, and you don't need to know anyone before attending.
A few simple preparations can help make your visit easier:
Check the session time, age guidance and booking requirements in advance.
Bring nappies, wipes, a change of clothes and any feeding essentials.
Ask whether snacks and drinks are provided or whether you should bring your own.
Arrive a little early if you're attending for the first time.
Let your child explore at their own pace without feeling pressured to join every activity.
Stay with your child and follow the group's supervision and safety guidance.
Some groups pause during school holidays, while others continue throughout the year.
For the latest weekly sessions and special activities, check our What's On in Southbourne This Week guide.
From affordable church-run playgroups to free library activities, Southbourne and Tuckton offer plenty of opportunities for babies and toddlers to play, discover and make new friends.
For parents, grandparents and carers, these groups can also provide a valuable chance to connect with others, share experiences and become part of the local community.
Whether you're looking for your first baby group or hoping to introduce your toddler to something new, there's a welcoming selection of activities to explore throughout the week.
Area Covered: Southbourne, Pokesdown and Tuckton, Bournemouth, Dorset.
Age Range: Primarily babies and children aged from birth to five, depending on the group.
Admission: Free library sessions, with modest charges at some community playgroups.
Booking: Varies. St Christopher's Funtime requires advance contact and currently has a waiting list. Some other groups accept drop-ins.
School Holidays: Penguins and Funtime operate during term time. Check individual library and community programmes for holiday changes.
Facilities: Vary by venue. Most groups provide access to toilets, while selected venues offer refreshments, baby-changing facilities or nearby parking.
Further Information: BCP Council Family Information Directory
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