Under 5s

We’ve got plenty on offer to keep you and your under 5 occupied.

From walks in the park or bouncing in our soft play sessions to storytime at the library or laughing along with our family panto.

Derby Parks

A lot of our parks have play areas, nature walks and are great places to enjoy the outdoors as a family. The Mundy Play Area at Markeaton Park is a favourite with a lot of families, with rides, the pirate ships play area and paddling pool. There is also new buggy friendly pathways that take you all around the park. Look out for events in our parks throughout the year from pond dipping, nature walks, Family Festivities to our summer Superhero picnics! 

Visit our Parks pages to find out more and plan your visit. 

Derby Active

Be active with your under 5 year old in our leisure facilities.  Enjoy splashing in our Parent and child swim sessions at Queen’s Leisure Centre, or why not start your child’s journey on leaning to swim in our Duckling sessions.  Climb and play in our Bouncy Castle and Soft play sessions at Springwood Leisure Centre or why not come along to our Pre-school Gymnastic sessions. 

For programme information visit our coaching courses page.

Derby Libraries

Children of all ages are welcome in our libraries, even the youngest babies can have their own library ticket. There are board books, picture books, story books, audio books and ebooks to choose from. Bookstart is a national scheme giving free books to pre-school children.

See our Library clubs and activities pages for information about Cradle Club, Shake, Rattle and Rhymetime sessions.  

Derby LIVE

Your child's first visit to the theatre is a magical time. We have a range of family shows at the Guildhall Theatre throughout the year.  There is also fun for the whole family in our annual pantomime at Derby Arena.

See our What's On page for the current programme.