Baby and Toddler Groups in South Shields

Finding baby and toddler groups as a new parent can feel overwhelming, but South Shields has a good range of options — from free council-run sessions to structured sensory classes and informal church playgroups. Here is a guide to what is available.

South Tyneside Family Hub Sessions

South Tyneside Council's Family Hub programme runs free groups for children aged 0 to 4 across the borough, including sessions in South Shields. These include stay-and-play sessions, baby massage, baby sensory, and parenting workshops. The sessions are run by trained staff and are a great way to meet other local parents.

Family Hub sessions are free and run during term time. Check the South Tyneside Council website or call 0191 424 7400 for the current timetable and locations.

Best for: Free council-run groups for ages 0 to 4 — stay and play, baby massage, sensory sessions, and parenting workshops.

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Ocean Road Community Centre

Ocean Road Community Centre on Ocean Road runs several baby and toddler activities, including Bouncing Bears (12 months to 3 years), Diddikicks toddler football (18 months to 5 years), Boogie Bears, and Teddy Tappers on Saturdays. The community centre is a charity-run hub with a welcoming atmosphere and a good range of activities for young children.

Costs are low and some sessions are free. The community centre also runs activities for older children, so it is a venue you can grow into as your child gets older.

Best for: Bouncing Bears, toddler football, dance, and more — a charity-run community hub on Ocean Road.

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Bloom Baby Classes

Bloom Baby Classes runs multi-award-winning sensory development classes for babies across South Tyneside, including venues in South Shields. The classes use lights, textures, music, and props to stimulate babies' senses and support their development.

Bloom classes are structured, so you progress through a programme rather than dropping in. They are popular and can book up quickly — check the Bloom Baby Classes website for availability and prices.

Best for: Award-winning sensory development classes for babies — lights, textures, music, and props in a structured programme.

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Bertie's Play Group — St Mark and St Cuthbert

Bertie's Play Group is a parent-led baby and toddler group at St Mark and St Cuthbert Church on Quarry Lane. The group meets on Tuesdays from 9.15am to 11.15am and Thursdays from 12.45pm to 2.45pm. It is an informal, welcoming session with free play, snacks, and a chance to chat with other parents.

Church-based playgroups like Bertie's tend to be among the most affordable options — many run on a small donation basis. All are welcome regardless of faith.

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Tiny Tweeties — Mortimer Community College

Tiny Tweeties runs at Mortimer Community College on Tuesdays from 9.45am to 10.30am for children aged 0 to 5. The sessions include singing, music, and play in a school setting. This is a good option for families in the Mortimer area of South Shields.

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The Word — Story Time and Events

The Word on Market Place runs regular free events for babies and toddlers, including story time sessions, rhyme time, and craft activities. The children's area on the ground floor is a welcoming space with books, interactive digital exhibits, and soft play elements suitable for very young children.

The Word is free to visit at any time, making it a useful drop-in destination on days when you do not have a structured group to attend.

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Swimming for Babies

Haven Point on Pier Parade offers parent-and-baby swimming sessions in the 18-metre teaching pool, which is kept at a warmer temperature. There is also a leisure water area with gentle water play features suitable for toddlers. Under-fives swim for 1.10 pounds.

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Finding More Groups

The best resources for finding baby and toddler groups in South Shields are:

• Happity (happity.co.uk) — Searchable listings of baby and toddler classes by area, including South Shields
• South Tyneside Council Family Hub — Free council sessions listed on the council website
• Facebook — Local parent groups such as South Shields Mums often share recommendations and session updates

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For older children, see our guides to after-school clubs, birthday party venues, and summer holiday activities.