As I look forward to my first Fringe with a crawling—nearly toddling—baby, I’ve been scouring the Fringe guide for what’s out there for those of us trying to introduce the festival to our wee plus ones (and hopefully absorb some art and culture ourselves).
Firstly, I found the Fringe guide a little unwieldy when searching for this category. However, there was a trick I’d missed: if you go to children’s shows and then select ‘more filters’, you can search by age categories (0+, 3+, or 5+). A lot of children’s shows aren’t suitable for the baby and toddler crowd, so this filter allows you to easily find the 0+ options.
Additionally, even within this category, there are a number of shows listed in the guide as suitable for 0+ that do not sound realistically accessible to those with a mobile baby under three—unless you have a rare one that is willing to sit still for 45 minutes to an hour. So, I’ve focused mainly on those that promise movement and interactive elements. If your baby is under 12 months or over 2, you’ll find some extra picks at the end.
There are a plethora of bubble-related shows at the Fringe, but this one sounds particularly baby and toddler friendly, promising a mix of not just bubbles but puppetry and clowning.
An offering of a new preschool theatre and puppetry show from a returning company. With dragons often being a huge hit, this looks creative and joyful.
Returning for its fourth year, this show promises to offer interactive songs and dance. For me, this seems like one of the more exciting and innovative shows in the children’s lineup—Flamenco feels like a unique but strong premise for a children’s show.
Returning for a second year, this is a sensory story about birds for ages 0–36 months using puppetry, singing, and keyword signing—all elements that reassure me my wee one will stay engaged.
If you feel the beach may be more your baby’s style, this company is also bringing a new show to the Fringe this year called Hello Beach, aimed at a slightly younger age range (0–2 years).
Monski Mouse’s Baby Disco Dance Hall
If you are looking for something for high-energy toddlers that is bound to be a hit, I know many families that have returned year after year to this Baby Disco. Described as featuring “retro beats and thumping nursery rhymes,” it’s a regular sell-out, so it’s worth getting your tickets quickly.
Tenement Jazz Band: Interactive Live Jazz for Kid
Parents who love live music and are feeling deprived of a gig may enjoy this show, as it gives you the opportunity to escape the nursery rhymes while giving your child access to live music all in one.
Another music option is this close-up classical musical experience featuring a professional violinist and cellist. Children are given the opportunity to play along with instruments provided. They also have an animal-themed show, The Lion and the Mouse.
A free show aimed at 0–3 year olds, this sounds wonderfully interactive but also calming. A blend of puppetry, sensory theatre, and storytelling inspired by nature where children are free to crawl and explore, this sounds perfect for mobile babies.
Under 12 months only
An immersive sensory experience of calm, away from the overwhelm of parenthood and the festival.
A show from the same company as Dragon Tales mentioned above—this is a theatre and puppetry show specifically aimed at the under-12-months crowd.
Over 2s
A Picture Book Musical: Milly’s Musical Adventure
Offering coloring-in sheets and stickers, this musical has a charming premise centered around the discovery of a magical storybook.
Vasthy and Friends: Sing, Dance, Play!
Another interactive musical – this one was created by a Broadway performer. Although billed as suitable for all ages, the length of this show (1 hour) means it may be best suited for a slightly older audience.
