Beyond the practicalities of daily life, parents with young children look for ways to keep busy, learn something and meet other adults. This guide groups the kinds of activities that the old directory listed for Frankfurt and its surroundings. It does not list schedules, fees or addresses, which change often, so contact organisers directly for current details.
Playgroups and regular meet-ups
The largest category. English-speaking playgroups meet weekly in church halls, community rooms and park play areas in Frankfurt, Hofheim, Oberursel, Wiesbaden, Mainz and Darmstadt. Some run for babies, others for toddlers, and some include a parent-only coffee break. See the dedicated playgroups page.
Baby yoga and massage
Mother-and-baby yoga sessions and baby massage courses appear in the directory, along with fitness classes that welcome babies and pre- and post-natal exercise. Several health-and-family centres also run pre-natal courses and first-aid training for parents.
Music, dance and story time
Music classes for babies and toddlers include the international “Music Together” programme, English-language singing and rhyme sessions, and toddler music courses. Dance and movement classes, called Turnen in German, are common in local sports clubs. Story hours in English let children hear the language while parents chat.
Creative and theatre activities
Art and craft studios, children’s theatre and drama or language studios for older children fall under this heading. Some English-language drama is aimed at teenagers.
Swimming lessons
Public indoor pools in Frankfurt, such as Hallenbad Höchst, Rebstockbad and Panoramabad Bornheim, offer courses, and independent swimming schools exist as well. Lessons for babies and older children are available, but demand can be high.
Language and integration courses
Adult-education centres known as Volkshochschulen run German courses across the Taunus and Wetterau districts, and specialist organisations offer integration courses for newcomers. These courses are valuable for parents who want to manage the paperwork on their own.
Support groups
Breastfeeding support, networks for expatriate women and services for families coping with bereavement are listed here. Many welcome members by simply attending a meeting.
Tips for choosing a group
- Ask about language, age range and drop-in rules.
- Visit once before committing to a block of sessions.
- Check how the group handles safety, such as supervision and allergies.
- Join local online parent groups for the latest changes.
For rainy-day ideas, read the guide to things to do.