About the PlayLabs
PlayLab is short for 'laboratory of play' and our classes are all about learning through play!
They are weekly sensory play classes for babies, wobblers and toddlers, running in 7-week terms at venues across Dublin, Cork, Kildare, Meath and Wicklow.
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The PlayLabs are 50 minute classes for Babies, Wobblers, Toddlers and you, their parents and caregivers. There are 7 weeks in a term and they're run in multiple local venues, with new ones being added all the time.
Each class follows the same structure with a variety of rhymes, activities and quality props, building on what we learnt the week before. Everyone gets their own mat and set of quality props — no need to share!
Parents are at the heart of every PlayLab and are actively encouraged to join in. We often hear that ClapHandies is the highlight of the week—and not just for little ones. It's a chance for you to get out of the house, meet other parents and have fun. It's hard to leave the PlayLabs without a smile on your face.
Pick your PlayLab
Baby PlayLab
(6 weeks to 7 months)
Make lasting memories with your new baby in a safe, nurturing environment.
The Baby PlayLabs are the perfect place to take time to play together, learn new skills and meet other parents.
Wobbler PlayLab
(8 months to 16 months)
As your little one grows, their need to explore the world grows too.
The Wobbler PlayLabs are a relaxed, fun space for your little one to satisfy their curiosity, socialise and develop new skills.
Toddler PlayLab
(17 months to 3 1/2 years)
At this age, play becomes a toddler's job and exploration is the name of the game.
The Toddler PlayLabs provide a safe place to explore, learn from others and develop new skills through play.
The Importance of Play
Play isn't just fun — it's essential for development. Through play, little ones learn problem-solving, social skills, creativity, and so much more.
Cognitive & Physical Development
Play builds problem-solving and creativity as little ones explore cause and effect — while movement and sensory play strengthen motor skills and coordination.
Social Skills
Group play teaches sharing, taking turns, and communication — building early friendships along the way.
Getting Ready for Creche or Pre-School
PlayLab gives little ones a gentle first taste of group life — a routine, a leader, and other little ones around them — with their grownup still right there.
Emotional Development & Bonding
Through play, little ones learn to express emotions and build confidence — while shared moments with their grownup deepen the bond between them.
Good for Grownups Too
Play isn't just good for little ones — it's good for you too. It's permission to put the phone down, skip the washing up, and just be silly together for a while.
What Parents Are Saying
Hear from families who've experienced the joy of PlayLabs.
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Based on 1.1K Google reviews
What Makes ClapHandies PlayLabs Special
Every detail is designed to create the perfect learning environment for your little one.
Irish-Owned, Nearly 20 Years Strong
ClapHandies is Irish-owned, with over 16 employees and almost 20 years of experience — not a franchise. Our leaders get continuous training, so you get the same trusted quality every week.
Parents Play Too
Grownups are at the heart of every PlayLab, actively encouraged to join in — not just watch from the side.
Clean Props, No Sharing Required
Every little one gets their own clean, quality props — checked between sessions, with no waiting and no tears over sharing.
Make-Up Classes, So You Don't Miss Out
Sessions run in 7-week terms — and if you miss one, just book onto another PlayLab that week, no bother.
Local Venues, Real Community
With PlayLabs close to home, it's easy to become a regular. Community is at the heart of ClapHandies — many families make lifelong friends here.
Join us next term (or a future term)
Pop your name down and we'll let you know the moment bookings open, so you can join us when you're ready.
Register InterestReady to Play?
Give your little one the joy of play, and yourself a room full of new friends.
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