Classes
Messy Play Classes by Little Learners offer a unique, hands-on learning experience for young children. Designed to enhance fine motor skills and early writing abilities, these themed sessions provide a fun, sensory-rich environment. Children explore, create, and learn through engaging activities that promote creativity and cognitive development. Each class is an exciting adventure, fostering a love for learning. Join Little Learners for a joyful and enriching educational journey through play!
What are the benefits of Little Learners classes for babies?
Little Learners was created by a qualified early years primary teacher who designed a ‘messy play’ mark making programme where babies (right up to pre-schoolers) use painting, play dough, scribbling and more to learn early writing skills. Your baby will use hands, fingers, feet and toes to make marks which will benefit their core muscles and develop their gross and fine motor skills.
Are the resources edible?
Although we use resources which are non-toxic, as you most likely know only too well – babies and toddlers attempt to ‘eat’ almost anything! Parent/carer supervision is required for your child just as at home. Please talk to your class leader if you have any concerns (including making them aware of any specific allergies) or to discuss the resources which will be in use in class.
What should my child wear?
Not their very best outfit! Your child will get messy so anything loose, comfortable and easily washed will be great! We also sell branded Little Learners t-shirts and hoodies – let your class leader know you’re interested or alternatively your can purchase at our online shop.
What age are the classes suitable for?
Classes are designed for babies from 5 months up to 5 years
Can I bring my baby if under 5 months?
We recommend babies participating should be 5 months+ (Little Learners ‘Playspace’ accommodates 0-7 years).
If you wish to simply bring a younger baby along with an older sibling who is attending, please speak to your local class leader to find out if this is possible. We also run special ‘Mini Mark Makers’ sessions for babies under 9 months at select franchises.
Can I bring my 9 year old?
We recognise there may be occasions when an older sibling may need to attend the class with a younger sibling and parent/carer. Please contact your class leader to find out whether this is possible.
Can I bring grandparents along one week to let them see my child in class?
Check with your class leader, but this is unlikely to be a problem unless the venue is very restricted space-wise.
My child doesn’t like getting messy, will Little Learners classes be ok for them?
Some children dislike the feeling of messy play initially and this is often overcome when they see other children having fun! However, if your child has specific needs with regards to sensory play, noise, light, interactions with other children (or any other!), please do speak to your class leader as we are passionate about inclusivity and we will do what we can to make adaptations so your child can better participate and enjoy the experience. Here at Little Learners we are all about YOUR child. ♥️
My child doesn’t seem to be ‘doing’ anything – everything goes in their mouth! Is this normal?
Completely! Please don’t worry if your child hasn’t yet begun to make marks as such – they will be observing all the time and will surprise you when you’re least expecting it. Also – by picking up tools and resources they are developing their gross and fine motor skills. As at home, distraction techniques work best when a child is fixated on putting tools/resources towards their mouth.
My child can’t sit still for 2 seconds… would this make participation impossible?
Absolutely not. Almost all babies and toddlers like to be on the move as soon as they can! Classes are designed to facilitate movement and variety as much as possible!
How can I convince my child to get more messy?
Your child will interact at their own speed. You can encourage them by interacting with the resources yourself – e.g. lifting up ‘gloop’ and slopping it down accompanied with sound effects. Or letting rice run through your hands on eye-level with your child will be engaging for them.
Bookings
Booking with Little Learners is simple and convenient. Choose from a variety of themed classes designed to enhance early writing skills and creativity through hands-on, sensory play. Whether you’re looking to join a weekly session or book a special event, our online registration process makes it easy to find the perfect fit for your child. Don’t miss out on these enriching and fun educational experiences. Reserve your spot today and watch your child thrive!
How much does a term at Little Learners cost?
This varies depending on location. Please find your nearest class by entering your postcode at HERE and you will be able to see prices via the booking system.
Do you do ‘drop-in’ sessions, or must I commit to a term?
As our classes follow a designed programme, they follow a term format. However, there may be occasions when individual leaders offer drop-ins, subject to availability. This must be booked with the leader in your area before attending however – so check the website link for your area.
Can I get a week back for sickness?
Generally speaking this won’t be possible as the place has been reserved for your child, but speak to your class teacher in case there may be the opportunity to rearrange.
Do you offer a sibling discount?
Yes. Please discuss with your area Little Learners class leader. Only siblings of the child participant qualifies for a discount.
Parties, Events & Private Hire
Parties, events, and private hire with Little Learners bring the fun and educational experience of our classes to your special occasion. Perfect for birthdays, holidays, or any celebration, our themed activities engage children in creative, hands-on play that enhances early writing skills. Tailored to your needs, these events offer a memorable, enjoyable experience for young learners. Book now to provide an exciting and enriching environment that makes every event unforgettable.
The session I have booked is outdoors. Will it be cancelled if the weather is bad?
No, the session will go ahead regardless of the weather (unless extreme e.g. thunderstorms or very high winds)
Does Little Learners work with schools or nurseries?
Yes, lots of our franchisees work with nurseries, schools and other educational providers. Speak to your area class leader for more information.
Do you offer children’s parties?
Yes. Please discuss with the class leader for booking/theme/rates or fill in an enquiry form on our parties page HERE!
Other Frequently Asked Questions…
Other frequently asked questions by Little Learners cover a range of topics to help parents and caregivers make the most of our classes. Common queries include class duration, age suitability, materials provided, and booking procedures. We also address questions about the benefits of messy play, how to prepare for classes, and our health and safety measures. For detailed answers and more information, visit our FAQ section to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience for your child.
Has Little Learners won any awards?
We have – several! They include Highly Commended Best National Franchised Pre-schooler Activity, Best National Baby Activity and Best Party Supplier. We’ve also won awards for our Early Writing Programme – The Mark Makers and also our franchise opportunity. See our full list of awards here.
Where can I buy my child Little Learners clothing?
From your class leader or, alternatively you can order clothing – t-shirts, hoodies, caps, bags here. As well as a range of messy play resources and a range of our favourite educational toys.
Where can I buy The Mark Makers books?
You can buy from your class leader or they may be ordered here
Where can I buy messy play resources such as Crazy Soap Foam?
From your local class leader or you can order here
How can I become a Little Learners teacher?
If you’re interested in owning your own Little Learners business – find out more HERE!
Is Little Learners a member of the British Franchise Association?
Yes, the BFA are the voluntary self-regulatory body in the UK for franchising. We joined the BFA in 2021 as an Expanding Member. This showcases our alignment to the BFA’s code of ethics and our continued commitment to ethical franchising. To find out more about the BFA and Franchising, please click here.
How do I leave a review for Little Learners?
You can leave a review on each franchisee’s Facebook page or via Google.