New Year, New Adventures: Children’s Events to Kick Off January

WHAT'S ONTRAVEL

1/1/20262 min read

silhouette of three performers on stage
silhouette of three performers on stage

As the sparkle of the holidays begins to fade and the fresh promise of a new year takes hold, January is the perfect time to dive into family-friendly activities that inspire, delight and reset the week. From immersive exhibitions and interactive theatre to music-filled classes and early months for development-led fun, there’s plenty happening to help children shake off the winter blues and make the most of new possibilities. Here are ten events across London and nearby for the month of January — each one crafted to spark curiosity and bring the family together after the festive rush.

  1. Our Story with David Attenborough – 360° Experience
    An awe-inspiring cinematic experience where children and adults journey from the dawn of life to the modern age, narrated by Sir David Attenborough and wrapped in immersive visuals.
    Date/Time: Until 7 January 2026 | Age: Minimum 4 years (recommended 8+) | Location: The Natural History Museum, South Kensington, SW7

  2. The Snowman Theatre Show
    The heart-warming stage adaptation of Raymond Briggs’ classic, with live music and festive visuals, continuing into January.
    Date/Time: Through to 4 January 2026 | Age: All ages | Location: Peacock Theatre, WC2A

  3. Bluey’s Big Play
    Join the Heeler family in a joyful, puppetry-filled show packed with adventure and fun, ideal for young Bluey fans.
    Date/Time: From 18 December through to 11 January 2026 | Age: All ages | Location: Royal Festival Hall, Southbank Centre, SE1

  4. Mini Mozart Music Class – Weekly Sessions
    Introduce little ones to melody, rhythm and sound in an interactive music class designed for babies and toddlers, offering a joyful start to any January afternoon.
    Date/Time: Weekly in January | Age: 0–5 years | Location: Multiple London locations

  5. Sensory Baby Play at Maggie & Rose
    Gentle, sensory-led play sessions for babies, combining music, textures and movement to support early development in the quieter winter weeks.
    Date/Time: Weekly in January | Age: 0–18 months | Location: Maggie & Rose, Chiswick

  6. Little Creatives Art Class at The Little House
    A hands-on art workshop where children explore painting, collage and print-making — an excellent creative boost as the new year begins.
    Date/Time: Weekly in January | Age: 2–6 years | Location: The Little House, Balham

  7. Little Gym Adventure Class
    A high-energy physical play session designed for little ones to climb, jump and develop coordination — great after the winter break.
    Date/Time: Throughout January | Age: 1–5 years | Location: The Little Gym, Hampstead

  8. Family Theatre: Stick Man
    A stage adaptation of Julia Donaldson’s beloved story, full of puppetry and music, continuing into the new year and ideal for a chilly January outing.
    Date/Time: Through to 4 January 2026 | Age: 3+ years | Location: Bloomsbury Theatre, WC1H

  9. Little Scientists Workshop at Mini Engineers
    Interactive science and engineering sessions where children conduct experiments and challenges that fire curiosity and creativity.
    Date/Time: Weekends in January | Age: 4–10 years | Location: Mini Engineers, Fulham

  10. Toddler-Friendly Theatre: Additional Shows
    A variety of toddler-friendly theatre performances including gentle storytelling, puppetry and drama — perfect for younger children looking for a calm start to the new year.
    Date/Time: Various throughout January | Age: 1–4 years | Location: Various London theatres