22 month old never had a playdate

[Lozzak21]

He was a lockdown baby and then I fell pregnant so was being careful and I my 2nd son was born in December.

My nct group went by the wayside as our maternity was spent in lockdown then back to work.

I take ds 22 months to the park most days and we live on the beach so lots of fresh air and stimulation that way.

My partner works from home and we have a family visitor once a week.

Now I have a newborn going to toddler classes would be more tricky. Partner thinks he should start preschool purely for socialisation. I'm not sure if he needs it at this age but then feel guilty that he spends no designated time with other children.

Anyone else not do baby classes, preschool or playdate at this age?

I think it's important at that age to start learning how to play and socialise with other children. Doesn't matter whether it's at nursery, childminder, playdates etc.

Learning to play with other children is a vital skill and you should think about how you can help your child with this.

It is possible to go to toddler classes with a newborn - half the people there will be in a similar situation. Sit on the side and the baby will feed/nap while you watch your toddler.

Or, if that seems like hard work, sign them up for a few mornings at a nursery each week. They get to socialise and you get a couple of hours to focus on your baby.