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Top Five Shows for the even littler little ones 2026

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The number of children’s shows at Edinburgh festival seems to be ever increasing, with even more opportunities to introduce even the littlest of little ones to the joys of live theatre and interactive productions…shows catered to very young audiences can be some of the most memorable, with beautiful colourful sets, costumes, interactive moments and lots of creativity !

Here are our top five picks for this year for those under five…

Float – This is an intriguing idea from Starcatchers who make beautiful things for small people and one that could work really well for those folk with babies aged 0-12 months – a longer interactive performance which you can come and go from as you need/feel – Float invites you to relax with your baby and enjoy a gently interactive performance inspired by the healing powers of water. You and your baby are free to explore, engage with the performers or unwind in Float’s tranquil space. Float is a three-hour durational performance designed to relieve the pressure of time. Your ticket allows you to come and go during this time to suit the needs of you and your baby. Age 0-12 months

FoRT – Exploring the joy of building forts and making imaginative spaces, this looks super cute and creative for wee ones. FoRT: A multi award-winning show inspired by the timeless craft of turning living rooms upside down. Watch and be amazed as everyday objects transform into fantastical places to play and explore using ridiculous clowning, spectacular acrobatics and beautiful visual imagery. This is an inspiring and delightful new theatrical experience that you and the whole family will enjoy. Age 3 years +

Hello Beach – Our mini-reviewer enjoyed Hello Birds last year, so we’re looking forward to this production and seeing Bran and Tor again…. Following the hugely successful Hello Birds in 2025, Bran and Tor are back and joined by new friend Piper for a day out at the beach. Who will we meet on our seaside picnic? An interactive multi-sensory storytelling show for 0-2 years, featuring puppetry, singing and key-word signing.  Age 0-2 years

Tweedy’s Massive Solo Show – We loved Tweedy two years ago and are very excited for this new solo show !! Following the success of Tweedy’s Massive Circus, Tweedy the Clown makes his festival debut with this joyful solo show for all ages. Tweedy finds himself battling mischievous props in a series of increasingly absurd situations, but however chaotic things become Tweedy can always find a creative way to get out…Age 0+

Splash Test Dummies – We LOVE the Dummies !!!! And are super happy this splashtastic show is back…Rub-a-dub-dub, The Dummies are back with their ‘splashingly awesome adventure’ (EdinburghFestivalsForKids.com) set to drown you in tears of laughter. Splash Test Dummies are here, ready to roll out their beach towels and spring into an hour of circus-filled hilarity for the whole family. See a brilliant array of catch-your-breath stunt work, acrobatics, juggling and the side-splitting, slapstick comedy for which the dummies are famous. Age 0+

We also have firm favourites returning from last year that we’d love to give a special shout out to :

Shows for the even littler little ones….top five

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Once again, the selection of wild and wonderful shows for children at the festival this year includes many aimed at the even younger little ones ! We are so lucky to be able to introduce the wee ones to the sights, colours and sounds of the Fringe in these gentle and accessible productions.

I’ve narrowed down my top picks to the following five shows, but if you have an even littler little one, there are lots more shows and events out there to explore during the Fringe – I’d be keen to hear what you think !

MamaBabaMe – Starcatchers create beautiful shows for younger children, and MamaBabaMe looks to be something special for the under threes. Part of the Made in Scotland showcase this looks gorgeous and as it’s only on for two weeks, worth getting a ticket early. The audience sits within the set around a mini arena with soft boundary edges from which to enjoy the performance. With the soothing sounds of live cello and intimate lighting and set design, MamaBabaMe explores the profound connection between parent and child and how this eternal bond evolves and grows.  1st – 17th August (not 6th or 13th)

Four Go Wild In Wellies – Another from the Made In Scotland showcase is this fun sounding, playful adventure featuring tents, bobble hats and of course lots of wellies !! A show for audiences aged three to five years from Indepen-dance 4, Scotland’s inclusive professional dance company.  3rd – 26th August (not 6th/13th/20th )

 

BambinO – Returning from a very successful sold out run last year – Katch took her little one and really enjoyed it (read all about it here ). Scottish Opera introduce wee ones age 6 -18 months to the world of opera – at an age when their minds are wide open to new sounds, images and experiences. Babies are free to explore during the performance, interacting with singers, musicians and each other. Catch it while you can as it’s sure to sell out again especially with its limited run !  7th – 19th August ( not 13th )

 

Paddington Bear’s First Concert – Join Paddington Bear on his adventures as he leaves home, meets his new family and enjoys his first concert – not without causing his fair share of mayhem, of course! The charming tales of everyone’s favourite bear come to life with storytelling, narration and a live orchestra.        1st – 26th August (not 13th) 

 

Shhh….The Elves Are Very Shy – Ipdip Theatre return to the Botanics with another creative tale suitable for very young audiences. The elves are very shy and elfologist Dr Faye Greenwood is here to tell us why – and how you can help. Can her two tiny friends be encouraged to come out and say hi? And can you spot the evidence of elf activity all around us? A small scale show for the smallest of audience members and their families. Multi-sensory, musical and magical.  5th – 26th August (not 6th/13th/20th )