The House on the Hill

I've always avoided mother and toddler groups like the plague for fear of being trapped in a room with a load of perfect mums with one dimensional conversation about breastfeeding, nappies, teething etc. There is no fear of that at the House on the Hill playgroup, a sanctuary in the hills above Fasoula for children and parents alike.

I went one Friday with Eleanor who instantly fitted in and demanded to go back the following week. We now go every Tuesday and Friday morning. For Eleanor there is a wide range of toys in a large, light room (a converted tavern) and outside space when it's not too warm. She can play with the toy kitchen and shop, dolls, ride a car, or do dressing up, painting, a puzzle or read a book. She has started forming relationships with the other children and their parents.

For me there's an enforced sit down and a good excuse to avoid domestic duties. This comes with a selection of drinks, fruit, toast and delicious homemade cakes using Annalisa's own chickens' eggs. And conversation has been broader than expected, including Shakespeare, online dating and useful information sharing about hairdressers, restaurants and places to visit.

Annalisa offers a range of sessions throughout the week which you can read about on her website. Occasional extra events like family drumming sessions are offered and Annalisa also makes the venue available for birthday parties.