Business Details
14 Years
experience
Trusted Childcare Services in Carstairs & Carluke
Founded in 2012, The Playbarn provides premium-quality childcare services across Lanark and Carluke, offering flexible before/after school and holiday care for children aged P1-S2. Our Playwork-centred approach prioritises safety, creativity, and individual development through diverse indoor and outdoor activities. With centres in Carstairs Junction and Braidwood, we cater to diverse family needs, including shift patterns and sibling discounts, while maintaining transparent communication with parents.Our experienced team ensures children engage in stimulating play, educational opportunities, and themed events, fostering confidence and joy. We actively address parental concerns by combining structured routines with adaptability, ensuring peace of mind for families. Over a decade of operation has solidified our reputation for reliability, affordability, and exceptional staff dedication, as evidenced by consistent positive feedback from the community.
Services
Before School Care
After School Care
Holiday Clubs
Homework Help
Arts & Crafts
Outdoor Play
ICT Access
Themed Activities
Transport Services
Flexible Booking
Details
- Year established: 2012
Highlights and features
- We offer a Playwork-centred approach to childcare.
- Our flexible hours accommodate shift-working families.
- We provide sibling discounts and transparent pricing.
- Our staff maintain consistent positive feedback from parents.
- We operate two accessible locations in Lanarkshire.
What people say
Excellent value for money
Staff are very friendly
Loads for them to do
Great set up
Brilliant staff
Services
Before School Care
Our before school care service provides a safe, stimulating environment for children aged P1-S2 from 7am daily. We offer breakfast snacks, structured play activities, and transportation assistance to local schools. The relaxed atmosphere helps children transition smoothly into their school day while giving parents flexibility for early shifts.
Holiday Clubs
During school holidays, our full-day clubs run from 7am-7pm with themed activities, educational trips, and outdoor adventures. Children participate in creative projects, sports, and group challenges while maintaining the Playbarn's child-led approach. The programme includes affordable outings and flexible booking options for working families.
Outdoor Play
Our secure outdoor spaces feature jungle gyms, sports facilities, and natural play areas for physical development. Children engage in supervised games, gardening projects, and fresh-air activities that promote teamwork and motor skills. The equipment caters to all ages, with designated zones for different play styles and energy levels.
Arts & Crafts
Dedicated art sessions allow children to explore painting, construction, and craft projects using high-quality materials. Our staff facilitate skill-building activities while encouraging free expression. Completed works are celebrated in our gallery space, and take-home creations provide tangible memories of their Playbarn experiences.
Homework Help
We provide quiet study spaces and staff assistance for children needing help with schoolwork. The Chill Out Room offers laptops, reference materials, and structured support for completing assignments. This service balances academic reinforcement with the flexibility to transition into recreational activities as needed.
Questions
What age groups do you cater for?
We accept children aged P1-S2 (approximately 5-12 years old) across both our Lanark and Carluke locations.
Do you offer flexible booking options?
Yes, we provide term-time care, holiday clubs, and ad-hoc bookings with options for full or half-day attendance.
Are meals/snacks provided?
We offer healthy breakfast snacks in the morning and after-school tea, with special dietary requirements accommodated upon request.
How do you ensure child safety?
Our staff-to-child ratios exceed regulatory standards, with secure premises featuring controlled access and constant supervision during activities.
Can you collect children from school?
We provide transport services to 23 primary schools across Lanark and Carluke communities with designated collection and drop-off points.
What happens during bad weather?
Our indoor facilities remain fully operational during poor weather, with alternative activities planned to maintain engagement and safety.
Reviews (5)
Dave Asprey
Nov 29, 2021
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Little Gem ,great outside area with tractors cars & bikes ,beach hut for sand play ,small cafe , admission a bit steep 9 Adult & 1 child .
Clive Williams
Oct 22, 2021
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Been a while since our last visit. Seems to be a bit run down. A few new additions to the outside but would have thought during lockdown touch up and repairs could have taken place. However the kids enjoyed it and the home made cakes so that's all that counts.
Diane James
Oct 20, 2021
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Things had changed since I went last time. Not enough balls in the soft play area and only getting half an hour in soft climbing area but children still enjoyed it
Andy Bainger
Oct 17, 2021
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Never been before. First impressions were okay, quiet, which in some cases is a good thing. Nice big play houses for the kids went down well. Animals abit lacking but overall decent value for money.
Laura Parker
Sep 19, 2021
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Fantastic place for children, took my almost 2 year old here and she had so much fun and wouldnt of left if she had her way! Lots to explore, animals, toys, different areas. They cater for all allergies and food intolerances. I took a sandwich for my daughter despite the fact it said no outside food thinking I wouldnt be able to find something for her to eat as she is lactose intolerant, but I was really pleasantly surprised to find they had kids of options of food she could eat, she had a lovely diary free cake too!
