2005,
I also signed for 1 day trip with my gal to some places outside Tokyo such as Yamanashi, Kanagawa, Chiba Prefectures. Other than that, you may wanna go to Odaiba, or even to Puroland to see Hello Kitty?! I dun see Nepia in most of the dept stores, but you can try, I see more Mamy Poko on the sheleves, you can try to buy from pharmarcy which is cheaper.
As for long flight trips, ask for kiddy packs from the air attendants, playing cards, try to bring along coloring books/her fav dvds so that you can entertain her. Try to make her nap on the flight so that you can have a breather... Bring along enuff snacks to pacify her too!!
SC,
My gal can only take off her diapers when we bathe her, but not dressing ownself, she tries to take off her shoes and socks too. But that's about it!
Sharon,
Welcome! I just sent my gal to half day playgroup this month. I can't give much advice, I guess it all deepnds on your kid, whether she is ready for class. You may consider sending her for some trial classes first so that she can get used to the routines, the teachers and her new friends!
When actual class begin, try to join her for her 1st day and subsequently try to sneak out of the class and leave her to the teacher. If your gal is more clingy to you, try asking your hubby to send her to school, sometimes they won't cry so badly... I let my gal bring along her teddy bear to school, so in case we are not around, and she feels insecure, she still has her teddy bear to comfort her!! I hope my tips can be useful!!