Staying for 3-6 months in Kyoto

Hi all!

My wife and I are planning to stay in Kyoto between 3 and 6 months next year from July. We are both 38 years old, have 2 kids in the age 1.5 and 3 years. We both have lived in Japan before 2004-2005 and from 2014- 2016 (Hiroshima and Tokyo) and we can manage with the language. This time we would like to spend time with our kids in Japan and give them the opportunity to learn new things and have new experiences.

We are looking for some advice though. We decided on Kyoto because it's relatively central between the two places where we lived and have friends and family that we will want to visit. But perhaps we should consider another city.

To list my questions:

1. We are looking for neighbourhoods that are family friendly. To rent a house for the duration of our visit. Where to go?
2. We don't like to drive so good access to public transport is a must.
3. Is it possible to enroll our kids for 1 or 2 days in daycare?
4. We are both interested in arts and crafts. Are there areas in or outside Kyoto that we can easily go to to learn and do this?
5. Is it possible/easy to find a 1 or 2 day in the week apprenticeship in a (kaiseki) restaurant?

Thanks in advance,