When can you start going to baby classes? Will a tiny baby enjoy them, or should you wait until they are a bit older?
Whether you’ve got a newborn or a non-stop toddler to entertain, getting out and about has massive benefits for you and your little one. But with so much on offer, the world of baby and toddler classes can also seem overwhelming.
We’ve done the hard work for you, and put together suggestions for each age and stage of your baby’s development in our handy guide. Read on to find a class you and your little one will love.
Looking for fun activities with your baby or toddler?
There are thousands of classes and groups on Happity. Find one you’ll love here.
What’s On For Parents?
Yes, yes, we did say that this is a guide to baby classes. But being a parent doesn’t mean you can’t have fun too! There are tons of activities where you can be entertained or learn a new skill with your baby in tow, especially in the early stages. Check out these Bring Your Baby classes which cover everything from guided walks to pub quizzes and comedy.
When you feel ready for it, a post-natal fitness class like buggy fitness, yoga or Pilates can give you a real boost. Or why not find your nearest parenting support group, where you can get support with things like feeding, or simply have a cuppa and a chat in a safe, nurturing environment.
Best Classes For Babies 0-6 Months
One of the best things about starting a class when your baby is little is that you can make new friendships. Finding a baby class gets you out of the house and helps you meet other parents in your area.
Baby massage is a lovely, gentle introduction to classes, where you’ll use touch to bond with your new baby; and you can follow up with baby yoga. Once your little one begins to take more notice of their surroundings, a music or sensory class can help you get the most out of those early interactions.
You can also start baby swimming lessons from birth – young babies love to be in the water.
Around 4 months I started to notice Clara had more engagement with sensory toys. And friends also said their babies were getting more out of classes at that age, too. So that’s when I started looking.’
– Anastasai, Happity Parent
Best Classes For Babies 6 Months and Up
From around 6 months babies are becoming mobile, starting to explore the world, and making early attempts at language. There are lots of classes that can encourage development at this stage. You might start to notice your baby recognise their favourite songs – maybe joining in with the actions, too – which is always a wonderful moment.
Baby sensory is great for babies of this age – as are Rhyme Times, storytimes and music groups. It’s all about learning through play, music and repetition.
Foster those early communication skills at a baby signing class; or try out your local playgroups and messy play sessions – babies love getting their hands stuck into water and sand, as well as the feel and texture of different materials.
Swimming will help your 6-12 month-old develop their gross motor skills and leg strength.
Best Classes For Toddlers
Entertaining a fully-formed little person who is full of beans (and endless questions) can be fun but exhausting. Let your little one burn off some of that energy at a dance class; or head to your nearest toddler gym. If she loves to kick a ball, toddler football classes are another way to stretch her little legs.
Local toddler groups are a great place to socialise – for both parents and children – and give you an opportunity to take a break while your little one plays. Music classes also come into their own as your toddler starts to sing along, and request their favourites.
If you’re raising a bilingual child, or just want to inspire their interest in languages, have a look at language classes near you. Learn songs, rhymes and games in your second language alongside your toddler, and have lots of fun at the same time.
Best Classes for Pre-Schoolers
Looking for things to do with your pre-schooler?
Forest schools are really popular for fostering a love of nature and independent play: think nature crafts, following trails, den building and animal-themed stories and songs. These often run all year round too, which means your little explorer can enjoy frost, mud, sun and leaves across all the seasons! Gardening clubs are a fun alternative.
For the budding artists, arts and crafts classes will let them explore their creativity without the mess at home.
Your little one may also be into football, tennis, rugby or other sports: have a look here for something to suit them. Or try out dance classes and gymnastics for exercise and confidence boosting fun.
Do I Need To Book?
Whichever class you choose, it’s a good idea to book in advance – this lets the class provider know you’re coming, and makes sure there is a spot for you when you arrive.
Some providers will ask you to book a term or block of sessions at once. This is great for getting to know the other people in your group, as you’ll see the same faces week-to-week.
But if blocks and terms aren’t for you, plenty of other classes accept pay-as-you-go bookings, often right up until the class starts.
If you’re not sure about committing yourself (and funds), ask if the provider offers a trial session so you can see what’s what and gauge your child’s interest before taking the plunge. Happity has search filters for both ‘drop-in’ availability and ‘trial offers’.
Please note the names of Happity parents have been changed to protect their privacy.
Want To Get Out And About, Have Fun With Your Baby Or Toddler, And Meet Other Parents?
Search Happity to find everything that’s happening for the under-5’s in your local area – from music and singing classes, to messy play, arts and crafts, baby massage, gymnastics and more. Simply enter your postcode and child’s age to search, and then book your spot in a few taps. Enjoy dedicated fun time with your little one, watch their skills develop, and make friends at the same time. Mums, dads, grandparents and carers will all find something to love!
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