Taking babies as young as four months old to a class is becoming an increasingly popular trend. Classes that were once intended for crawlers and walkers are now being offered for even younger babies. There are a variety of classes offered for babies and parents. You may be wondering what is available and if the classes are worth the time and money needed to attend. Here are some of the classes typically offered for babies and toddlers. Yoga for Babies
This is one of the newest trends in classes for babies. Yoga has grown in popularity among pregnant and new mothers in recent years. Now studios in major cities and even some smaller cities are offering yoga classes for mother and baby. Proponents of these classes say that yoga has benefits for babies, including relieving gas and constipation. In addition, taking classes throughout childhood can lead to healthy fitness habits and increase the chance that they will continue to practice as adults.
Baby Gym Classes
These classes have been around for a long time. They are offered at places like Gymboree or My Gym. Babies roll, crawl or climb on the equipment, depending on their level of development. Parents interact with the baby throughout the class. Some places have open time where members can come in and play on the equipment without attending a class. This is fun and sometimes more relaxed for the baby, if he is shy in a larger group.
Larger gyms are now catering to the popularity of gyms for babies. Some are offering family memberships, including children. This trend is not as new as classes in a big gym for babies. Some programs offer parent and child classes. Others offer classes for the kids, while mom enjoys a work out on her own. Call the gyms in your area to find out what is offered.
Music for Babies
Music classes are offered in chains, such as Music Together. In some communities, mommy and me music and movement classes are offered through the local community center or other organization. In these classes, babies move to music and play with simple instruments such as shakers, maracas or drums.
Do babies benefit from classes?
Opinions are mixed on the benefit of classes for babies. Organizations that offer classes will tout the benefits of their program for your baby. You can do the same basic things at home with some musical instruments, music CDs, mats or mother/baby yoga DVDs. The baby will benefit from play time with mommy or daddy, whether it takes place at home, at the park or in a class setting.
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