How to enjoy ANY parent-child class!

Parent-child classes are a huge hit.  Almost everywhere you go now offers something for the toddler set.  It seems to be a growing market trend.  Today I'm going to give you advice on how to enjoy any toddler class.

1.  Follow Your Child's Lead.  This is the single most important tip I have.  Does it mean let your child do what they want?  Does it mean let your child run around?  Does I mean I have to walk around the room after my child?  It means focus on your child.  Observe what they are doing in class.  Give them a change to do the activities on their own.  Listen to what they are saying.  Sit or Stand with them and speak to them at eye-level as you are engaging with them.  Actively play with them showing your interest..  Give them opportunities to show you new things.  

2.  Have Realistic Expectations.  It's important to truly know your child.  Try not to compare them to other children who are the same age.  All children develop at their own pace and while you can sometimes see developmental delays, it's best to talk to a professional if you have big concerns.  All children, should be able to enjoy the class with modifications for their developmental stage.  The teacher or you should create ways to enjoy the activities.

3.  Don't Force Them To Perform.  Classes for babies and young child should have some structure and introduce concepts but not force them to perform.  If your child balks, let them explore it on their terms.  Let them watch others do it.  Take them to the side and take a break until the next activities.  All good things come to those who wait so give them a chance to learn over the weeks they are in class.  Most classes build on skills and concepts so that activity should be reintroduced and changed up for them to explore it in a new way.  

4.  Pick A Time That Works.  Be sure to select a class time that give you plenty of time to transition your child from their daily schedule.  Don't rush to daycare to pick them up at 5pm for a 5:30pm class and then rush across town to get them ready.  Make sure it's a time that works around their schedule or make your schedule work for the class.  You might want to feed them or give them a snack earlier if class runs into lunch or dinner time.

5.  It's All For The Children.  Expect some repetition and a sense of schedule.  Expect there to be transitions in class from doing one activity to the next.  Follow your child's lead and have realistic expectations based on your child's age as you move through the activities.  If your child starts to meltdown find a way to transition them.  If you have questions about your child in class, find time to discuss them with the instructor.  Expect the instructor to make modifications and walk around the facilitate different ideas for the needs of the children.  Expect the instructor to focus on the children but include tidbits and information about ways this might incorporate into daily life.  Remember, this activity should be for they overall enjoyment and fun.

Remember, these tips can help you enjoy any parent-child class.  It's important to go in with a calm spirit and open mind.  Take a trial class, if possible.  Just because "everybody" goes to a certain class doesn't mean it will be the right fit for you and your child.  Try various places and instructors.  Find a flow that works for you.  Many classes run in a set number of weeks or have a month-to-month option.  I strongly suggest committing to a whole semester and attending regularly.  

Good Luck and Enjoy Your New Class!

For more information on classes and programs with First Roots Music,

please visit www.first-roots.com