Toddler classes wtih baby in tow?

[jennrgolden]

So, I'm due with #2 in March and my son will be turning 2 in January... we've decided to wait longer before sending him to daycare, but that means his toddler classes are hosed. Do they let you take the baby in with you? I can't see how this will work since you'll need to interact with your toddler...ugh...

Any tips beyond daycare or nanny/helper?

Thanks!

[Anonymous]

I had multiples the first go round and was never able to do many of those classes since they require you 1:1, so i doubt they'll let a baby come along.
My suggestions would be to form a playgroup with others who have similar ages...and it's free!

[Anonymous]

I've been to different classes (Music Together, gymnastics, art classes, stuff at libraries) where you're fine bringing the baby. A lot of moms just leave the infant in the carrier or in a sling, and if the baby needs attention the instructor or another mom often helps out with the toddler if needed. Of course, this wouldn't work for something like swimming.

Beyond that, joining or forming a playgroup is a great thing at your son's age.

[Anonymous]

Music classes are definitely good, as are storytimes - look at the library, of course, but there may also be things at local bookstores, toy stores, or chains like Borders, B&N, and Starbucks. Anything that requires one-on-one is out, but you may find as your son hits 2 that more things are open to him and require only that you be on the premises - like maybe gymnastics or soccer. Also maybe look into Gymboree - they have a siblings class, no idea on the ages.

[Anonymous]

We did JW Tumbles in Alexandria - not sure where you are - with my 2.5 year old and a newborn. It wasn't a problem at all. The baby either slept in the car seat or was in the Baby Bjorn. If he needed to eat, the class moderator was very helpful in helping my 2.5 year old while I fed the baby. Once the baby was old enough to sit up, he would sit next to me while I interacted with my 2.5 year old.

[Anonymous]

The twins were 18 months when the baby was born and I took them to classes with the baby in a bjorn or a sling, or if she was asleep she stayed in her carrier, this worked for about 8 months, then she had to stay at grandma's house.

[Anonymous]

My DD will be 3 in March, and I have a 5-mo old DS. I take DS along with us to DD's ballet and tap classes, and there usually isn't a problem. I wear him in a carrier, or let him nap in the infant car seat. If he gets upset, I just step out of the room for a second to calm him down, and then go back in.

Also, FWIW, I own Andy's Parties, and there are several moms who bring their infants along for their toddler's classes throughout the week. I can't speak for every business owner or class instructor, but I think most businesses that cater to kids and families (including ours) try to be as family-friendly as possible.

[Anonymous]

I had a 2.5 yo and a 6 mo. old in Gymboree, targeting the todder's age group, and they were ok with me bringing the baby. However, once the baby started trying to crawl, it got harder, and some other parents gave me nasty looks over it, but the teacher said not to worry about it. Nonetheless, once my older one turned 3, I took them out. Music Together was great for both, and I think Gymboree now has a sibling class.

[Anonymous]

I think most music classes offer "sibling" classes. We go to musiKids and do the family adventures classes. I have friends in music together and they are having a similar experiences with their children. So go for it. No nasty looks!

[Anonymous]

I have an 18 month and a 5 month old and I can take my 18 month old to gymboree/playdates/anywhere really where I can place the baby in a safe area in her car seat. It only got easier after she turned 3 months and was not as fussy. I expect to get even easier when she can carry her own bottle. I have even seen some mothers use the bjorn although I personally am not comfortable with it, my back always hurt. Any of these "classes" should have a moderator that should help for a few minutes if you have to do something with the baby. Also your toddler is a bit older and probably understands and does not run away like mine does. If I can do it, you certainly can do it