What to Look for in a Toddler Gym Class

Your toddler likely seems to have limitless energy, and perhaps her rough-and-tumble routine is exhausting you. A toddler gym class can help your little one burn off all of that energy in a structured environment. Whether you choose a Mommy and Me class where you tumble, dance and move right along with your toddler or register her for a class with just her peers, she can benefit in a number of ways. Explore the toddler gym class options in your area before finding one that's right for your bundle of energy.

  1. Class Types

    • Kid-friendly gyms with classes especially for toddlers are easy to find these days, but you might be overwhelmed by the choices. Some classes incorporate gymnastics, music, dance and play into one diverse class, while others focus on these areas individually. If your little one loves to sing, a music-inspired class will get him moving to his favorite tunes. Budding gymnasts or dancers might opt for a gym class that teaches them the basics of dance or gymnastics. Research what your local toddler gym offers, and choose a class that suits your little one's interests.

    Trial Class

    • Many toddler gyms allow you to give different classes a try before signing up for a semester. A trial class allows you to discover how well your toddler enjoys the activities. These trials are especially important if you've never taken a class like this with your toddler before. If toddler gym time isn't for her, you want to find out before you make the semester-long -- or more -- investment in the program. Ask your local gym about giving potential classes a try before registering.

    Variety

    • Talk to the toddler gym instructors about the types of activities that they lead during a given class. Ensure there's enough variety to keep your little one interested. Toddlers are notorious for their short attention spans, and your little one probably won't want to sit still for very long. A successful toddler gym will offer classes that feature a variety of activities to keep the kids engaged and interested throughout the class.

    Age Range

    • Find out the age ranges for each of the classes. Ideally, your toddler will fall near the middle of the age range. If he's on the younger side, he might feel limited in what he can accomplish. If he's too old, he might want to do more than the gym class allows. Talk to the instructors about what class and age group is best based on your toddler's needs.

    Flexibility

    • Choose a toddler gym class that is flexible. Ask about makeup days if your toddler is sick, which is almost inevitable. Discuss the possibility of switching classes should your toddler outgrow a class or his interests change. Finding a toddler gym that will work with your little one's needs will lead to a happy toddler and parent.

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