As the days are getting darker and the weather is getting more wintery, you may find yourself looking for something fun and active to do with your baby or toddler. Sling Swing and Beanie Boppers may be just what you are looking for! Check out our guest blog from instructor Kat Burgess, to find out more.
As a mum of a 2-year old I know how challenging it can be to find something active that you can do together all year around. When I was searching for classes which involve gentle exercise and baby bonding in one, I found Sling Swing, but the nearest classes were too far to travel. As a personal trainer, my passion for leading a healthy lifestyle coupled with my skills as a former primary school teacher, led me to starting up my own franchise in Leeds. Now my evenings are spent dancing around my house practicing routines and learning new ones!
Since launching in July, I’ve been so lucky to meet so many fantastic local parents, babies and toddlers. I love seeing my customers enjoying the music and most feel like they’ve had a great workout afterwards (which they didn’t realise during the session – as it’s just dancing!)
Here’s what a regular class member Rebecca has to say:
“We have done both the Sling Swing and Beanie Bopper sessions. Sling Swing is great for getting moving whilst also being close to your baby, especially if you don’t wear them much day to day! The songs are really catchy and I find myself dancing along if I hear them on the radio! We swapped to Beanie Boppers when the small one got to the stage where she wanted to run around instead. Her favourite part is definitely the parachute… can’t keep her away from it. Importantly, the classes are so reasonably priced. So much costs an absolute fortune that this is a real bargain. I would (and do!) recommend them to anyone.”
Read on to find out more about the Sling Swing & Beanie Boppers classes to see if they are right for you.
What is it?
Sling Swing is a gentle baby wearing exercise class aimed at promoting bonding whilst learning a fun dance routine. Babywearing has so many benefits for both parent and baby. It’s a great workout for you and a great way for your little one to relax and cuddle. I find I can respond to my daughter’s cues quicker, and it even helps with colic.
Who is it for?
It’s not just for mums – dads, carers, grandparents are all welcome! Anyone who enjoys having fun with music and movement.
Do I need my own sling?
I have attended a Babywearing course and am a qualified Personal Trainer so I do ensure babies are worn correctly and that we warm up and cool down safely. If you don’t have your own sling, don’t worry, I can provide Connectas and I also have one stretchy wrap. You can also borrow slings from the West Yorkshire Sling Library.
How do I get involved?
Mondays. 1.30-2.30pm @ Cool Buzz Studios, Wheldon Road, Castleford, WF10 2JJ
Wednesdays. 1.30-2.30pm @ Garforth Methodist Church, Church Lane, Garforth, LS25 1NW
Thursdays. 11.45am-12.45pm @ Riley-Smith Hall, Westgate, Tadcaster, LS24 9AB
What is it?
A fun music and movement class for toddlers and pre-schoolers to enjoy dancing independently. Children love music and movement – what better way to enjoy the two along with friends and having an opportunity to make new friends!
What do you do?
The sessions run in a 6-week block where we learn one or two dances which will be performed during the last session of each block (with or without parental guidance depending on age). We use a variety of props such as scarves, hoops, maracas and ribbons to keep the children engaged whilst focusing on key movements. I also like to use the parachute as children love playing with it and hiding underneath. Each session finishes with bubbles and a sticker for each child. We have some child slings, so children are welcome to bring their favourite teddy or doll to dance with.
How do I get involved?
Mondays 11.10-11.50am at Garforth Methodist Church, Garforth, LS25 1NW.
Thursdays. 1.45pm-2.25pm @ Kippax Band Social Club, 17 Mount Pleasant, Kippax, LS25 7AT
Find out more
