Is a Mommy and Me Class Right For You?

Q. Dear Bracha, Are there REAL benefits of enrolling in a Mommy and Me class? I didn't do it for my first three kids, but I plan on taking an extended maternity leave when my next one is born. Will a Mommy and Me class make my child smarter? Will it make him/her more receptive to music? To movement? Can small babies even comprehend this type of stimulation?

A. To answer your question I had to do a little homework. I looked into Mommy and Me classes on the internet. The basic consensus from the experts is that, unless your child has a developmental issue, adding stimulation programs for an infant provides no intellectual benefit. Children six months and under are certainly fascinated by their environment; but they can be sufficiently stimulated with simple toys and household objects to explore, such as a spoon, with the security of loving parents who respond quickly to signs of distress (crying).

Mommy and Me classes vary widely. As you know, not all programs are alike, even if they seem to have the same description. The primary question you need to ask yourself is the following; what did you want to get out of the program for you and your child? If you wish to concentrate on some quality time together because your time is so compressed with the three older children, then perhaps a Mommy and Me class is something you will find it fun to do with the baby; one-on-one time would be beneficial. Something like a baby massage program could meet your needs nicely.

At the same time, you should know that extra stimulation at this young age will not make a health, normal baby smarter, or make him move better. To enjoy music it is sufficient to buy some inexpensive CDs of music and play them in your home at your pleasure. Use a variety of music you enjoy and throw in some of the classic masters, especially Bach's violin concertos. Will this help? As they say, well...it won't hurt!

In my research, I did find Mommy and Me classes for children at the toddler stage and these seemed to have more potential benefit. One such class describes the focus on the cognitive development of the child. The class is a place where the child will be taught to share, wait his turn, be polite and have respect for the environment.

A Mommy and Me class of this sort sounds like a great opportunity to create a balanced relationship between moms and their young child. This is especially helpful for people who are having a hard time conceptualizing what their dynamic two year old should be doing and is really capable of. Too often a dynamic develops between parents and young children whereby the parents do everything for their children. It could be helpful to participate in a class where the instructor helps to bring out your child's potential and you can learn to work together.

A Mommy and Me class for toddlers that teachers responsibility may be worthwhile. As you know, however, not all programs turn out as advertised. Before deciding on any program, do the research and talk to your friends and acquaintances who have taken the class already. I hope you will find all stages in your child's development wondrous!

Wishing you and your family all the best, Bracha