3 London baby and toddler classes tried and tested

Monkey Music
When we came home after a long Easter break, one of the first toys 22-month-old Baby Boy grabbed was his much-loved pink monkey from Monkey Music. He adores his weekly Monkey Music music classes, and that’s why I’m also excited to continue to collaborate with Monkey Music, which offers music classes for children aged 3 months to 4 years. It is perhaps the best known music class for babies and toddlers in South West London, and I’m not surprised that Monkey Music was voted ‘Best kids club, group or class in London 2016’ at the Little London Awards. I like that the classes are varied, feature gorgeous props, talented teachers and the ever popular pink monkey. The songs are catchy, and there are instruments to play, bubbles and stickers. The new term starts on 24 April, and children who haven’t tried before can arrange a free taster class.

The Little Foxes Club
I sometimes feel I need an extra push to ensure the children are outdoors in all weather, and that’s one of the reasons I signed Baby Boy up for football with The Little Foxes Club last term. The Little Foxes Club offers football classes outdoors for children aged 18 months and older, and although it’s challenging for the youngest to play football, I liked that we were outside in the park and Baby Boy was kept entertained. He was not necessarily kicking a ball all the time, but he was on the move, picking up cones and junior-sized footballs, and sometimes having a go at kicking one. The coaches were very patient and good with children, which made it an enjoyable experience.

JudoGym at The Budokwai
From the age of six months, little ones can take their first classes at martial arts club The Budokwai in Chelsea. I was recommended these classes already when I was pregnant with Big Girl, and Baby Boy has done a term at The Budokwai. I think the class was great for him since he could run around in a big padded room after singing a few songs at the start of the lesson. The room is also set up with a little obstacle course, and he could try balancing, jumping and more. I think it was good to have a physical class in addition to a music class. The instructor George, who is also a popular birthday entertainer in the area, is great with children, and creates a fun atmosphere for all.

Tags: Activities for children, Activities for toddlers, Baby activities, Baby classes, Football, Judo, Monkey Music, The Budokwai, The Little Foxes Club