Postnatal
Can I bring my fussy baby?
No worries! We fully expect "crank-o-pottamus days" when teeth are emerging, bums must be changed, babies must be fed; bring them anyway, chances are you could use the trip out of the house! Baby's needs come first. You are welcome to stay in the studio unless you need a distraction-free environment to tend to your little love. If you arrive feeling rushed, then take your time to settle in and make yourself at home. The same goes for after class, if you need to feed your little one to ensure a smooth trip home, then go ahead and do that! We're all moms and we completely understand!
Can mothers of multiples participate?
First of all, we salute you!!! But seriously, we know you didn't plan to have two or more babies at the same time...so...consider this a buy one get one free clause. For the price of one, parents of twins (or more) are welcome to bring a spouse, relative or friend to exercise or dance with the second baby. If this is not an option, you are welcome take turns with one baby while the other either sleeps or looks on in their baby seat beside you. If you are bringing a second person please include their full name on the comment portion of your registration. Thanks!
I haven't taken an exercise class in MONTHS...is that okay?
Hey, didn't you just have a baby?!!! Our classes are SAFELY designed to accommodate all levels of fitness and stages in the postpartum period. We know that some new moms are in excellent shape, whereas others who have had C-sections or more difficult pregnancies may need to ease back into physical activity at their own pace. It is important that you listen to both your body and your baby.
Both you and baby must have had your six-week health appointments and medical clearance from your healthcare provider prior to beginning any exercise regime. Upon registration you have an opportunity to provide us with information that will help us determine if there are any contraindications or specific needs you may have before and/or while you engage in post-natal exercise.
Remember, we'll also be talking about safe and effective postpartum exercise strategies in class to keep you and baby safe during the tender postpartum period. You're in good hands!
I only dance in my living room...by myself...can I still participate?
You betcha! Very few moms in our classes have danced before - motherhood makes women brave! We can tell you this with 100% confidence, your baby will think you're the MOST amazing dancing ever! They love the gentle sway and rhythm and do not know whether you're going right or left. Remember the goal: get out of the house, meet other mommas and get some exercise. We build the steps so anyone can catch on - just keep moving, snuggle that wee babe and have fun!
What type of carrier is best for the dance class?
A safe, supportive two-shouldered carrier is vitally important to strengthen and accommodate your postpartum body when exercising with your baby. You will learn about babywearing and carriers in your class to ensure the safest and best possible fit for you and your baby. Babywearing is a skill to be learned and we are here to help. We also know that our body shape changes several times over the first year after giving birth - so you may need "refitting" throughout the session - please speak to your Instructor at any time - we are here to help you! You can also watch our blog for helpful babywearing information.
Please note: the only carriers we do not recommend are ring or pouch slings. For exercise purposes they do not allow women complete freedom of movement of the upper body and can be tricky to ensure good weight distribution which may lead to achy lower backs after class.
Can I bring my older child to the mom and baby classes?
Even though the class is designed specifically for mothers and babies, it is not uncommon to find older children in tow. You are welcome to bring your older child with the understanding that you are fully responsible to ensure that they are kept safe with minimal distraction to the class. Some children prefer to dance alongside their Moms, and for this we suggest that you position yourself either to the back or side of the group to keep them from getting underfoot. Providing activities to keep them occupied is also a good idea. We prefer not to have any food in the studio so please come prepared with these things in mind.
One other thing worth mentioning is that it can be nice to use this time exclusively for you and your new baby's relationship. It is not often we can having time with just the baby with an older sibling in the house.
What do I need to bring to class?
- baby carrier (visit here for more info)
One more thing to consider: we strongly suggest bringing an extra onesie for after class as the babies will be moist and warm from being snuggled up beside you in the carrier. This is especially important for cooler Saskatchewan days.
How young OR old can the babies be?
It is important that both mom and baby have complete their 6-week checkups and receive medical clearance to begin exercising. There is no upper age limit in our classes, it is not uncommon to find babies over 12 months in the classes.
The basic guideline is that both mom and baby should be comfortable using their carrier for the duration of the class - but remember not all carriers are created equal. Regardless of the age of your baby, you will learn how to safely carry your child from our us. Whether you have a newborn or a walking toddler, we have the knowledge to help ensure you and your little one have a safe and comfortable experience.
If you do have to stop to tend to your child, we ask that you snuggle them back in your carrier before dancing again.