As parents, we know how daunting it can be to step outside with your little one to your first ever baby class. Let's be honest, every outing at this stage can feel like a military operation!
So whether you're taking a 1 month old or a 6 month old, let us take the stress out of packing for your first baby class with our go-to guide.
Baby Class Tip #1 - A well-stocked nappy bag
Yeah, yeah - we know, duh! But accidents happen. A poo-nami in the middle of baby class? You won't be the first or the last, so make sure you leave the house with plenty of spare nappies, wet wipes, a portable changing mat and a change of clothes for the little one for every eventuality.
If your first class is a baby swim class, ensure you have swim nappies including spares and a age appropriate wetsuit (the Splash About brand is great for this) to keep your little one warm throughout. Having loose clothing that is easy to get baby into after class is highly recommended too. If it has buttons or is even remotely fiddly, we'd leave it at home!
Baby Class Tip #2 - Milk, Milk, Milk
Whether you're breastfeeding or bottle feeding - or doing a bit of both - give yourself the best chance of having a happy baby in class by avoiding having a hungry baby. A feed ahead of class is a good idea if you have time to schedule it in so that you can relax during the session, but if you need to give a feed in class then that's fine too! It's a completely normal part of parent life. If you are breastfeeding your baby and feel self-conscious in public (first off - you needn't be! Baby class leaders are more than used to feeding parents) an extra large muslin can come in handy for draping over your shoulder, whilst many brands like Seraphine offer breastfeeding-friendly clothing options too.
Baby Class Tip #3 - A fully charged phone
What could be cuter than your little one having the time of their life at a local baby class? Be prepared to take a lot of photos. You'll definitely want your phone fully charged so you can capture the moment - but please do check if you can take pictures in class, avoid taking photos with others in shot and ensure you have permission from the provider. At swim class? Some providers often photoshoot sessions in the water. Professional photography and a dry fully functioning phone?! Win win.
Baby Class Tip #4 - An easy travel system
Babies really do love all the interaction infant classes offer them, but don't be surprised if your little one feels sleepy afterwards as a result. Sometimes the anticipation is enough, I've even had my baby fall asleep on me approximately five minutes before!
If they need a snooze shortly after (or even during class) it will make your life easier to know you can pop them in a car seat or pram with ease, hopefully giving you some precious golden time as a new parent to grab that much-needed coffee & some well-deserved peace. Baby slings & carriers are great too if you have one, it also gives you some precious hands-free time.
Baby Class Tip #5 - Enjoy it!
Your baby will be experiencing lots of new sensations in class for the first time and attending a baby class as a parent means you'll be able to share in their awe at the magical world around them. Find local baby classes near you using ClassHoppa today.