The terrible twos, moody threenagers… yep, the toddler years can certainly be a challenge. It’s a time when you need a super-strong bond with your child, but they can also push your buttons faster than a monkey on speed dial.
Having a shared activity each week is a great way to reconnect and have fun together. You can put aside the battles over whether to wear shoes and just laugh and be silly for a moment.
Miranda Smith, owner and teacher at Dance Empire Sunshine Coast believes that dancing together is the perfect antidote to toddler tantrums.
“Our Mummy & Me classes bring primary carers and children together to enjoy music and movement in a calm and positive space,” says Miranda.
Designed for kids aged 15 months to three-and-a-half years, the classes use a mix of props, songs and imagery to develop co-ordination, gross motor skills, an appreciation of movement to music, and to provide a basic introduction to a couple of ballet steps.
“The environment is relaxed and friendly, with no costumes and no obligation for little ones to continuously participate,” says Miranda.
The children work closely with their primary caregiver, giving them a sense of security and confidence.
“It’s wonderful to see the bond between carer and child shine as they enjoy the time together.”
“With Mum by their side, the children feel safe to really enjoy the classes. Their faces light up when they dance together.”
But of course, it’s not just for mums!
“We have grandparents, dads, who all come along. It’s a wonderful mix which makes it a happy, welcoming experience for all. And it’s not just girls, either. The boys love it too!”
“And of course, if you have younger ones to look after (that are too young to participate), you are welcome to bring them along as well!” says Miranda.
Mummy & Me dance lessons for kids on the Sunshine Coast
Being such a relaxed format, the classes also provide the perfect environment for you to have those precious shared moments we all crave.
“As parents, we are always trying to capture and hold onto those milestone moments in our child’s life. First steps, first words, first day of school.
But, the moments that really matter are those many unremarkable activities that you share. The activities you share, the games you play,” says Miranda.
“With Mummy & Me, dance becomes that ‘thing’ that you share together, a special activity that will be in the memory banks forever.”
The Mummy and Me program provides a foundation for the Kinderballet program if they choose to continue. Dance Empire doesn’t have any enrolment fees and class sizes are limited to 10-12 children per class.
Mummy & Me classes are held at Peregian, Buderim, Warana, Mudjimba and Maroochydore. Each session is half an hour.
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