Classes For Babies?

Traditionally, the Evergreen Park Recreation Department has developed programs from the preschool level on up, including a storied preschool program, adult and tot classes, sports, enrichment, cooking and the like.

“We have had several requests for activities for parents and their newborns,” stated Kelly Kelly, one of the program directors for the Rec Department. “We are happy to roll out two new programs that I think new parents will enjoy.”

First on the list is the “Baby and Me Playgroup”, which debuts on Tuesday, April 29, with alternate class dates on Saturday, beginning May 3.

This six-week group is designed for parents with babies, newborn to eighteen months to have open forum discussions, offer advice and support each other. Topics for discussion in the forty-five minute class will include feeding, health and safety, sleep, self-care and much more. Ample time will be available for baby’s floor playtime, using developmentally stimulating toys and interactions with each other.

The Tuesday classes begin at 6:30pm, with Saturday classes starting at 10am. Both sets of classes are held at the Maplewell Center (3450 W. Maple), with a fee of $90 that covers the full six weeks.

An alternate baby-bonding program is the “Tots of Joy Infant Massage” class that runs on Tuesday evenings at the Evergreen Park Senior Center (9547 S. Homan Avenue) from 6:30pm to 7:15pm.

Beginning on Tuesday, May 6, a certified instructor will guide parents and caregivers through a hands-on session promoting post-natal care services to help bonding and parent skin-to-skin touch. Each of the four weeks will focus on different massage techniques and benefits. The class runs $60 and is open for parents with babies two weeks to seven months old.

With either class, parents are reminded to bring a blanket for tummy time!

Interested participants can register at the Community Center, 3450 W. 97th Street, or online.