Best Mommy & Me Classes In Minnesota

While they may be called "mommy and me" classes, parents of all genders are getting involved with these activities. Keeping baby stimulated and nurturing social skills are extremely important during the early years. Because they have become so popular, many more options for parent-child classes are popping up around the state. Depending on your child's development, classes can range from educational to more physical. However, they all encourage learning and bonding for both the parent and the child. Check out some of these awesome classes and meet some great people as a bonus!

YMCA Swim Academy
Southdale YMCA
7355 York Ave. S
Edina, MN 55435
(952) 835-2567
www.ymcatwincities.org

The YMCA has been in the business of teaching swimming for over 150 years. With a solid swim academy and a knack for helping kids of all ages feel comfortable in the water, they have developed a fantastic parent-child swim program. Starting at six months, parents can register for the "Sea Turtle" class and enjoy 30 minutes in the pool with their baby. Instructors lead the parent and child duos through fun exercises, songs and splashing games in the pool. Have fun in the water with your baby and get them ready for future swimming adventures. The YMCA also offers early bird discounts and budget plans to the community to help increase participation.

The Little Gym Of Edina
8223 Highway 7
St. Louis Park, MN 55426
(952) 924-0083
www.thelittlegym.com

One of the most loved and popular gyms for toddlers and school-aged children is also a great place for parent/child classes. Starting at age four months, parents and babies can participate in sing-a-longs, dance parties and games. Each class is designed to help promote motor skills, social skills and early development. Instructors are well-educated and comfortable with all ages, and each child is encouraged individually.

Minnetonka Early Childhood Family Education
Baby & Me Classes
4584 Vine Hill Road
Excelsior, MN 55331
(952) 401-6800
www.minnetonkacommunityed.org

Learn about your child's growth and development and meet other babies and parents in your community at ECFE. Most community centers in Minnesota run some kind of parent-child education classes to help encourage social skills and foster learning in the community. The Minnetonka Baby & Me classes focus on sensory motor activities for babies and help parents understand each stage of development. Community centers often offer childcare for older siblings and work with those families on a budget.

Related: Best Mommy & Me Classes In Minnesota

Madill Performing Arts Center
2215 W. Superior St.
Duluth, MN 55806
(218) 628-2269
www.madilldance.com

What used to be strictly a dance studio has branched out into a musical theater program and performing arts center. Children from age two and up are invited to enjoy music, movement and performing. Parent-child classes invite the parents to participate and help encourage their children to become involved with expression through song and dance. All forms of dance are introduced in a fun and supported environment including ballet, tap, modern and jazz. Bring your child for some fun and watch them embrace their own talents.

Kindermusik
190 S. River Ridge Circle
Burnsville, MN 55337
(952) 412-0265
www.kmvalley.com

One of the most recommended venues for music education. Kindermusik offers classes to babies and parents that take the child's stage of development into consideration and help focus on fostering a love of music and movement. Classes such as "Cuddle & Bounce" help to link the joy of movement and music together as well as strengthen the parent-child bond. Meet new friends and have fun with baby at this music class.

Related: Best Dance Classes For Kids In Minnesota

Andrea Wodele is a freelance writer who has lived in the Twin Cities for the last 10 years. Her hobbies include exercising, driving kids around, watching Minnesota sports, and reading self-help literature. Examiner.com.