ABOUT THIS CLASS
CLASS DESCRIPTION:
Step into a world of wonder with our 'Pre and Early Walking (and More!)' class, meticulously designed for babies and toddlers aged 10 to 16 months and the grown-ups who support them. This dynamic and engaging class goes beyond just getting little ones to take their first steps, crafting a rich experience that nurtures both development and joy for your entire family. As your child becomes ready to take those first precious steps, our program immerses them in a world where wonder and growth intersect to allow them to master their new skill. Our carefully curated activities are designed not just for movement but to spark curiosity, joy, and connection that extend beyond the confines of the class, leaving an enduring impact on your child's early development and family’s ability to support them.
Understanding that early childhood development is a shared adventure, our class involves parents and caregivers as equal partners in activities. Through shared triumphs and supportive networks, families become integral contributors to the growth that unfolds in each session, fostering a sense of community and empowerment. Facilitated by an experienced program leader and assistant, and curriculum guided by Family Life Education (FLE) principles, our class weaves expert guidance into each interaction. From observing your child's cues to adapting activities for individual needs, we empower parents to play an active role in their child's developmental journey and foster family dynamics that support their little one’s current stage of life.
PRIMARY DEVELOPMENTAL FOCUS OF THIS CLASS:
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Guided Movement: Refine essential motor skills crucial for crawling, standing, cruising and those adorable first steps all the way to confidently walking.
Coordination Challenges: Engage in activities promoting reaching, grasping, and coordination, laying the foundation for physical dexterity.
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Texture Exploration: Introduce your child to various textures, fostering sensory development and awareness.
Sound and Sight Stimulation: Incorporate interactive elements that captivate their senses, supporting cognitive growth.
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Social Interaction: Encourage positive social interactions with peers, helping your child develop early social skills and emotional intelligence.
Structured Play: Engage in games and activities that stimulate creativity, problem-solving, and imaginative thinking.
WHAT PARENTS CAN EXPECT:
Celebrating Milestones: Acknowledging and celebrating each small victory with your child, reinforcing their sense of accomplishment.
Community Support: Connecting with other parents, sharing experiences and insights, creating a supportive network.
Observation and Adaptation: Paying attention to your child's cues during activities, adapting and personalizing the experience to meet their unique needs and learning how to do so at home.
Responsive Parenting: Learning to respond to your child's exploration with positive reinforcement, fostering a secure attachment.
Quality Time: Cherishing the moments of connection during class, and extending these bonding experiences through activities and further learning at home.
Consistent Engagement: Incorporating elements from class into your daily routines, providing a consistent and supportive environment for your child's development.
PROGRAM LOCATION - MID ISLAND
Happy Day Play at JCC Bernikow (Grown Up and Me Program)
1466 Manor Rd
Staten Island, NY 10308
ROOM LOCATION: This class takes place in the 2nd floor Gym. Upon entering the front entrance of JCC Bernikow, keep to the left. Take the stairs or elevator up to the 2nd floor and walk directly to the back. There will be a sign for the 2nd floor Gym.
WHAT TO DO WHEN YOU GET THERE
When you arrive, please go to the front desk and tell the JCC member that you have arrived for a Happy Day Play class. If you have registered online prior, you will receive your single class pass or class pass bundle. If you have not registered, you can do so in-person then.
You will be directed to the classroom, and will present one of your passes to the Happy Day Play staff member upon entry.
For play and music classes, please remove shoes and leave on sock. Strollers are permitted but must stay parked outside the classroom. If your baby needs to be nursed or have a bottle, we encourage you to do so to keep them comfortable. All other items with the exception of light blankets and pacifiers should be left with your personal belongings. Your personal belongings will remain visible to you the entire duration of class.
See Happy Day Play Classes in Action
