ABOUT THIS CLASS
CLASS DESCRIPTION:
Welcome to Oh Baby Baby! Play and More, where we recognize the extraordinary journey of early childhood development and celebrate every little milestone with families. From the tender age of newborns to the explorative phase of early walkers, our classes offer a nurturing environment where babies and their parents or caretakers thrive together. This class is targeted towards newborns to 12 months approximately, but we work with grown-ups in determining comfort level to moving up to our Toddler Time class. There is no rush or firm cut-offs, only fun!
In our classes, we understand the profound impact that trusted, open environments can have on a child's development and impact on your overall family’s growth. That's why we've curated a team of childhood development specialists and family support specialists who are dedicated to creating a space where both babies and grown-ups feel valued, supported, and open to sharing their unique journey. We are the only early learning program in Staten Island offering classes through a family science-based lens and are certifiably able to provide adequate parental support (because you matter, too!)
We believe that family play an integral role in their child's journey, especially during this critical time of growth and discovery. That's why our classes are designed to not only nurture the development of babies but also provide grown-ups with the latest in early childhood knowledge, resources, and support they need to navigate this exciting stage of life. This class is for both new and seasoned parents alike!
Your family will have access to our expansive gym, where we have a ton of high-quality and versatile wooden gym equipment, soft-play items, and more. Additionally, we bring in new items for thematic based lessons every week! No class is ever the exactly same, but ensure there is familiarity to help with transitions into and out of the environment.
This class is broken out into three major milestone focuses and customized to your child with ease due to our individualized attention offered by our program leaders and assistants.
Floor Time (and More): Immerse yourself in a nurturing environment designed for newborns to 6-month-olds and their caregivers. Guided by experienced leaders and Family Life Education principles, parents become active participants in their child's growth journey, fostering a supportive community and empowering family dynamics.
Sitting and Crawling (and More!): Join our dynamic class tailored for little explorers aged 6 to 12 months, celebrating milestones and mastering newfound skills. Parents as equal partners cultivate a sense of community and empowerment, guided by expert facilitators and adaptive curriculum.
Pre and Early Walking (and More!): Step into a world of wonder with our class meticulously designed for babies and toddlers aged 10 to 16 months. As your child takes their first steps, our program immerses them in a world where wonder and growth intersect. Carefully curated activities spark curiosity, joy, and connection, leaving an enduring impact on your child's early development and family's ability to support them. When you feel like your child is ready to move onto Toddler Time, our next class our Play and More series, you can transition when you feel most comfortable.
PRIMARY DEVELOPMENTAL FOCUS OF THIS CLASS:
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From guided movement to coordination challenges, we refine essential motor skills crucial for crawling, standing, and confidently walking.
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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 10314
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. They will direct you to the room.
Upon entry, please present your confirmation to a Happy Day Play staff member. If you have not registered, you can do so at the start of class by scanning the QR code and registering online.
For play and music classes, please remove shoes and leave on socks. 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
