Baby Music

Baby Music classes contain all the elements of a PRESMA class but are specifically designed for babies aged 0-12 months. To give new parents flexibility, Baby Music sessions are drop-in - you come when you can. Each class is divided into different sections with material chosen specifically to fit with the babies within a particular music group. There will be lap-songs & finger rhymes, listening games, movement, group & circle songs, such as The Grand Old Duke of York and instrument time. Baby Music provides an hour of quality time with your child (including time for refreshments and a chat!).

Your baby has come from a very rhythmic place; your heartbeat has provided a regular pulse and your voice is better known to your baby than your face. Singing to your baby is soothing and calming - it doesn't matter what your voice sounds like, your baby only wants to hear you.

Babies demonstrate an innate ability to comprehend sound as their auditory pathways are fully developed well before they are born. Naturally some react positively to loud, quick music whilst others are clearly more comfortable with quieter songs. This simple recognition is another reason for introducing your baby to music; it helps you to recognize new characteristics in your baby.

The use of music in daily life has a huge relevance for new parents. Babies react very specifically to music and they can soon appreciate dynamics, for example a stop in a song before a tickle. How useful can that stop be while changing a nappy or in the bath when you really need your baby to be still? And when is there a better time to learn to listen than when you are very small? It is a skill that stands you in good stead for a lifetime.

Each Teacher designs their own Baby Music session so there will be variations from one class to another but the atmosphere is always gentle and supportive and the sessions are musical and fun.

Baby Music is a group where you can join in as little or as much as you like. We will give suggestions for ways of using a song or rhyme, but if it doesn't seem appropriate for you and your baby, just follow your instinct and do what comes naturally. Whilst it is educational and fun, it is also an opportunity to get out of the house and meet other parents with new babies.

When you first come to a session we will ask for your name, telephone number, baby's name and age. We keep these details for administration purposes only e.g. in case a session needs to be cancelled. No personal information is ever handed out and all details are deleted in order to comply with data protection rules, when your baby reaches 12 months and leaves the class.

You'll need to bring a blanket or mat to lay baby on and a rattle or shaker to play during the instrument time.

Sorry but videoing is not permitted during the sessions, and please only take photographs during refreshment time ensuring that the other parents are comfortable with this and having signed our PRESMA child protection photography register.

Come when you can:

• Have fun and find your voice
• Learn new songs to sing at home
• Make new friends
• Be part of a wonderful shared musical experience with your baby

Remember to bring:

• A mat or blanket
• A rattle or shaker
• A scarf

Baby Music Classes are currently held as follows:

1. Tuesday 11.30 Watton Surestart Children's Centre, West Rd Watton. Sarah Davies 01362 850006
2. Wednesday 11.30 Eaton Park Community Centre. Sarah Davies & Julie Church 01362 850006 / 01603 508136
3. Thursday 10.30 St Andrew's Church Centre, Thunder Lane, Norwich. Fiona Hardman 01603 412241