In your late-night scrolls or brief moments of quiet while your baby napped, you may have seen this viral video of a baby dance class. The clip includes caregivers swaying back and forth to that classic — and very appropriate — tune "We Are Family" with their infants in their arms, joyfully bopping to the beat.
Flux + Flow, the Columbus, Ohio-based studio in the post, calls its class "essentially a practice of baby hypnosis" designed for 0- to 6-month-olds.
"There is not a single baby crying," one commenter remarked. "They are all so relaxed."
If you're curious about this kind of class, read on. Here's why music and movement can be beneficial learning tools, what to know before signing up for a baby dance class and how to find a group in your area. Come on — get your groove on!
Why baby dance classes are great for parents and babies
Learning to dance isn't a big baby milestone, but not every baby game or activity needs to propel your wee one toward advanced skills. As long as you're safe (supporting his head, never shaking him), you can both enjoy it, says What to Expect Medical Review Board member Jesil Pazhayampallil, M.D., a board-certified pediatrician at Good Samaritan Hospital on Long Island, New York.[1]
"Dancing with your baby is a wonderful way to interact as little ones enjoy music, listening to a parent's singing voice and being held by a loved one," she explains. Other benefits accompany dancing with your baby:
- It's a brain booster. Yup, music literally helps your baby's brain develop, whether you sing, dance or play him some tunes on the piano or even a kazoo![2]
- You'll get some exercise. Your little one doesn't need a workout, but you might relish a chance to get a little exercise while also snuggling with your baby.
- It promotes socialization. Dance classes offer the chance to meet other infants and parents and mix in a group. This can strengthen your baby's social-emotional skills and give you an opportunity to make some new mom friends.[3]
- You'll cement your bond. Your voice is a powerful bonding tool, especially when you use it to hum or croon to the tunes you hear in dance class.[4]
- It's a lot of fun! Dancing puts a smile on your face, and your little one might feel the same way.
- You'll improve his mood. Got crying? Your baby might be asking for some soothing movement — and a bit of gentle dancing could be just the ticket.[5]
What to consider before taking a baby dance class
If you're thinking about signing up for a baby dance class, always check the description to ensure your baby is the right age. And above all, put safety first.
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"Support his head and neck, and avoid jolting or any aggressive shaking movements, just as you would in any interaction," Dr. Pazhayampallil says. And be certain to carefully strap your infant into his sling or carrier so he's secure during class.
If you're a new mother, ease slowly into exercise and check with your OB/GYN if you've had a cesarean section or complications during delivery.[6] In general, it's safe to exercise post-pregnancy when you feel up to it, so wear proper footwear for dancing, and take a break if there's any strain. Of course, baby dance isn't HIIT or a boot-camp class, so it's a gentler way to get back into movement.
How to find a baby dance class near you
A quick online search will yield a variety of baby dance classes in your area. Check out your local YMCA, community center, nearby dance studios or even the gym that you're a member of, as they might offer group dance for infants and other enrichment activities.
Sometimes the classes you find will fall under the "Mommy and Me" category and will include a mix of singing, story-time, yoga and dance. Zumbini, an offshoot of Zumba Fitness, offers 45-minute classes that combine music and dance. Flux + Flow, the studio in the viral video, offers virtual options, and so do many other places.
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