Top Notch Mommy & Me Classes for Babies, Toddlers & Preschoolers

We've got more than a dozen ways to bop or bond with your little one all around the town. (Daddies welcome too, of course!)

By Rachel Sokol August 3, 2015

One of the best things about being a parent in NYC is the dizzying number of options of all things kid-related. This is never more true than when it comes to “Mommy & Me” classes. Even if the idea of sitting around in a circle and singing with other parents and kids makes you cringe (you’re not alone, by the way), there is a class out there you will actually enjoy. (Your kid?: They’ll love it.) We’ve rounded up more than a dozen classes to take with your tot, from tummy time to sign language to all kinds of music to get you and the kid movin’ and groovin’. (Daddies are of course welcome, too.) Click on through to find your perfect match!

For Small Acoustic Classes: Hug Music

At Hug Music, all group classes—6 children maximum per group—are designed and led by music therapist/pianist Kana Kamitsubo-Markovic and composer/guitarist Sasha Markovic who emphasize the importance of introducing young ones to live, acoustic music. They believe babies and children are often exposed to computer-generated music, and that introducing children to quality acoustic music from a young age promotes healthy development of their “young ears”. Original music is played live throughout the classes. Babies join Hug Me with their parents or caregivers and participate in simple, fun, and nurturing music activities. Additionally, each child, regardless of age, is exposed to real instruments such as the guitar, drums, bongos, color bells, and more. (Note: There are two teachers to each class; allowing for each child to receive personal attention.)

Be in the Know: Two new music classes are in the works, so stay tuned: one for expectant mothers and one for new mothers with newborns; led by a music therapist. These classes will focus on relaxation, mother-baby bonding, and learning how to use music to support baby's needs.

Ages: 6 months to 4 years

Location: 112-01 75th Ave, Forest Hills, Queens

Cost: Tuition for each session is $240 (9 weeks). If you sign up for both sessions (18 weeks), the tuition will be discounted to $460. Trial classes are available for $25 per class

Online: hugmusicny.com

photo: courtesy Hug Music