Baby Sensory is an award-winning, sensory development programme specifically designed for babies from birth to 13 months; with a vast range of sounds, smells, sights, textures, music, movement, baby signing and singing to help with baby’s brain development.
Charlotte and her very mini Mumbler recently went along to Baby Sensory Central and South Leeds to experience their offering. Read what they thought below:
As we entered the WOW centre; a purpose-built studio designed specifically with Baby Sensory in mind, we found an amazing space filled with exciting and engaging activities to explore, lots of twinkly lights, and calming music. To the back of the room there is a large space lined with Star mats for more structure activities, where the sessions begin. We were warmly welcomed by Caroline, who ran through some key Baby Sensory, and health and safety information.
Each week has a different theme; ours was ‘Tap and Clap’. Then for consistency each session follows the same format; starting with ‘Say Hello’ – a truly comforting and heart-warming song that will stick with you and your baby for years to come; followed by structured activities; then a free-play session in the middle to explore the different areas of the room; followed by more structured activities; and finished off with ‘Say Goodbye’ – a calm and relaxing song that will send your sensory-filled babies off to sleep.
The first part of the session had the babies exercising their muscles and their minds through a range of songs. The theme’s namesake ‘Tap and Clap’ had the babies tapping their feet and clapping their hands; ‘Pop goes the Weasel’ had the babies bouncing on knees and flying in the air; and ‘How are you?’ provided babies (and parents) with some simple sign language. We then finished off with four seasons in one song; holding on tight to our umbrellas as Caroline whizzed round with bubble raindrops, rainbow ribbons, a giant sun balloon and petal snowflakes.
We were then ready to roam the free-play area, where Annabelle enjoyed a spot of tummy time; looking at the mirrors, glitter balls tubes, and feeling different textures. She also experienced her first ball pit; and found herself transfixed by the night sky in the dark sensory room.
The last section found us playing a game of peek-a-boo with bears; Annabelle seemed truly surprised every time the bear disappeared and reappeared. And we got to enjoy some more of the night sky using rainbow lights on a star parachute, encouraging essential tummy time. And to round everything off the lights continued with baby-sized light sabers which definitely got Annabelle’s attention.
Baby Sensory is a great way to introduce your baby to the wonders of the world, though a range of activities to experience in a bright, fun and safe environment. Caroline is extremely welcoming and accommodating to everyone; understanding that baby’s work to their own routine, with no pressure to complete an activity if your baby isn’t keen. She explains each activity and its benefits for baby, providing a great starting point for you to continue the fun at home, should you wish.
Classes are currently running on a Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday (and Fridays for the September term only) at a variety of times to suit.
Monday: 12:30-1:30
Tuesday: 11.30-12.30; 1-2
Wednesday: 11.30-12.30
Thursday: 10-11
Seasonal and Saturday Specials are also available.
Each session lasts 1hr with a different theme each week, and is suitable from birth to 13months.
Sessions are £8.50 each and are booked in termly blocks at www.babysensory.com/south-leeds
SPACES STILL AVAILABLE THIS AUTUMN TERM. Contact Caroline for more details at southleeds@babysensory.co.uk
Wow Centre, 1st Floor European House, 93 Wellington Road, LS12 1DZ (Above Tile Giant)
Parking available on site.
*Mumbler was not paid for this review but we did receive a complimentary class. All of the comments in this review are our open and honest opinion. Published September 2023
