Frequently Asked Questions
What should I wear?
Clothing: Please wear anything that you feel comfortable to move in - this could be jeans, leggings, a dress or anything you like!
Footwear: any boots with a low heel (including cowboy boots) are ideal - low friction helps with turning and stomping, but trainers and other flat shoes are fine too. Please do not wear sandals, flip-flops, heels, socks or have bare feet during the class as this can can cause slips and trips.
Props and accessories are always welcomed - bonus points will be awarded for cowboy hats/ boots/tassels!
Can I park at the venue?
Baby Barn Dance - Eaton Park Community Centre: Yes - there is a car park at the venue where participants can park for free during the session (1 hour stay). There is also Pay and Display parking next to the venue (£2 for 4 hours) - this is a good option if you would like to stay on and explore the park or have a coffee/lunch in the café after the class.
Big Barn Dance: Yes - There is a large free car park at the venue.
What time should I arrive?
Baby Barn Dance: Please arrive at 12:15pm for sign in and positioning support. Warm up and dancing begins at 12:30pm. Please do not enter the venue before 12:15pm as other groups will be packing away.
Big Barn Dance: Dancing begins at 8pm. Please arrive 5-10 minutes before the class to sign in.
Will there be breaks during the session?
Yes there will be plenty of breaks for rest and water throughout. Chairs will be set out around the hall so feel free to take a break or attend to your baby or take a rest at any point during the session.
Baby Barn Dance FAQs:
What do I need to bring?
Please bring a sling or carrier for baby-wearing. We have baby ear defenders that can be borrowed during the class, but this is not compulsory. Please bring a water bottle so you can stay hydrated. There is drinking water available in the on-site kitchen.
What should I wear?
Please wear clothing and shoes that you can move in... one light layer between you and your baby is recommended as you are likely to get warm dancing! Foot wear: trainers or boots with a low heel are ideal. Sandals/ flip-flops/ barefoot/ socks are not suitable when dancing as can cause slips and trips. Props and accessories are welcomed - bonus points will be awarded for cowboy hats/ boots!
How should I position my baby during the class?
Inward-facing front carry (chest-to-chest) provides the best support and security. Outward facing is not recommended as it provides less spinal support and can be overstimulating.
High back carry is suitable for older babies with strong neck control (6+ months). This allows your baby to see while maintaining ergonomic support and closeness. We will check that all babies are safe and secure at the start of the session and are very happy to help you with positioning.
How old does my baby need to be?
Babies can attend from 2 months old (corrected, if premature) following your postnatal check ups. Babies must be over 7lb in weight. We ask that if you want to join following a C-Section that you wait until 3 months. Little ones up to 18 months are welcome if they can still be comfortably carried.
Is the class suitable for older children?
This class is only suitable for parents/carers and their baby in sling/carrier. Please do not bring older siblings with you.
Who is the class for?... can Dads come too?
Yes! The group is for anyone who is wearing a baby in a sling/carrier. This can include Dads, Mums, friends, family members and carers.