FAQs
Check out our most commonly asked questions for each of our three classes on offer: Little & Bright Stars, Twinkle Tummy Time and Wild Wonderers.
Little & Bright Stars Music & Movement
What IS a Music & Movement Class?
It's a fantastic way to introduce the littlest ones to the joys of music and rhythm. We use fun songs, improvisation, movement, puppets, fingerplays, engaging props and encourage a sense of teamwork and community spirit. In these classes, babies and children get to sing along, wiggle, and giggle as they explore music through play. It's a delightful and age-appropriate way to nurture their growing minds and bodies.
How Many Children are in Each Class?
Each class has a minimum of 6 families and a maximum of 12 families. Most classes will have 12-15 children total when including infant siblings or twins/triplets.
What is my role in the class?
Parent or caregiver participation is often encouraged, as it provides a secure and bonding experience, especially in the beginning of your child's music and movement journey. As always, you will be your child's role model and they will learn by watching you and imitating you!
I'm a terrible singer! Will that put my child off?
Not at all! In your child's eyes, you are incredible and your enthusiastic participation in class will encourage your child to feel comfortable to do the same. At Twinkle Kids, we celebrate ALL singing, moving and grooving equally!
Why should I commit to a term?
There are so many benefits to a term of classes! Your children will learn the songs, structure and expectations of the class very quickly, allowing them to grow in confidence and self-assuredness. They will also have the benefits of seeing the same children and families each week, supporting them in growing social relationships and offering a chance for the parents and families to get to know each other too. We are a real little community!
Can I do a trial class first before committing to a term?
Our terms are usually very in demand and as such we don't often have availability for trial classes. However, please contact Katie at Twinkle Kids if you are interested in a trial class and we will try our best to arrange that.
Why is the age range so broad? Shouldn't my child be with children their own age only?
We offer mixed age classes as the benefits are huge for babies and children. Younger babies can observe the older toddlers and children to learn from them and grow in confidence while the older children love to be the role model and also show incredible nurturing and social skills as they include and encourage the little babies in the class.
What should I expect from my child?
Nothing at all! At Twinkle Kids, we recognize that all children are different, and all children will interact with the class in their own way. Some children are more observers, some like to dive straight in enthusiastically. There is no "right" way to play at Twinkle Kids! We also use modelling so the children learn from each other at key times such as tidy up time to help keep order and allow the class to flow smoothly. We will never push your child to interact or do anything they are uncomfortable with. All interactions and participation is welcomed!
Twinkle Tummy Time
Is my baby too young?
Twinkle Tummy Time is suitable from newborn but it is more about you as the parent, whenever you feel ready to join a group of parents at a similar stage to you. We have had babies as young as 10 days old join our Tummy Time class. Even very young babies are listening, observing and absorbing all that is going on around them. Many parents attend our Twinkle Tummy Time class to bond with baby, meet other parents in the area and gain ideas to use at home too!
How many babies in a class?
We have a minimum of 6 babies and a maximum of 12 babies in a class plus their parent or caregiver. We like to keep class sizes small and intimate to create a comfortable community vibe.
My baby hates Tummy Time, won't they scream the whole time?
The number one rule of Twinkle Tummy Time is that tummy time is completely optional! If your baby does not like being on their tummy (it's VERY common) then no worries! We will offer suggestions on other positions that your baby will be comfortable in such as lying down on their backs or snuggled in your arms!
Can I feed my baby during class?
Absolutely! Our class is fully baby-led so if you need to breast or bottle feed, change a nappy or talk a walk around during class to settle or soothe to sleep it is completely ok!
Can I bring their older sibling along?
We love the bigger toddlers, but Tummy Time class has been designed for very young babies and isn't as suitable for the older littles. However, we understand sometimes life gets in the way and older siblings are out of playschool or childcare and you don't want to miss class. In these cases we are happy to have big bro/sis attend class provided they are not overly disruptive or unwell. If you are looking for a class that both children can attend, you can check out Little & Bright Stars Music and Movement!
Can I start the class after the term has begun?
Please contact Katie at info@twinklekids.ie if you have missed the beginning of the term and we will do our best to allow you to attend. This is done on a case by case basis and will depend on the capacity of the class and the number of bookings for the term.
Do I need to bring anything?
You will need to bring a mat, blanket or cushion to sit on as well as a blanket or mat for your baby to lay on. All props will be provided by Twinkle Kids
Why is Tummy Time Important?
Tummy time is when you place your baby on their stomach while they are awake and supervised. It's essential for building your baby's neck and upper body strength, as well as helping them develop the skills needed for crawling and other motor milestones. Daily Tummy Time is strongly recommended by the HSE. All babies are different and some will tolerate being on their tummies more than others. We will always offer suggestions or alternative ways to help make Tummy Time enjoyable for all!
Wild Wonderers
Is the class fully outdoors?
Yes, we are outdoors for the entire duration of the class with no shelter apart from some lovely tall trees.
What should my child wear?
In Winter: Layers, layers and more layers! We live on an island in the Atlantic and it can get very wet and windy. Layer up with vests, jumpers, fleece and rainproof pants and jacket. It is always easier to take some layers off than put extra ones on! A hat, neckwarmer, gloves and thick socks help too.
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In Summer or warmer weather, light clothes work well. Long pants are useful as there can be some sticks and nettles if they decide to explore the long grass.
What else should I bring?
A change of clothes, a towel, wipes or a damp cloth, snacks, a hot flask (if its really cold!), a blanket for the car trip home.
Can we eat during the session?
Although snacks are an integral part of every baby, toddlers and kids day, we politely ask that you refrain from eating snacks during the session. This is to avoid contamination with the play equipment and to deter unwanted visitors like rats. If your child really needs to eat, please snack at the side of the play area (never inside the play area) and remove all rubbish.
What if it rains?
There is no such thing as bad weather, only bad clothing!
Twinkle Kids runs in all weathers, unless there is a weather warning for rain, wind or snow/ice which would make play unsafe. I have found that the children don't mind the rain too much at all once they are properly dressed. Parents are welcome to bring an umbrella for their own shelter!
How old will the children be?
Our group is mixed age to facilitate peer and social learning. There will be children from 6 months right up to 6 years at a session all enjoying and engaging with the playspace in their own way.
Do I play with my child at the session?
That is completely up to you. Many parents find that their children are so immersed in their play, they don't need to engage with them unless necessary. Other parents might enjoy the bonding time they get as part of the session. As always, there is no right or wrong way to play at Twinkle Kids. Everyone is welcome.