In the meantime, the award-wining franchise was reaching out to families all through the lockdowns, running virtual classes and events
Twelve months in the life of a toddler is a very long time. They may have learnt to walk, say new words, found new ways to play or even become an older sibling. These huge milestones have mostly been happening behind closed doors and now experts are looking at what effects this could have had on development.
The Babies in Lockdown report captured the experiences and issues faced by a range of parents. The report seconded the experts’ observations who have witnessed toddlers’ delays in speech and language as well as trouble sharing and being in groups.
It highlighted that a big part of this was that many parents worried about the lack of interaction their children were getting with others the same age. Razzamataz Theatre Schools has been reaching out to families all through the lockdowns, running virtual classes and events, including bedtime stories and kitchen discos.
The schools now welcomed back students, including the very youngest Tots to enjoy building back the missed opportunities in relation to cognitive and social stimulation.
“Children develop quickly in the early years and their experiences can have a major impact on their future life chances,” explains Denise Hutton-Gosney, MD and founder of Razzamataz. “We believe that every child deserves the best possible start in life and we will be supporting families to help them cope with any challenges as a result of this lost year.”
Razz Tots has been designed for ages two to three years old. The littles ones discover melody and movement through exciting journeys to the jungle, space, under the sea and much more. The classes have been designed to meet the government’s National Early Years Guidance and includes imaginative play and crafts. There’s a social time at the end of each session for both the Tot and grown-up and will give new parents the ideal opportunity to make new friends. Razzamataz is following all government advice and measures to reopen safely.
For parents, missing out on vital interaction with other parents going through the same milestones has also been very isolating as Denise adds: “Parenting a young child can be very lonely and what is a lifesaver for many is the chance to meet other parents with similar age children to discuss any concerns or just to laugh about the funny little things toddlers sometimes say. Our Tots classes are just as important for parents and carers to give them routine and structure and a chance to connect with others.”