Baby Steps Level 1 (6 weeks-6 months old)
This 6-week hour-long weekly class is for little ones that are pre-mobile.
Join our Pediatric Occupational Therapist as you learn age-and-developmentally-appropriate activities to do together with your little one. Make some new parent friends, and learn how to interact with your little one as they are on the move!
Enjoy some bonding time with your little one and and learn movement patterns such as rolling over and sitting up, tummy time, tips on sleeping, emotional regulation and build social skills.
Weekly topics:
Week 1: Overview of infant development and intro to the class
Here we talk about the progression of fine motor, floor play, sitting and mobility skill
Week 2: Infant Sleep
Some sleep facts and solutions. Honouring every baby.
Week 3: Sensory & Spaces
Sensory activities and how the environment plays a role in development
Week 4: Play for you and baby
Other things you can do, the balancing act, recommended toys
Week 5: Mealtime with baby
Schedules, positioning, ways to enhance feeding in first year
Week 6: Co-Regulation
Attachment, attunement, temperament (basically self-care, stress management)
Each class we will cover a topic that relates and connects to development— motor, cognitive, social, sensory. More often than not, we are bombarded with information and pressure to do it all. Walk away with more confidence, calm and connection. This class and group discussions will help simplify your approach with your baby giving you more time, less worry and permission to have fun while baby plays on the floor.
You will have some time to interact with other parents as well as have some time to practice skills such as tummy time and crawling (depending on where your child is at).
What other parents are saying about Baby Steps:
“The best part about the program was that I was given both opportunities to learn how to stimulate and play with my baby, and also the freedom to step back and let her explore the world on her own without guilt.” —Mom of two
FAQ:
Can I get this covered under insurance if I live in another province?
It would appear that you may be able to, but you should check with your insurance just to be sure.
Can I claim this under my child’s name?
Yes, absolutely. Just remember though that your insurance will only pay for those classes that you attend; not for those that you don’t.
I’m worried about screentime – should my child be doing classes online?
This is a class for mamas to learn while their baby plays on the floor nearby (or in their lap). It’s not likely that the screen will be interesting enough for them to focus on it for any amount of time.
How does my insurance handle this?
We provide you with an occupational therapy receipt at the end of the series, which may allow this class to be covered by your insurance! This receipt is itemized and breaks the class fee into 6; please note that if you have insurance coverage, your insurance will only cover you for those weeks that you are present in class.
Cost: $195 (No HST)
Class / Workshop Facilitators
Teddie Buchner (she/her)Adult & Pediatric Occupational TherapistTeddie is an Occupational Therapist with a focus on pediatric and maternal health. She is currently working towards her PhD in Occupational Therapy, focusing her research on maternal and infant mental health and attachment.
Teddie has worked as an occupational therapist in community mental health, school-based, and outpatient pediatric settings, eventually specializing in pediatric mental health and developmental trauma. Teddie has experience addressing orthopedic and orthotic needs, environmental modifications, adaptive communication, sensory processing challenges, visual motor deficits, community mobility needs, work ergonomics, wheelchair seating, and supported employment efforts.
Teddie has served as a Clinical Educator for four graduate OT programs, and has held a faculty position, teaching and serving as the academic fieldwork coordinator at Grand Rapids Community College. Teddie also managed Saskatchewan BlueCross Life and Disability department, providing education to the insurance company and employers regarding the impact of mental health in the workplace, and influencing recovery trajectories to enable members to successfully return to work after illness or injury.
Teddie carries the designation of Qualified Mental Health Professional. She is thrilled and excited to bring her many years of experience to the families at West End Mamas to help with both their occupational therapy and mental health needs. She currently offers virtual appointments for Ontario residents and in-home appointments for the Niagara area.
Teddie is fully vaccinated against COVID-19.
Class / Workshop Facilitators
Class/Workshop Details
Duration:
Instructors/coordinators:
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Upcoming Dates
*Please note this session has been extended by 1 week, as there is no class June 2nd, 2022.*
Cancellation Policy
Please note that we do not offer refunds.
