Baby checklists
Baby's first year
First Baby Activity Class Checklist
18 items · 13 must-haves · From baby's week 24
How to choose, prep for, and get the most out of baby's first structured activity class
Choosing a Class
- Research age-appropriate optionsParent-baby swim starts at 6 months, music classes at 3 months, baby gym at 6 months. Match the class to your baby's developmental stage, not your ambition.
- Check instructor certificationsInfant swim instructors should have ISR or equivalent certification. Music teachers should have early childhood training. Credentials matter when your baby is involved.
- Read parent reviews for the specific classOPTIONALNot the facility - the specific class and instructor. A great gym can have a terrible baby class. Ask in local parent groups for honest feedback.
- Try a free trial class before committingMost places offer a free or discounted first class. Never pay for a 10-week session without testing it. Baby might hate it and that's OK.
What to Bring
- Pack swim diaper and regular diaper for swim classPACKSwim diaper goes on in the pool, regular diaper for before and after. Bring two of each because one blowout changes everything.
- Bring a full change of clothesPACKWet, messy, or just a surprise blowout. You'll need a complete outfit including socks. Pack it even for a music class.
- Pack a snack and waterPACKPost-activity hunger is real. Puffs, a pouch, or crackers and a sippy cup. Fed baby equals happy car ride home.
- Bring a towel for swim or messy classesOPTIONALPACKHooded baby towels are ideal. Facility towels are rough and never warm enough. Your own towel is a comfort signal for baby.
- Apply sunscreen if the class is outdoorsOPTIONALSPF 50, broad spectrum, applied 15 minutes before class. For babies under 6 months, shade and clothing are better than sunscreen - check with your pediatrician.
Before Class
- Feed baby 30 minutes before classNot too full, not hungry. A full stomach in a swim class leads to spit-up. A hungry baby in a music class leads to screaming through every song.
- Pack the diaper bag the night beforeOPTIONALMorning scramble plus class prep equals forgetting something essential. Pack everything the night before and do a 30-second check before you leave.
- Arrive 10 minutes early for the first classPaperwork, waivers, finding the room, getting baby changed. Rushing in late with a baby is maximum stress. Early is on time.
- Dress baby in easy-on/off clothesOPTIONALSnaps beat zippers, onesies beat full outfits. You'll be changing in a locker room or a corner in approximately 90 seconds.
During Class
- Follow baby's lead, not the class scheduleIf baby wants to watch instead of participate, that's OK. If they need a break, take one. Learning happens through observation too.
- It's OK to step out if baby is overwhelmedNew sounds, new people, new environment - it's a lot. Step out, calm down, try again. No instructor worth their certification will judge you.
- Don't compare your baby to other kidsThe baby doing perfect kicks started 6 months ago. Yours is exactly where they should be. Comparison steals the joy from every activity class.
After Class
- Offer a snack or feed immediately afterActivity burns energy. Baby will be hungry and possibly overtired. Feed first, then head home for a nap.
- Give it 3 sessions before deciding if baby enjoys itFirst class is sensory overload. Second class is adjustment. Third class is the real test. Don't quit after one bad experience.
Check it off together
Make a free account to tick items off as you go. Your partner sees the same list, ticks included.