Classes vs Time at Home for a 2 Year Old.

Once the weather gets cold, it's important children get out of the house and move and get exercise. I see nothing wrong with lots of different classes and playgroups. It's great for socialization since you are home with your child. Just stay flexible and don't feel bad about skipping a class here or there is you just need a break.

Yes, I think it's too much...just being honest! Even preschool is only (usually) 3 days a week and that's still 2 years away for you. IMO...keep the music and dance (if she LOVES it) but skip the school type structure.

Good luck!
~L.

Lisa -

I think this is going to have to be something that you work out for yourself, but personally I think it is too much. It sounds like you are setting yourself up to have a child that needs to be entertained and is unable to be content playing at home. Also, if you plan on having other children, this type of schedule may be very hard to maintain (It would be for me with a 3 yr old and an 8 mth old), which may make your days at home even more difficult.

I have also worked with many families that started out schedules like this and they continued when the kids started school b/c the kids weren't happy unless they were doing something 'special/fun' every night and they were going all the time. Kids were doing homework in the car every night.

Can you find things at home that you can do together? Playdoh, markers/scissors, glue, paint, bike, cook, etc that you can do to help the day go by? Even cleaning can be 'fun'. Yes, you have to redo most of what they do, but you are doing something and doing it together. :)

Good luck and have fun!
J.

I only have a one year old, but it sounds like a lot! I know what you mean though about keeping your day entertaining! I would suggest that if you do something in the evening, stay home during the day. Keep in mind any errands and other activities you might have to do when planning. It might be good to keep at least two days free for other things that come up! As long as your child is well rested and happy, then great!

I'd say you have to find what works for you. I normally take my 1 1/2 year old out for a playdate 1x a week, we have a class once a week and play at the house 1-2 times a week. We'll go grocery shopping one morning a week as well.

I think maybe focus on things like playdates too. Maybe have one playdate with one other friend once a week?

Maybe check out Kiddie Klub too.. www.kiddieklub.com for a playdate and fun.

If you have interest in Kindermusik, I'm still offering a class starting on Sept. 9th Tuesdays at 10:15. www.loziermusic.kindermusik.net

C.

Hi Lisa~

Maybe start with just the playgroup through the school district and see how that goes. It seems like a music class, gym class & dance class also might be too much. I have a 2 1/2 year old that will be starting preschool this fall--2 days a week (9:30-11:30). Figure we'll meet some new friends and enjoy the experience away from home. But she still takes naps and having down-time is good too.

good luck :)

I think as long as the classes are with you and involve quality time for the two of you, its good! I too, loaded up during the time my daughter was 2 and i always felt the benefit was in having an activity that fostered us to have quality time together. It was a very fun time for us! Thinking back, we did a library lap sit program, a gym class, an art class, a spanish class, and an evening tumbling--all of them included me or my husband. Maybe not all in one week or anything but throughout the year. I think if you were dropping off your kid and leaving them, then i would think that would be too many. Just my thoughts!