If you are a Wilmington stay-at-home mom in search of fun activities for your toddler, “Baby Moves” is the program for you. “Baby Moves” is an educational program that provides both physical and mental activities in the critical stages of a child’s development.
Every week mom’s unite with their toddlers to encourage their child to socialize with other kids. “Baby Moves” is held Tuesdays and Thursdays from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. at the East Wilmington Greenbelt Community Center and is open to the public for free.
Maria Elena Saucedo, the instructor, leads the class with a full curriculum of arts and crafts, reading time, sing-a-long, and other fun active games. Mrs. Saucedo has been instructing the class since the program was founded in 2008. “We have very few funds to work with so mom’s donate many things like books, toys, and snacks for the kids,” Saucedo explained.
Providence Little Company of Mary and other state grants fund “Baby Moves”, but because of state budget cuts the program was in jeopardy. However, thankfully because of the high demand for it the grant was extended and “Baby Moves” will remain in Wilmington.
When the program was first launched only two families attended the class. With the help of recommendations and word of mouth they currently have over sixty families who take their child to “Baby Moves” regularly.
This is a unique program needed in Wilmington because there is nothing like “Baby Moves” in the community. Having the guidance and resources for moms with young children at no cost is very beneficial in building a healthy and safe neighborhood. “I love bringing my child here because at home there are no kids his age and I really want him to have the right social skills when he begins to go to school,” said Ana Gonzalez.
It is important to continue having programs like “Baby Moves” because early childhood education is crucial in helping kids develop quicker. A child in the toddler stages is full of energy and it is vital to keep them active and stimulate their minds with educational activities.
For more information on “Baby Moves” contact the East Wilmington Greenbelt Community Center at 310.522.2064
This is very beneficial for the community's developing children. I'm glad to see such a great program, but disappointed that this will be the last year it will receive funding due to budget cuts. Time to gear up towards supplementing another similar type of program to take it's place.