New Baby and Toddler Movement Classes Launch in Arklow

There is good news for parents in Arklow with the launch of a new parent and toddler baby club designed to support early movement and development.

Gentle Start Collective will offer calm, movement-based classes for babies and toddlers, focusing on building strong physical foundations in the early years.

The emphasis of the classes is on how children move, rather than competition or performance. Sessions are designed to support balance, strength, coordination and body awareness through simple, purposeful activities that feel both natural and enjoyable for young children.

Georgia Gavin, who holds a degree in early childhood education and is behind the new initiative, outlined the approach behind Gentle Start Collective.

“At Gentle Start Collective, we believe that early movement matters, and that a calm environment supports confident children. Our aim is simple, to give children a gentle start by supporting strong bodies, calm minds and confident families from the very beginning.”

She added that classes are intentionally small, unhurried and supportive, offering an alternative to louder, more overstimulating toddler activities.

“Parents stay with their child and are encouraged to support rather than direct, helping children build confidence at their own pace.”

Two classes will be available. The Little Movers Baby Foundations class is designed for babies aged 3 to 12 months and is a gentle parent-and-baby session supporting early movement such as rolling, reaching, crawling and early standing, while also helping parents feel confident in supporting their baby’s development.

The Little Movers Active Doers class is aimed at toddlers aged 1 to 3 years and is a sporty, non-competitive movement class focusing on balance, climbing, pushing, pulling and coordination — all of which are considered building blocks for future physical activity.

Both classes will begin on Tuesday, January 27, at the Colour Club Arklow, with Baby Foundations running from 12pm to 1pm, followed by Active Doers from 1pm to 2pm.

Places can be booked through the Gentle Start Collective Instagram page.