By Maureen Connolly for Your Baby Today
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p>If you attend a Mommy/Daddy and Baby class -- like music, yoga, or exercise -- thinking that they'll give your infant an intellectual edge, think again. "These classes don't make your baby any smarter, but they do have a multitude of other benefits," says Andrea Grimaldi, M.S.Ed., a project manager for the non-profit Zero to Three National Center for Infants, Toddlers, and Families based in Washington, D.C.

p>The best reason to enroll your infant in one of these classes? You get to spend one-on-one time with your baby, which is essential for healthy development, says Grimaldi. Your baby also gets to be in a room full of other adorable infants doing baby-like things, which they happen to get a real kick out of since they get to see themselves mirrored. And even at this young age, infants are learning social skills which are also essential to their development.

p>But before you sign up for one of these classes, Grimaldi says there are a few things you can do to ensure that you get your money's worth:

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li>Prior to registering, see if you can drop by and observe a class. Is it a safe and clean space? Are the floors clean? Are the mats dusty? Do they provide air conditioning for summer months or proper heating in the winter? A too-cold or overheated infant will quickly become irritable. Is there adequate lighting? A room full of fluorescent lights could over-stimulate your infant.
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li>Do they provide an area for diaper changes that's clean and convenient?
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li>How well does the teacher interact with the kids? Babies will respond to someone who's enthusiastic and seems to be enjoying herself.
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li>Ask if they'll provide the names and numbers of a few parents who've already taken the class so you can call to ask about their experience.
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li>Find out if there's a limit on class size. There's a whole different dynamic in a class of 10 children versus 15 or more. A lot of babies in one room can take away from the purpose of the class -- especially since there's bound to be some crying and fussing.
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li>Inquire about a make-up policy for sick days and inclement weather. If you know you won't be able to make a certain class, sign up right away for a make-up since these slots tend to fill up quickly.
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