7 fantastic Mommy and Me classes around the metro and beyond

As both new and seasoned moms understand, little ones need a lot of one-on-one time. Bonding with your baby during those precious and formative first two years does so much for your child's development, and for your confidence as a parent. Experiencing mommy-and-me classes with your child helps you build that connection, and meet a few new friends in the process.

These invaluable classes involve exercises and activities designed to utilize all your child's senses and range from dancing and art to nature studies and gymnastics. Find your next bonding moment at one of these top mommy-and-me classes found around Atlanta and North Georgia.

Mommy and Me at Atlanta Ballet Centre for Dance Education. $173 per series. Michael C. Carlos Dance Centre. 1695 Marietta Blvd. NW, Atlanta. 404-873-5811. www.centre.atlantaballet.com.

With locations at the Michael C. Carlos Dance Centre, Buckhead Centre and Virginia-Highland Centre, you and your child can enjoy movement and music classes in one of Atlanta Ballet's state-of-the-art dance studios. This weekly 45-minute long introductory dance class is designed for 2-year-olds and an accompanying adult and lasts 10 weeks long.

Credit: Courtesy of Music Together Metro Atlanta

Credit: Courtesy of Music Together Metro Atlanta

Music Together. Class prices vary. The Music Studio at Vinings. 4895 South Atlanta Road SE, Suite 100, Atlanta. 404-618-1475. www.musictogethermetroatlanta.com.

Register for a free trial class with Music Together, which offers music development and movement classes for babies through preschool at the Vinings, East Cobb, Kennesaw or Douglasville locations. These research-based weekly classes last 45 minutes and can encourage physical, cognitive, social, emotional and language development.

Moms, Pops and Tots at Buckhead Gymnastics and Cheer. $285 per series. 2351 Adams Drive NW, Atlanta. 404-367-4414. www.buckheadgymnasticsandcheer.com.

Help your child build strength and develop coordination, gross motor skills, flexibility and more by taking the Moms, Pops and Tots classes at Buckhead Gymnastics and Cheer. This 45-minute class lasts 19 weeks and promotes introductory gymnastic and movement skills for both the child and accompanying adult.

Mommy, Me And Nature at Dunwoody Nature Center. $30-$35 per session. 5343 Roberts Drive, Dunwoody. 770-394-3322. www.dunwoodynature.org.

Show your child the beauty of the natural world with four hour-long classes that include seasonal hands-on activities, stories, games, crafts and more. Each week features guided instruction and a custom theme perfect for adventurous children. Designed for kids ages 18 months to 3 years.

Gymboree Play and Music. $35-$95 per month, 10- to 20-class pass available. Gymboree Sandy Springs. 4920 Roswell Road, Atlanta. 404-256-2223. www.gymboreeclasses.com.

Created by early childhood experts, the research-based Gymboree Play and Music curriculum centers around cognitive, physical, social and emotional development. These play programs designed for infants through preschool age offer an environment that encourages child-led, teacher-guided and parent-modeled learning. Locations available in Sandy Springs, Johns Creek and Atlanta.

North Georgia Zoo and Farm Mommy and Me. Ticket prices vary. 2912 Paradise Valley Road, Cleveland. 706-348-7279. www.northgeorgiazoo.com.

Head for the hills to experience the North Georgia Zoo and Farm Mommy and Me days, which take place the second Tuesday most months. This discounted day allows you to take part in child-centered Wildlife Walks, a petting farm, hayride and Zippity Zoo Tour.

Vinings School of Art Mommy and Me/Daddy and Me. $15-$60 per person. 1675 Cumberland Parkway SE, Suite 102, Smyrna. 678-213-4278. www.viningsschoolofart.com.

Discover your creative side with your little one during the Mommy and Me/Daddy and Me classes offered at the Vinings School of Art. With options ranging from 1-2 hours, you can choose to take part in group or private classes to fit your schedule.

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