The Steamboat Pilot & Today: Mom-toddler exercise class

Mom-toddler exercise class lets kids work out their energy

Michelle Ideus gives her 14-month-old son, Nolan Laird, a helping hand while playing on a slide at the Mom & Toddler Movement class at Colorado Mountain College. View photo »
Mathais Radl-Jones, 2 1/2, climbs through a tunnel. Many of the exercises in the class are extensions of how the children usually play. Instructor Robin Wilson says the class has to be fun to keep the interest of toddlers. View photo »
Marcia and Nicholas Cobb get quality time during the CMC class. View photo »
Keep it fun Wilson encourages moms and toddlers to do the exercise together and to keep it fun. Many times simple toys, such as a bouncy ball, can hold the toddlers’ interest and allow them to build key core muscles. Wilson said moms should use an approved exercise ball, and toddlers can use a small toy ball that allows them to keep their feet and hands on the ground when draped over the ball. View photo »
Building muscles In this exercise, moms and toddlers should start on their knees, drape their bodies over the ball and lift their legs. They complete the exercise by supporting their weight with their arms. The exercise is a great way to build core strength while also working on balance and other important movement skills. View photo »