We received this feedback from one of our Making Rainbow mums, Rebecca. THIS is why we do what we do! It’s not just about a weekly music classes, it’s about creating something of value for parents and children that fosters wellbeing, development and enjoyment. It’s abut making precious memories with your little ones.

When my daughter was hospitalised at six weeks old with failure to thrive, my new motherhood bubble burst, saturating me with worry, doubt and fear. 

During our stay, one very understanding paediatric dietician turned to us and said “I’ll worry about your daughter’s weight, you focus on all those bonding activities”.

While it wasn’t as easy as just letting it go, her advice was spot on and Making Rainbows gave my young daughter and I a new bubble of bonding.

In amongst hospital appointments and feeding and sleep routines, the world we entered at Gordon Park on a Monday morning was bright, joyful, comforting and welcoming.

It was a place where I was free to truly enjoy my daughter, something I was no longer able to do at home, and the other mothers and babies made it that much better.

Before joining Making Rainbows, I was sceptical, thinking that my daughter wouldn’t get anything from the class at all which actually meant we ended up missing out on a term of classes because of my worry. Looking back, I see what a shame that was.

The program is created by an Early Childhood specialist, meaning they are very good at knowing how to put together a class to engage the youngest of babies to the older toddlers.

My daughter has learnt how to develop a real love of music, engage with different textures and sensory experiences. It’s encouraged her gross and fine motor skills and really got her moving.

But for all the benefits my daughter has received, Making Rainbows has made a real difference to me and my mental state.

There’s a fantastic quote “the best thing about motherhood is the other mothers” – and how right it is. Making Rainbows has given me a weekly activity where I get to connect with other parents and have an adult conversation.

It’s become a weekly injection of colour and sunshine into my life, which makes a huge amount of difference to how you bond with your baby and how you cope generally with life.

So, to all new parents, parents of toddlers, parents one child or five – do yourself a favour and get in contact with Making Rainbows because they really make a difference.

In the Four Questions. series we ask Making Rainbows parents the same four questions. First up, we have mum of two, Manique.

What is your professional background?

In my non- mummy life I work as  a physiotherapist in private practice. I love treating pregnancy related issues and post natal patients, and I think becoming a mum myself and understanding and experiencing all the changes our body (and minds go through!) in this period of our lives has made me develop and even greater interest and love in working in this area.

What is the most challenging thing about parenting for you right now?

Having just had our second baby last year when our first only had turned two years old  a week prior, I would say that feeling like I am able to provide a nurturing environment and providing attention to two very young babies both at the same time is the most challenging. You always want to do better and give more of your time and affection to your children and the leap from one to two was an eye opening experience. I’m in awe of those mums with 3, 4, 5 and more – you’re amazing !  Also, sleep…or lack of sleep has been challenging this time around. 

What are you enjoying most about parenting right now?

This one is hard to narrow down…Nothing has given me more joy in my life than watching my two girls interact and play with each other, and seeing the absolute delight my ten month old feels when her big sister sings or dances for her. There’s nothing better than snuggling my little ten month old and seeing her face light up. Seeing what an amazing and unique little character my almost three year old is becoming and how she is changing daily is so beautiful…it’s an explosion of speech, humour, inquisitiveness and fun on the daily! Parenting toddlers can be challenging but it’s also hilarious! 

Parenting toddlers can be challenging but it’s also hilarious! 

What do you enjoy most about Making Rainbows?

I love that I can bring both my girls to a class that caters for both of their abilities and developmental stages. They love music and dancing and it’s a highlight of their week and mine, as I watch their excitement and happiness during the class.

 

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