What kind of dance classes does MamaDances offer?

MamaDances offers dance classes specifically designed for mothers and their babies or parents and their children ages 1-4 years.  Our classes are led by facilitators who have undergone our MamaDances Facilitator Training Program and who possess unique skills and artistic sensibility, a passion for movement, and its influence on well-being and community development.

My child is 11/12 months. Should I join the Parent Child class or the Mom and Baby class?

In cases where you are unsure of which class to attend due to the age of your baby, we recommend you register for a session and try both classes in order to decide which one suits you and your child best. Your registration will be transferred to the class of your choice. If neither works, you have a choice between a refund, or credit for another session.

Can fathers/other family members/ caregivers participate?

Yes. We have two programs: Mom and Baby and Parent Child. The Mom and Baby workshops are generally geared towards the postnatal phase of matrescence. A registration includes one dyad (one parent/carer and one child) regardless of gender. Additional participants up to 4 total require additional fees.

The parent child workshops are created for the whole family. A registration includes one dyad (one parent and one child) regardless of gender. Additional participants up to 5 total, require additional fees.

For the sake of continuity, we recommended that the same parent attends consistently but we also recognize that each family has different needs and parents can alternate.

What is the cancellation policy?

CANCELLATIONS DUE TO DANGEROUS WEATHER CONDITIONS

For the safety of students, instructors and staff, MamaDances. may cancel classes on bad weather days. If you are uncertain, please check our Facebook page, your email or our voicemail message. There will be no refunds for classes that are cancelled due to bad weather closure.

CANCELLATION POLICY

in accordance with the Consumer Protection Act in effect in the province of Quebec, article 190

• The registration fee of 15$ per session is non-refundable.
• If the course you registered for is cancelled by MamaDances you will be fully reimbursed ( including the registration fee).
• All classes that have taken place before the request for cancellation must be paid.
• The date of withdrawal will be the date that you notified MamaDances, in writing.

 Withdrawal before the start of classes:

• You must submit your request to withdraw in writing to MamaDances by email to: [email protected]
• The registration fee of 15$ per session is non-refundable.
• You will be reimbursed the course fees that you paid.

Withdrawal after the 1st course but before the 3rd course (meaning 2 courses have taken place):

- You must submit your request to withdraw in writing to MamaDances an email to: [email protected]

- The registration fee of 15$ per session is non-refundable.

- You will be reimbursed the course fees (for the courses that have not yet taken place).

Withdrawal after the 3rd course but before the 4th course (meaning 3 courses have taken place):

- You must submit your request to withdraw in writing to MamaDances by email to: [email protected]

- No reimbursement is permitted but you can request a credit to your account to be applied to a future session. You will be credited the fees equivalent to the remaining courses without penalty.

- The registration fee of 15$ per session is non-refundable.

- You must use your credit within 1 year (365 days) from the date of withdrawal.

Withdrawal after the fourth course:

• The registration fee of 15$ per session is non-refundable.
• no reimbursement or credit will be granted if you withdraw after your fourth course.

Can I do “drop in”..

We do not offer a drop-in option for new customers, because we encourage you to try at least 2 classes to see if the activity fits you and your child. You can register for the whole session and if it does not suit your needs, you can cancel your booking up until the 4th class.  We will refund you the total amount minus the classes that you took. You may do drop in if there is space available and  you have already participated in a previous session. That way, you and your child are familiar to the facilitator. 

What kind of music is used?

We celebrate a wide variety of music at low levels for babies' ears. Predominantly world music, and including some classical and pop.

What kind of dance is included in does MamaDances workshops?

MamaDances offers dance workshops specifically designed for mothers and their babies to experience connection through movement and synchrony. Our classes are led by facilitators who have undergone our MamaDances Facilitator Training Program and who possess unique skills and artistic sensibility, a passion for movement, and its influence on  well-being and community development. We usually explore different approaches including stretching and strengthening, somatic movement, explorative movement, line dances and choreography that we learn and perform in unison. The dynamic is  gentle and at times aerobic. Dance technique, weight loss and fitness are not our objectives. 

Can I register with twins?

A registration can include up to 4 people (2 babies, 2 parents) Each registration fee includes one dyad (one baby and one parent). Additional participants can be added to the registration for additional fees. Exceptions can be made by special request, if 2 adults are not available. In this case arrangements can be made for the facilitator to dance with one of the twins.

Can fathers attend?

Regardless of gender, either parent is welcome to participate in the Mom and Baby Class. There have been a few fathers who have participated over the years. The movement vocabulary is generally mother oriented, but we are not exclusive. A  registration can include up to 4 people (2 babies, 2 parents) regular additional participants require an additional fee. Everyone is required to dance. 

My mother is coming to town. Can she accompany me?

Yes. Mothers of mothers are honorary guests. They have the privilege of observing without participation if mobility is restricted.

Can I bring my baby to the classes?

Yes, absolutely! Our classes are designed for the benefit of mothers and their babies equally.

What if my baby is sleeping?

Babies need to sleep and their sleep schedules change according to their development.  Sometimes our participants arrive late because their babies slept later than expected. Sometimes the babies fall asleep in the car, stroller or baby carrier during transportation.  Sometimes the babies fall asleep during the class. These are all examples of how we practise and encourage participation despite the sleeping patterns of our babies. 

Can I attend before my baby is born?

We have had a few participants who join our classes during pregnancy. With some adaptation this is possible and helpful for any new mother wishing to know more before the big day.

Do I need any dance experience to join MamaDances?

No, you don't need any dance experience to join MamaDances. Our classes are designed for all levels, so you'll be able to participate and enjoy the classes.

Are the classes suitable for new mothers?

Yes, our classes are suitable for new mothers. Our skilled facilitators are trained to work with mothers at all stages of motherhood and are often mothers themselves, so you'll be in good hands no matter how new you are to motherhood.

I missed the first class. Can I still join?

You can join the session up to 4 weeks after the start of a session if space remains available.

I will be away until…Can I still join?

Once registered your place will be saved for you. Prorated registration fees will be an option only in cases where there are still places remaining.

What is the ideal age of the babies for optimal participation?

We accept moms with babies between 2 and 12 months. The ideal age is between 4 months and crawling. It is best if the babies can support the weight of their head. Once the babies become locomotive, participation can still be beneficial but requires more effort.