Vancouver, WA

My 2 1/2 year old daughter, Goldie and I have been having a blast for the past few Saturday mornings by participating in a mommy and me dance class through Portland Parks at the Mt. Scott Community Center, located at 5530 SE 72nd Ave in Portland. It is right on the corner of 72nd and Harold st. You can either park on the street on 72nd near the front entrance or go around to Harold street for the back parking lot and rear doors. You will see a really cool mural on the wall and know you are in the right spot!

I wasn’t so sure at first when my friends suggested that we sign up because seriously? Toddlers + structured activity=chaos, but only $22 for five 1/2 hour classes let me satisfy my curiosity on the cheap. I have been pleasantly surprised at the quality of the class and how the teacher Miss Jackie was totally prepared for tiny free spirits. She shows them how to move their pudgy bodies in new ways. The class is designed for 1 1/2 to 3 year olds and the music is mostly from The Wiggles so it was familiar to the kiddos. The teacher has us partner up with our charges and dance in pairs. It is pretty funny to watch the moms and dads doing the chicken dance right along with our kids at 9:30 in the morning when it is obvious that many of us have scarcely finished our first cup of coffee!

Mt. Scott is a very family friendly facility. The restrooms are reasonably clean, and that is one of my top priorities when out and about with a potty training toddler who like to TOUCH EVERYTHING. Surfaces that are likely candidates for germs are her favorites so I appreciate a tidy space. Diaper changing tables are available as well and that has come in very handy when bringing baby sister with us. Since the class is very parent involved, you should either bring another adult or find child care for additional kids.

Many different kinds of kids will enjoy this class, although some shy children might be more inclined to watch the action than shake their bootys. That is okay too. It is all about learning to come out of your shell in a safe, supportive and fun way. I totally recommend this class and the similar dance classes offered through Portland Parks. You can find the schedule of classes and register here. Give it a try and let your little one get some energy out! At the very least it guarantees a good nap afterward.