Thank you for your interest in this story

To continue reading this article, subscribe to the Stray Ferret for as little as £1 a week

Already a subscriber? Log in here.

Jul 2020

Last Updated: 28/07/2020

News

Toddler classes in Harrogate say there's no help for them

by Newsroom

| 10 Jul, 2020

A number of teachers who run musical classes for toddlers and babies say they have "fallen through government's cracks."

Before lockdown, Hannah Ruddy from Musicality Kids was teaching 120 children a week.

Teachers running musical classes for babies and toddlers across the district say they have had no guidance as to when they might be able to restart face to face teaching.

Rhythm Time and Musicality Kids are amongst many companies which deliver music and sensory classes for babies and toddlers in Harrogate.

Despite lockdown restrictions being eased, both Rhythm Time and Musicality Kids said they have no idea when they might be able to see their students again despite holiday clubs and summer camps being allowed to restart.

Local community groups helped by estate agent funds

WATCH: Junior tennis players get back into the swing of things

Hannah Ruddy, owner and founder of Musicality Kids in Harrogate has been sending weekly emails to parents with resources to help them continue classes at home.

She told The Stray Ferret:

"When the current situation hit it was very clear to me that I certainly wouldn't be able to do what I do. My classes are very hands on and sensory. I could have adapted for online, but it wouldn't have been my brand."

Since putting her classes on hold back in March, Hannah has not been earning and said, because she is self-employed, has had no support from the government.

"There's no help for us because we have fallen through the government's cracks. This isn't a silly little music class, there's so much more to it. Without it there's going to be a massive void in the world, something needs to be done."

Ami Stott, the Harrogate business owner and class leader at Rhythm Time, turned her son's bedroom into a recording studio and has been delivering online classes.

She said:

"Even though the students are really little, they are missing out on social interaction."

The Children's Activities Association has pledged to the government to take notice of the issue and provide specific guidance as to when activities can safely restart.

Thank you for your interest in this story

Toddler classes in Harrogate say there's no help for them

Read more: