Frequently Asked Questions
Everything you need to know about Tiny Whirlwinds sensory classes. Can't find what you're looking for? Contact us!
Browse by Category
Quick access to the information you need
General Information
Sensory classes are specially designed activities that engage babies and toddlers through sight, sound, touch and smell. Our classes use colourful materials, textures, music, and interactive play to stimulate your child's development while creating a fun, safe environment for exploration and learning.
Our sessions are designed around EYFS, Montessori principles, and Birth to Five Matters, supporting early learning, motor skills, confidence and emotional wellbeing. We focus on the six key senses - touch, sight, hearing, smell, balance and body awareness - with each activity being designed to strengthen one or more of these essential foundations.
We offer classes for babies and toddlers from birth to 3 years old. Our classes are divided into age-appropriate groups: Tiny Stargazers (0-6 months), Little Explorers (6-15 months), and Active Adventurers (15-36 months). Each class is tailored to the developmental stage of your child.
If your little one is close to the next age group, you're welcome to choose the class that feels right for their stage. As every child develops at their own pace, some babies prefer to stay in their current class a little longer, while others are ready to move up sooner. If you're unsure, just message us - we're always happy to guide you and ensure your child joins the group where they'll feel most comfortable and confident. Please note that children must be able to sit assisted for Little Explorers and walk confidently for Active Adventurers.
Class lengths are tailored to each age group: Tiny Stargazers (0-6 months), Little Explorers (6-15 months), and Active Adventurers (15-36 months) are all 40 minutes. These durations are designed to keep little ones engaged without overwhelming them, with time for structured activities and a gentle wind-down.
Bring the essentials: your usual changing bag, a muslin, and anything your baby needs for comfort. A small blanket is also helpful for floor activities and a comfort item your child loves in case they start to feel overwhelmed at any point. For textured play, we regularly use sand, water, leaves etc and so advise bringing a spare pair of clothes and a towel for your little one. We provide all sensory props and materials, and everything is kept clean and safe for little hands and feet.
Your baby may sleep, cry or need feeding during the class and that is completely normal. There is no need to leave - you are welcome to comfort, feed or cuddle your little one at any time. There's no pressure for babies to "perform" - we follow their lead.
Yes! Our classes are parent-and-child sessions. We believe that bonding and interaction between parent and child is crucial at this age. You'll be actively participating in the activities alongside your little one, creating special memories together while supporting their development.
We keep our class sizes small to ensure personalised attention. Each class has a maximum of 14 children with their parents or caregivers. This intimate setting allows our instructors to give individual attention while still providing opportunities for social interaction.
Booking & Scheduling
Booking is through our online booking system only. Visit our website and select your preferred class and time. Once booked, you'll receive a confirmation email with all the details you need for your class.
Yes - places are limited to keep our classes calm and comfortable. Booking ahead ensures your spot in the session. We do not accept walk-ins.
Yes! We offer a FREE taster session - perfect for trying us out. We also offer drop-in sessions at £15 per class, subject to availability. Many families start with the taster session and then continue with our term pass at £10 per class for the best value.
We understand that life with little ones is unpredictable! Please message us as soon as possible if you need to cancel. If a class is cancelled by us, you will be offered the opportunity to rebook for another session.
Yes! If you can't attend, you're welcome to offer your space to a friend or family member, as long as their child meets the class age range. Just let us know their names before the session so we can welcome them properly and ensure everything is set up for their little one.
We offer classes at various times throughout the week to accommodate different schedules. Check out our full schedule on the Classes page to find the perfect time for you and your little one.
Yes! Babies under 6 months can attend Little Explorers and Active Adventurers classes for free with their older sibling. If you'd like both children to participate in their own age-appropriate class, we can help you find suitable sessions for each.
Spaces get booked up fast! We advise signing up to our waitlist so you'll receive an email as soon as booking opens for the next term. This gives you the best chance of securing your preferred class times.
Pricing & Packages
We offer flexible pricing options: Your first taster session is FREE, our Term Pass is £10 per class for the full term, and Drop-in sessions are £15 per class. Classes are booked on a termly basis and don't roll over to the next term.
We accept all major credit cards (Visa, Mastercard, American Express), debit cards, and online payments through our secure booking system. Payment is required at the time of booking to secure your spot in the class.
Yes! We offer a 30% discount for twins in the same class and a 15% discount for siblings. Please message us before booking to arrange your discount.
We cannot offer refunds on booked classes. However, we can reschedule your session if possible and availability allows. Please message us to discuss your options.
Absolutely! Class packages make wonderful gifts for new parents, baby showers, or birthdays. Message us to arrange a gift package, and we'll take care of the rest!
Health & Safety
Safety is our top priority. Our facility is childproofed with soft flooring, rounded corners, and secure equipment. All materials are non-toxic and age-appropriate. We maintain strict cleanliness protocols, sanitising all toys and surfaces between classes. Our instructors are first aid certified and trained in child safety.
To keep all babies, parents and caregivers safe, we kindly ask that you stay home if you or your little one are unwell, especially with symptoms such as fever, vomiting, diarrhoea, rashes, conjunctivitis or any contagious illness (chickenpox, hand, foot & mouth, measles etc). Please wait 48 hours after symptoms have passed before returning to class. If you're unsure, just message us - we're always happy to advise. Your child's wellbeing, and that of the whole group, is our top priority. You can gift your space to another family if you need to miss a class.
Yes! All our instructors are first aid certified, have current DBS checks, and receive ongoing training in sensory play techniques and child safety. Our team is passionate about providing the best experience for your family.
We're committed to inclusivity. Please inform us of any allergies, sensitivities, or special needs when booking. We'll work with you to ensure a safe, comfortable experience. Our facility is nut-free, and we can accommodate most dietary restrictions. We also have experience working with children with various developmental needs.
Yes! Our facility is wheelchair accessible with ramps and accessible restrooms with changing tables. If you have specific accessibility needs, please let us know and we'll ensure everything is ready for your visit.
Yes! We have clean, private changing facilities with changing tables, wipes, and disposal bins. There's also a comfortable nursing area if needed. We want to make sure you and your little one are comfortable throughout your visit.
Additional Questions
Absolutely! Grandparents, nannies, and other family members are welcome to attend classes. Each ticket includes one baby and one adult. If an additional adult would like to join, please message us before class to let us know. We just ask that you provide the caregiver's details so we can ensure a warm welcome.
Yes! We encourage parents to capture these special moments. We ask that you be mindful of other families and avoid posting photos that include other children on social media without permission. We also take class photos that we share in our private Facebook group for enrolled families.
Our classes are held indoors, so weather rarely affects us! However, in case of severe weather or emergencies, we'll contact you via email. Any cancelled classes will be offered for rescheduling. Your safety is always our priority.
Yes! Our Whirlwind Rewards program gives you points for every class attended, referrals, and social media engagement. Points can be redeemed for free classes and discounts. You're automatically enrolled when you purchase your first package!
Follow us on social media (@tinywhirlwinds) to stay up to date with all our latest classes and events.
Still Have Questions?
Can't find the answer you're looking for? Our friendly team is here to help! Reach out and we'll get back to you as soon as possible.
Start Your Sensory Journey Today!
Join our community of happy families and give your little one the gift of play, learning, and development
Book a three-week introductory taster. No commitment required.