Sheffield baby group hosts virtual children's birthday parties during lockdown

A Sheffield mum is continuing to host online celebrations for children’s birthdays while the country remains in lockdown due to the coronavirus.
By Lizzie Day
Published 20th May 2020, 18:32 BST
Updated 20th May 2020, 18:32 BST
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Claire Eaden, 34, from Millhouses is hosting virtual birthday parties for children who would have had their celebrations cancelled because of the Covid-19 pandemic.

The mother, who runs Music Bugs Sheffield – a sensory focused class for parents and children – has helped mark special milestones by using video chats to have a online party for little ones during lockdown.

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Claire, who recently hosted a one-year-old’s jungle themed birthday party via webcam, explained what it means to parents to be able to celebrate virtually.

A child enjoying one of Claire's virtual music classes during lockdown.A child enjoying one of Claire's virtual music classes during lockdown.
A child enjoying one of Claire's virtual music classes during lockdown.

“They said it made a massive difference to have something to look forward to but help make the day special for them – especially for younger children who don't fully understand what's going on.

“I think it's really nice to make a bit more fuss for them, to make it special and even though it might not be what they expected before, it is helping them do something a little more different, seeing their friends and all enjoying something together.”

Before the virus hit, Music Bugs usually held weekly 40 minute interactive classes at Ranmoor Parish Centre, Banner Cross and Hillsborough Morrisons for children below five.

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Business owner Claire moved her baby sessions online when lockdown was enforced on March 23 and has been leading the sessions via video chat ever since.

Claire's son, Oliver dons a chef outfit for a zoom party.Claire's son, Oliver dons a chef outfit for a zoom party.
Claire's son, Oliver dons a chef outfit for a zoom party.

The classes which usually involved group activities such as parachute games and bubble popping are now being done individually, from the comfort of parents’ living rooms.

Claire said: "I just wanted to do something because I know how difficult it is entertaining a little one full time at home, so I still wanted to give them that entertainment really.

"A lot of parents are saying they are really enjoying having a little bit of structure to their week and the older ones are talking saying 'I want music bugs' so it's nice for them to have that to look forward to.

"It's a thirty minute breather for parents to sit back for a minute and not have to be entertaining.”

Related topics:Sheffield