Meet a Mom
Michelle Garcia
Zumbini
Meet Michelle
“Some adults may think a baby can’t learn from this class.. a reason this class is beneficial, especially for babies is because they are fast learners! Before they were born, a baby can hear their mother’s heartbeat, so a beat is already something familiar. They also hear music, sounds & voices from the outside. As fast as they can learn to nurse or suck a pacifier, they can also learn quickly about music & learning early on! Many classes I’ve come across is more for toddlers & not so much babies which is a BIG reason I wanted to teach even more!”
Get to know Michelle
If you could describe yourself in one word, what would it be and why?
What’s one thing people would be surprised to know about you?
Anyone special you’d like to thank for helping you along your motherhood journey?
The good Lord & my husband is to thank for my motherhood journey! My husband wasn’t sure if we would be able to afford for me to stay home but God has helped us manage now for more than 4 years.
Your best shortcut or routine for helping you through parenthood?
Daily Routine for sure helps me through everyday parenthood. My kids know as soon as we wake up what needs to happen. The day before, I always tell my babies what we are doing the next day so they know what to expect (which is why I love my calendar so much).
What advice would you give to the “old you” before you had kids?
I would certainly tell my old self to enjoy life & have fun (that’s pretty much what I did anyway). Once marriage & children enter life, everything changes! It’s no longer about “you” anymore.
Can you tell us the story behind the name Zumbini with Shelly D? What inspired you to start this business?
The reason I chose Zumbini with ShellyD is because Shelly is my nickname and the D comes from Desiree, my middle name. I was named after my grandfather (Michael Ray) who passed away 1 month before I was born.
What are the main benefits of Zumbini that people might not be aware of?
One thing about Zumbini is that it was created from Zumba (so there is a little flare) and BabyFirst which is a children’s channel. Zumbini is also offered on some Carnival cruises! Zumba Kids is another program for children ages 7-11. The benefits of Zumbini first & foremost is the bonding you get with your child/ children! Life gets the best of everyone at some point & our kiddos grow up so fast so if 45 minutes with your little one dancing, singing, and learning can help bring you & your child closer, then why not? There are 4 volumes/ seasons of original music per year so every quarter, volumes change so children don’t get bored with the same music all year! The volumes are named after Zumbini’s 4 characters, Kalino, TJ, Hili and Jose. Zumbini also helps with cognitive, social, fine/gross motor skills & emotional development.
How does your personal experience as a mom influence your approach to organizing spaces?
I believe organizing has always been a strong factor of mine. How I organize everything before children has very much helped me organize as a mother. It also helps me understand that other mothers may forget or remember just as much as I do. We’re not alone!
Many people find it challenging to find day to day activities for their small children. What advice do you have for someone who wants to connect with their babies through music and dance but might not know where to start?
In January 2020, my daughter was born so until 2021, it was just me & her most of the time. I noticed once we started going out & around other family and friends that she freaked out EVERY TIME! She was scared of people, vehicles, sounds. That’s when I noticed I have to get her out & about more so she can feel comfortable outside her home. I found a free, 30-minute art class for her age & signed her up! I was scared myself leaving our home but it was needed for my daughter’s growth. She was a year and a half when I first took her, she’s 4 now. I also take my 1-year-old son. Then I realized that public libraries have so many free events also for children of all ages. I would recommend for families that may not know where to start, search for facilities near you that have children’s programs. Do a free class or maybe pay a small fee until you get comfortable. My daughter enjoys getting out of the house & we’re doing events at least 5 times a week!
Can you walk us through the process of working with a client? What can someone expect when they attend Zumbini?
If you sign up for Zumbini, know you & your little’s are very important! It means so much that you have taken the time to wake up, get dressed & ready for my class, WOW! You will receive a Welcome Letter, information, session schedule & my contact info. Expect to participate with your child the whole class while we sing, dance, play instruments & enjoy the 1 on 1 time.
What tips or tricks can you offer to help our readers?
Tips & tricks I can offer is to have an open mind. I know we as adults may not want to get on the floor or do goofy dances anymore but it means SO MUCH to your child. Who cares what anyone thinks? Your children are little once so enjoy them as much as possible with whatever makes them happy!
Lastly, what advice would you give to someone who is considering coming to a Zumbini Class, but is hesitant to take the first step?
Happy Hour for you & Your Baby!
