13/08/2026
BUILDING A FIRM FOUNDATION
Developing the brain is much like building a house. The entire house is already part of the plan, but it is built in a specific sequence, from the bottom up.
Over the years, Dr Melodie de Jager developed the De Jager Model of Development, which emphasises that physical development is a major developmental priority during the first year of life. She describes physical development as the foundation of the house — the foundation upon which the integrity of the entire structure is built.
As BabyGym Instructors, we are passionate about equipping parents, educators and professionals with an understanding of how massage and playful activities at home can soothe the nervous system, stimulate the senses, strengthen muscles and support the integration of primitive reflexes. In this way, babies don’t simply reach physical milestones such as rolling, sitting, crawling and walking; they are also laying the neurological foundations for the developmental milestones that follow.
In other words, we help build an exceptionally firm foundation for the emotional, social and cognitive development that lies ahead for many years to come.
When the body and brain work together as a team, children are better equipped to thrive academically, in sports and in cultural activities. Most importantly, they are free to enjoy their childhood to the fullest.
Our five-week programme for babies from 6 weeks to 14 months is called BabyGym Firm Foundation — and now you know why!
In Afrikaans, the title translates as BabaGim 2: Ferm Grondslag, because we are laying the foundation for a child’s entire future.
https://babygym.co.za/
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