From Midwife to Movement: My Journey with Tappy Toes

Dance Classes Coming to Bedford

My name is Felicity Bonnett (Flic) and I am your Tappy Toes dance teacher for the Bedford region!

I grew up in Flitwick, Bedford and moved to Wootton as my family expanded. I danced for many years as a child, right into my teenage years, taking part in RAD Ballet, Modern and Tap classes weekly.

For years, my life revolved around helping parents welcome their little ones into the world. As a midwife, I was privileged to witness the beauty of new beginnings, offering guidance and reassurance to families during one of the most transformative times of their lives. But when I had my own children, my perspective shifted in ways I never expected. Suddenly, I wasn’t just a professional supporting others—I was a mum, navigating the joys and challenges of early childhood firsthand.

Felicity Bonnett Tappy Toes Dance Teacher

Amid the whirlwind of sleepless nights, first steps, and endless curiosity, I started looking for ways to support my children’s development beyond the basics. That’s when I discovered Tappy Toes, and little did I know, it would change the course of my journey.

From Midwife to Mum: A New Perspective

As a midwife, I understood the importance of early development—how every tiny movement helps build strength, coordination, and confidence. But as a mum, I saw it play out in real time. My little ones were bundles of energy, constantly exploring, climbing, and dancing before they could even form full sentences. I wanted to nurture that natural love of movement in a way that was fun, engaging, and beneficial for their growth.

That’s when I found Tappy Toes, a movement and dance program designed for babies, toddlers, and young children. It was more than just a dance class—it was a space where little ones could build confidence, improve coordination, and develop key social skills, all while having an absolute blast.

Why Movement Matters for Early Development

From my midwifery days, I knew that movement is crucial for early development. Babies begin their journey with reflexive movements, gradually gaining control as they grow. Encouraging movement from an early age strengthens muscles, improves balance, and even supports cognitive development. But beyond the science, I saw the joy that movement brought to my own children—how music and dance lit up their faces, how they expressed themselves without words, and how they connected with others through playful interactions.

Midwife to movement

For parents, carers, grandparents, nurseries, and schools, movement-based activities like Tappy Toes offer so much more than just exercise. They create opportunities for bonding, enhance children’s emotional well-being, and set the foundation for a lifelong love of being active.

The Tappy Toes Difference

What I love most about Tappy Toes is how inclusive and accessible it is. You don’t need any prior dance experience—just a willingness to join in the fun! The classes are carefully designed to suit different age groups, making them perfect for little ones who are just finding their feet or older children ready to explore rhythm and coordination.

Since discovering Tappy Toes, I’ve seen first-hand how it can transform a child’s confidence. It took me back to the many years I spent dancing as a child, and I was reminded of everything that dance bought to my life! Whether it’s a shy toddler taking their first steps onto the dance floor or a lively preschooler twirling with excitement, movement becomes a tool for expression, growth, and pure happiness.

Midwife to movement

A Journey Worth Taking

Looking back, I never imagined that my path would lead from midwifery to discovering the power of movement in a completely new way. But as I embrace this new chapter, I feel incredibly grateful for the journey. If you’re a parent, carer, grandparent, or educator looking for a way to support your child’s development, I wholeheartedly encourage you to explore movement-based activities like Tappy Toes. It’s not just about dancing—it’s about confidence, connection, and laying the foundation for a bright and active future.

Classes in Bedford

Why not give it a try? You might just find, like I did, that a little movement can lead to big changes.

Book a three week trial with me here My first classes will be launching after Easter in Marston Mortaine, Cranfield, Stewartby and Lidlington, but I plan on expanding further afield as demand increases. If you would like a class in a different area of Bedford, please get in touch and let me know. If you know of a local school or nursery who may wish to add my classes to their weekly schedules please do put them in touch as I'd love to visit these settings and spread the Tappy Toes joy there too!

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