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My son is 18 months old and has done My Gym since he was 9 months old. He loves it. We also go to a class at the local adult school that is technically a "parenting" class, but is really more like a mommy and me program. It's in a little preschool type classroom, there's an outside area, we do art projects, as well as break into small groups for discussions (with the rest of the moms managing the children). It was really affordable; around $200/semester (January-June) and that even included a field trip.

I think those things are great for 18 months old. I love teaching those classes. Things I look for in a good program is that the parents are with them almost the entire time (some specific independent time is good). That the class is semi structured in which things happen in a pattern (warm up song, game, song, game, ending activity) but within those, running off is not an issue. Also, often at this age the kids just stand and stare. That's okay because you will see them through the week doing that activities even if they don't do them there. I like structure (myGym is great but too unstructured for me) but if you aren't into that, then make sure it is as unstructured as you want it to be.

Make sure it is fun and entertaining. There are some programs that take themselves too serious.

I think 18 months is the perfect time to start something. We did join my gym, but dropped it cuz I didn't like this one teacher. But I really liked it, had structured and no structured time and time for independent play. Right now though, we do a mommy n me program at a church. I think now is a better time for mommy n me type classes. Try going on meetup.com to find a group near your area. Good luck!