STIMULATED babies are smarter and happier babies which is why a soft play centre has expanded to include a purpose-built sensory baby hub.

Carmen Saunders, 34, opened the doors to the larger Go Bananas at Mason Road, Colchester, where a lively bunch of youngsters rolled on air beds, activity mats and crawled through tunnels.

This is just part of what the new and improved centre has to offer alongside 16 classes a week focusing on aspects of early child development.

Parents will also have access to baby massage and yoga classes.

The mum-of-two said: “During the first 13 months of a baby’s life their brain grows significantly so the idea is the stimulation in this time helps them for the future.

“Our classes have been designed by psychologists and they’re fun. Happy mums equate to happy babies so we offer support so they feel more confident.

“In this day and age you get a lot of stay-at-home dads so our classes aren’t too feminine.

"It’s an inclusive environment and we get lots of nannies and foster carers as the classes help to build those bonds.”

Classes run on a five-week term basis. To trial a class for free call Carmen Saunders on 07515000093.