Fibre Optic Tails & Baby Classes

When I first created my baby development classes, I really wanted Fibre Optic tails - I wanted those 'ooh' moments when the lights were dimmed and I invested a lot, and I mean a lot of money into a set.  

Ten months later, I stopped using them in my classes but my love affair with them has never really ceased.  

I realised, sadly, they weren't for me (I still have that beautiful set safely stored in my garage and yes I do sometimes play with them myself) but are they for you and your classes?

In this blog I'm going to explore the pros & cons of using them in baby classes so you can make an informed decision before parting with your cash.

Pros of using Fibre Optics in a Baby Class

1. Sensory Stimulation

   • Sight - Fibre optic tails are mesmerising when they move through the spectrum of colours or gently pulse. The changing lights help to develop visual tracking skills and language development
   • Touch - The soft, flexible nature of fibre optic tails lying on the floor like a pile of spaghetti encourages babies to touch and explore 

2. Attention and Focus

   • Engaging - The captivating lights and textures of fibre optic tails can really hold a baby’s attention supporting the development of focus and concentration.
   • Calming Effect - The gentle, flowing lights can have a soothing effect on babies, so may help to create a peaceful atmosphere

3. Encourages Exploration

   • Curiosity and Discovery: Babies are naturally curious, and fibre optic tails can stimulate a desire to explore and interact with their environment, supporting cognitive development.
   • Safe Interaction: Designed with safety in mind, fibre optic tails offer a secure way for babies to explore light and texture.  They do not generate heat

4. Sociability

   • Used in a class, fibre optic tails can support social development as the babies explore en masse
5. Photo Opportunities
   • There is no doubt that parents/carers love photographing their babies exploring fibre optics and sharing the images on social media.  This provides a constant supply of marketing material and business visibility

The Cons of Using Fibre Optic Tails in Baby Classes

1. Safety

   • Supervision Required: While designed to be safe, fibre optic tails still require close supervision to ensure they are used properly and to prevent any potential choking hazards or misuse.
   • Durability: Over time, and with rough handling, the fibres can become damaged, which might pose a safety risk if not regularly inspected and maintained. 

2. Cost Implications

   • Initial Investment: High-quality fibre optic tails are expensive, which may be a barrier for some baby classes with limited budgets.

3. Potential Overstimulation

   • Sensory Overload: For some babies, especially those with sensory processing issues, the bright colours Red, Neons and rapid colour changing are   overwhelming and lead to overstimulation so should be avoided.  Instead use greens, pastel colours and blues

So are you in team Yes or team No?  

Or still undecided?

As I said at the start, I love them.  

Babies love them, many parents love them, they are a big Wow factor but they are also a big investment - a basic 2 metre set of tails and light box start at £300 at TTS Group.

Ultimately I found it too nerve wracking seeing the tails being chewed and essentially damaged class after class which is why I removed them, to me it was like burning money.  

I'd love to know your thoughts.  

Do you lust after them?  Do you use them?  

Did you use them and stop?

If so, why and if you are a 'I absolutely love them' where did you buy your's from