WHEN the weekly music group Exeter mum Laura Manser took her daughter to stopped running, she decided to take drastic action.

With the encouragement of other parents she set up her own weekly drop-in class at two Exeter venues. It is called Rhyming Rascals and is aimed at children under the age of three.

Laura, 35, from Mount Pleasant, who is mother to 17-month-old Aurelia, said: "There are other music classes in Exeter but a lot of those are fully booked.

"I have a drama degree and music is in my blood so I thought I would try setting up a class. It has been really good fun.

"I wanted to follow a traditional format of using really old-fashioned nursery rhymes, popular children's songs and songs people would know. I have put my own slant on them by using different percussion instruments and props.

"For instance, to do the song Raindrops Keep Falling On My Head I got a huge piece of blue material with sparkles on and made lots of pompoms. In class we stretched out the material and bounced the pompoms on it to look like raindrops.

"In each class we tend to use two different percussion instruments.

"As well as being fun for the children, it helps them obey instructions and learn good behavioural skills, such as giving the instruments back.

"They also learn language through rhythm and rhyme, which is really important for developing language and communication skills.

"Every class is different, although we do repeat songs. My aim is to provide fun in an uplifting environment which parents can enjoy as much as the little ones."

Enjoying just that was Nicole Coplin, 38, of Mount Pleasant, Exeter, and her daughter Tilly, 19 months.

Nicole said: "The classes are good fun and it's a very relaxed atmosphere.

"Tilly has only just started saying a few words, but I think singing and music definitely help with her communication. As soon as you start singing a song she recognises it and it makes her smile.

"Her favourite bit is blowing bubbles at the end while they play a very chilled song. The youngsters all just adore it and that's my favourite bit too!"

Classes are held on Mondays at Exeter Phoenix, from 11am to 11.45am. They cost £3.75 in advance, or £4 on the day. Friday classes are held at Belmont Hut, Belomont Park, Exeter, from 11am to 11.45am, costing £3.50. Family discounts are available.

Laura and a friend also plan to run half-term sessions combing music and art called Rhyming Rascals Get Arty.

For further details about the classes, call 01392 203343 or 07701 037596.