ED GYM: WHAT IS IT AND HOW DOES IT WORK?

Educational Gymnastics is a movement-based program where children develop and grow in a fun and challenging environment. Children will extend not only their physical skills, but will develop language, thinking and social skills.

The program is for children 5 years and under and their caregiver to explore and practise skills at their own rate in a safe, structured environment.

WHAT CAN YOU EXPECT THE CHILD TO LEARN/EXPERIENCE?

· Your child will develop mentally, socially, emotionally, physically and intellectually. · To take instructions. · Improved motor skills/co-ordination · Trust, co-operation, communication · Freedom to explore · Discipline - sharing/taking turns · Size, colour, dimension

WHY ARE PARENTS INVOLVED?

Young children work best with individual instruction and individual help with waiting and listening. By participating in the program, parents help their child become familiar with the environment and its routines. This makes the child feel comfortable and furthers their enjoyment of the program.

PARENTAL ROLE IN THE PROGRAM:

· Help your child explore and challenge · Help your child follow instructions · Treat your child as an individual - each child develops skills at different ages and to differing degrees. Let your child develop at his/her own pace. · Help your child practice good waiting and listening when appropriate. · Ensure your child's safety by preventing him/her using equipment before or after classes · Enjoy yourself!

Note: The caregiver's attitude and involvement is usually a major determinant in the child's attitude and involvement to physical activity for life.

WHAT TO WEAR:

Send your child in comfortable clothing. Eg. Shorts and t-shirt in summer tracksuits in winter. Bare feet is best. Soft-soled sneakers may be worn in winter. Children may not wear shoes with buckles as they rip the vinyl covers.