As parents, we are constantly seeking the perfect activities to support our young ones and their physical development. If you are on the lookout for an activity that will not only stimulate your baby or toddler’s brain development but also enhance their balance, hand-eye coordination, independence, and physical abilities, including flexibility and bone density, look no further. We have the ideal solution for you: baby and toddler gymnastics.
While gymnastics is often associated with older children and athletes, it is also a fantastic choice for newborns and toddlers aged newborn to 3 years olds. In this article, we will delve into the top five benefits of enrolling your little one in a baby or toddler gymnastics class.
Balance
Engaging newborns and toddlers in gymnastics serves as a valuable cornerstone for their development, especially of balance. In toddler gymnastics classes there is a focus on activities such as tummy time, guided standing, and gentle rolling exercises to form a foundation for the cultivation of a robust sense of balance. This early exposure lays the groundwork for the enhancement of physical prowess and coordination, establishing a pathway for their growth. Especially, since the age of newborn to 3 years old is a time of some of the greatest development for your child with milestones such as sitting up, crawling or taking their first steps. Gymnastics will accelerate an enhanced sense of balance which will soothe the transitions.
Hand-eye-coordination
Hand-eye coordination, an important facet of a child’s developmental journey, receives a positive impetus from baby and toddler gymnastics. The deliberate movements which are part of specific baby and preschooler’s gymnastic exercises, encompassing actions like reaching for objects and tracking dynamic stimuli like balls, contribute to strengthening the vital connection between visual input and physical response. The introduction of gymnastics at an early age to your child acts as a catalyst, laying the groundwork for the seamless integration of physical and cognitive skills as a child matures and might want to add other sports alongside their gymnastics journey.
Independence
Independence is a trait cherished by parents and is nurtured in gymnastics baby and toddler classes. Enrolling toddlers in gymnastic classes provides them with a structured environment to explore and experiment with their physical capabilities, fostering a growing sense of confidence and autonomy. Early participation in such organised and safe physical activities not only promotes the development of self-regulation but also cultivates a sense of self-assurance. This will set the base for an increasingly independent and confident child who is ready to take on our busy world.
Flexibility
Flexibility stands as an important aspect of a child’s physical growth, and gymnastics classes are an enjoyable way for your kid to cultivate increased flexibility. The ‘stretchiness’ of your baby and toddler is the ability to move all their joints and muscles through a normal range of motion (ROM). The incorporation of stretching exercises in gymnastic routines subtly encourages flexibility development, fostering this broad range of motion in joints and muscles. These fluid movements not only contribute to immediate physical benefits but also establish a foundation for enduring flexibility. The advantages extend beyond the present, potentially safeguarding against injuries, helping their posture and promoting sustained health as children progress through their developmental stages.
Increased bone density
In parallel with flexibility, gymnastics holds the opportunity to fortify the bone density of your baby or toddler. The weight-bearing activities inherent in gymnastic exercises, such as controlled jumps, landings, and movements that support the body’s weight, introducing mechanical stress to the bones which will help the remodelling process to strengthen the bones throughout their development. As children advance in age, the groundwork laid by gymnastics paves the way for resilient bones, potentially mitigating the risk of fractures and even conditions like osteoporosis in their later years.
In conclusion, gymnastics emerges as a multifaceted highway for the well-rounded development of newborns and toddlers, supporting their balance, hand-eye coordination, independence, confidence, flexibility, and bone density. Beyond mere physical benefits, these advantages serve as the foundation of an active and healthy lifestyle. Toddlers and babies enrolled in gymnastics classes will benefit from improved safety and confidence. Plus, it’s a great way to meet like-minded parents who are also dedicated to their children’s development. These classes provide a supportive community in which you and your child can form long-lasting friendships.
About the House of GPA:
Welcome to the House of GPA – your destination for Gymnastics and Performing Arts in the heart of Balham. Our mission is to offer top classes for all age groups, from newborns to adults, ensuring a premium learning experience. In our gymnastics programme, we cater to everyone, from Baby Classes to Children Classes (ages 3-16), with options for both adults and private lessons. Our Performing Arts classes encompass Dance, Singing, and Acting, thoughtfully grouped by age, spanning from 3 to 16 years old. Our intimate class sizes promote growth and self-expression. Join us on Balham High Street and embark on a journey of skill development, artistic exploration, and a strong sense of community.