Gymboree
| Published: 1st May 2008 19:33 |
Gymboree - an unique pre-school children's programme !
By Rachel Swann of Gymboree Leeds
Gymboree is the worlds largest developmental programme for pre-school children and has been running for over 30 years. Started by Californian mum Joan Barnes in 1976, it grew from a desire to have a greater involvement in her children's development through play. 30 years and a great deal of research later Gymboree is now a growing concept in the UK and since January 2006, Rachel Swann and Chris Grennan have been bringing the fantastic world of Gymboree to North Leeds.
What is it?
Gymboree is a developmental programme - meaning that all round development is encouraged; including language, socialization, physical skills, number and shapes as well as a vast number of other concepts. Gymboree works through 7 age specific levels starting at newborn to ensure promotion of the key skills necessary to that particular age and ability.
So what do the children do?
The children just have fun! All of the concepts and development are encouraged through play, fun amd music. Bright colours and exciting props and equipment form the basis of all the classes and everyone leaves with a smile on their face. There are also bubbles and parachute games, dancing, singing and musical instruments all delivered by enthusiastic teachers who love being there!
What can they do with babies?
The babies level is the most exciting; this is the level where we see the most change and progress and where the mums benefit the most. Lisa, health visitor and mum, explains why her newborn son loved Gymboree "Initially I was apprehensive and thought my newborn son would be too young to appreciate group activities. However, he loves the sensory stimulation, equipment and songs at Gymboree. It is also a great way to meet other local mums with similar aged babies, I would highly recommend it."
And older children?
All the classes involve the parents in play with their children. The classes allow parents to enjoy their children, learn with them and to see them develop as they have fun. The class is a mixture of physical play, concept development and musical activities as well as allowing both carers and children to socialise with each other; says Heather, "Chris and Rachel have developed a warm and friendly culture, even when moving up into the next class we were welcomed by the other members." Chris is keen to point out too that mums, dads, grannies, aunts uncles, nannies and any other carers are welcome to bring children along, and we also welcome visitors with the regular caregiver too!
Why choose Gymboree?
Gymboree has not only been running for 30 years but have been changing and developing their programme in line with research into children's development and best practice for learning. This means that children are encouraged to be independent and are never forced to join in with activities. Children are able to learn more if they are engaged in what they are doing, so as long as mum (or any carer) stays close then we know they are safe, making progress and learning key skills. This makes us as parents feel more confident and puts less pressure on us when we feel that our children don't want to join in. Here at Gymboree we know that it is natural and we don't worry at all if children hang back and watch or do their own thing.
Should I wait until my child is a bit older?
If your little one is under 5 then we have a class designed for their age and ability. It doesn't matter how young they are and even if they don't appear to join in, they are watching and learning - give it a few weeks and you'll see their confidence grow!
How do I join?
See www.gymboree-uk.com/leeds or call us on 0770 204 8391 to book a FREE trial session. This is no obligation and no cost, but class spaces are limited, so we do need you to book in.
Our most local classes are based on Lidgett Lane on Fridays and Saturdays, so give us a call on 0770 204 8391 and we'll look forward to meeting you soon.
