Parents should apply these same behaviors to their own life. The best way to lead a child to a healthy lifestyle is to set a positive example.

A great way to incorporate fun, regular physical activity into a child’s life is to enroll her in a gymnastics class. In this column, I will explore gymnastics programs that are offered in national chains with locations in many states. In addition to these, there are many local gyms. To locate one near you, ask other parents, or try a Google search of your location and “kids’ gymnastics”.

Gymboree
Ages newborn to five years
With more than five hundred locations in twenty-six countries, this popular chain offers structured play and music programs for babies and pre-school children. Among the programs offered are fitness classes, art classes, music classes, yoga and sign language. The centers are clean, spacious and brightly colored and the instructors are typically friendly and enthusiastic. Classes are divided to seven different age groups. The friendly website allows parents to select classes based on their child’s age.

My Gym
Ages three months to nine years
National chain of gymnastics centers with several locations in Maryland and Virginia. According to its website, My Gym offers structured, age-appropriate weekly classes that incorporate music, dance, relays, games, special rides, gymnastics, sports and other original activities. Kids have fun as they gain strength, balance, coordination, fine and gross motor proficiency, agility, flexibility and social skills. Classes are divided into eight age-appropriate groups.

The Little Gym
Ages four months to twelve years
The Little Gym International, Inc. is headquartered in Scottsdale, Arizona with franchises in most U.S. states and 15 countries around the world. According its website, The Little Gym offers a professionally developed, non-competitive curriculum that has been designed to build motor skills and enhance emotional, intellectual and social skills. Programs include movement, music, gymnastics, sports, exercise, games, listening and cooperation. Dance and karate classes are also offered.

J.W. Tumbles
Ages four months to nine years; 17 locations in 7 states
According to its website, the non-competitive activities at JW Tumbles Gyms are designed to enhance children’s abilities in such areas as physical skills, fine and gross motor skills, spatial awareness, coordination, balance, agility, flexibility, and sports preparation. The “Tumble Tykes” program, for ages 4 months to 3 years, requires parent participation. The JWT Kids program, for ages 3 to 9 years, offers four levels of independent classes. The gym also offers personal training and a cheerleading class.

Experts agree: “gymnastics is a great way to build physical competence and confidence while developing self-esteem. Gymnastics basics develop gross motor skills, flexibility, strength and agility. Many of these skills form the motor pathways that promote intellectual development. Gymnastics help children learn to focus, participate appropriately in a class environment, and to take directions”.