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Free play has a positive effect on children’s motor development but not as effective as purposeful, organized exercise programs like recreational gymnastics. Recreational gymnastics, which is a non-competitive and inclusive fun and learning environment, maximizes play while also teaching children motor skills, coordination, communication, problem-solving, discipline, and focus. As well, recreational gymnastics teaches children how to challenge themselves and to reach their full potential through body- and situational-awareness.
Research shows that lack of movement in young children negatively affects motor skills, social interaction, and communication. Participation and performance gymnastics, such as recreational and team gymnastics, are two ways parents can help their children develop these skills. Parents can also add more purposeful playful movement at home to help their children physically, mentally, and socially develop.
According to movement researcher Jeffrey Coelho, “Children who are physically active from an early age and have positive, enjoyable, and successful movement experiences in the early stages of life will likely continue to engage in and pursue activity on a regular basis.”
For parents who are new to gymnastics or want to get their children or teenagers started with gymnastics, start with the beginning participation class at our gym! LINK
Try This At Home:
Have a family game of hopscotch once a week to improve every family member’s coordination.
Take family swim lessons once a week or during the summer to improve every family member’s motor skills, communication, and body awareness.
Go on a family hike or walking trail once a week to improve every family member’s spatial awareness and observational skills.
Want to Learn More? Read This!
Rida Ouerghi’s My First Book of Gymnastics (children’s book with illustrated pictures)
Gill Connell and Cheryl McCarthy’s A Moving Child is a Learning Child: How the Body Teaches the Brain to Think (Birth to Age 7)
Carol Kranowitz’s Growing an In-Sync Child: Simple, Fun Activities to Help Every Child Develop, Learn, and Grow
Carol Archer and Iram Sira’s Encouraging Physical Development through Movement-Play
Lawrence J. Cohen’s Playful Parenting: An Exciting New Approach to Raising Children that will Help You Nurture Close Connections, Solve Behavior Problems, and Encourage Confidence
Work Cited
Coelho, Jeffrey. “Gymnastics and Movement Instruction.” Journal of Physical Education, Recreation & Dance, vol. 81, no. 1, 2010, pp. 14-18, DOI: 10.1080/07303084.2010.10598409. LINK
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