I once had a parent say to me, “I thought starting gymnastics at an early age was really bad for children’s bodies.” Well that actually couldn’t be further from the truth.
As a coach of many years, I found this comment so alarming!
As parents, caregivers, and educators, we all want the best for our children. From healthy meals to good sleep, we strive to ensure they grow up happy, strong, and resilient.
But did you know that movement is one of the most crucial building blocks for your child's development?
Early gymnastics not only encourages physical activity but also supports brain development, social skills, and emotional well-being.
Movement and Brain Development: The Science Behind It
Being active and moving is not just about physical fitness; it is very much connected to brain development. During the early years, a child’s brain forms millions of neural connections that help children learn, explore, and make sense of the world. Physical activities like gymnastics stimulate these connections by engaging the body's senses, balance, and coordination.
In gymnastics, every class incorporates balance, tumbling, jumping and rolling – all elements that require the brain and body to work together. This enhances cognitive functions such as spatial awareness, focus, and problem-solving.
Why movement matters: Children who engage in structured physical activities develop stronger neural pathways that improve learning and concentration.
The Physical Benefits of Early Gymnastics
As mentioned previously, gymnastics participation requires children to roll, crawl, balance and jump all of which create a strong foundation for future physical activities.
These movements build:
Core Strength: Essential for balance and stability.
Coordination: Helps children gain control over their bodies.
Flexibility: Encourages a greater range of motion and injury prevention.
Motor Skills: Fine and gross motor skills are developed through repeated practice.
Did You Know? The World Health Organization (WHO) recommends that children under 5 years engage in at least 3 hours of physical activity per day. Structured programs like gymnastics make this fun and achievable!
Social and Emotional Benefits of Movement
While the physical perks of gymnastics are clear, the social and emotional benefits are just as important. Participating in gymnastics allows children to interact with peers, follow instructions, and gain confidence in a supportive environment.
When an athlete masters a new skill like a forward roll or an independent balance on the beam, it gives them a sense of accomplishment which in turn boosts their confidence.
Social skills are also enhanced in our class settings as children have to learn to take turns, share and work as a team. The game components and challenges build resilience and allows our children to ‘learn to lose’.
And one very important benefit of movement, especially in these times of social anxiety and dysregulation, is emotional regulation. Movement releases endorphins – the ‘happy hormones’ – that reduce anxiety and improve mood.
Psychologist and child development specialist Dr. Laura Markham states: “Movement helps children feel grounded, calm, and confident in their own bodies.”
When children have physical competence, they tend to face challenges with curiosity and resilience—abilities that benefit them throughout their lives.
Why Start Gymnastics Early?
The early years (6 months to 6 years) are a golden window for physical development. Young children are naturally curious and eager to move, making this the perfect time to introduce structured movement activities.
By participating in gymnastics and movement at an early age, we are creating healthy habits for life and contributing to the prevention of sedentary habits. And of course, the health benefits; regular physical activity supports muscles, healthy bones and cardiovascular health. Gymnastics really does give your child a head start in life!
Real Stories: Movement in Action
At Next Steps Movement Studio, we’ve witnessed countless children grow stronger, happier, and more confident through movement. We hear from so many parents that their gymnastics class has helped with their confidence, it has made them stronger, they take the skills they learn in class and transfer them to the playground.
Consider Sophie, a 3-year-old who was initially shy and reluctant to engage in new activities. After only a few weeks of gymnastics classes, she began climbing, balancing, and even leading warm-up exercises with her peers. Her parents observed a notable increase in her confidence both in the gym and beyond.
The Takeaway: Movement Matters for Every Child
In a world increasingly dominated by screens and sedentary activities, movement is more important than ever. Early gymnastics provides children with the tools they need to grow physically, mentally, and emotionally. Whether it’s a baby exploring tummy time or a 4-year-old mastering their first cartwheel, every movement counts.
As Dr. John Ratey (associate clinical professor of psychiatry) reminds us:
“The more active children are, the better their brains will work. Movement builds the body, but it also builds the mind.”
Ready to Get Moving?
If you’re ready to introduce your child to the joy of movement, join one of our gymnastics classes today. Children can start as young as 6 months! Let’s help your child build strength, confidence, and a lifelong love of physical activity—one roll, jump, and giggle at a time!
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