Gymnastics gets pre-schooler’s tick of approval

Aria finds her passion and confidence with gymnastics

Finding an activity a pre-schooler can connect with is often a challenge. There are plenty to choose from and it often takes time to find an activity that ticks the boxes for motor and cognitive development, as well as getting the pre-schooler’s tick of approval.

For Craigieburn mum, Irene, there was no shortage of trials and tribulations when presenting her daughter, Aria, with a suite of activities and sports for her daughter to try out. From dance and ballet to basketball and karate, Aria tried out many different activities but most ended in a puddle of tears and refusal to continue.

“Aria tried a lot of different activities and she always cried during class and didn’t want to participate,” said Irene.

“I discovered BK’s Gymnastics in Craigieburn on the way to my son’s basketball training and it didn’t take long for Aria to fall in love with the sport.

“Since joining BK’s Gymnastics Aria has found her passion. Not once has she cried in class or wanted me to be by her side.”

Aria, now 6 years of age, began her weekly lessons at age 4.5 and was immediately drawn to her coach, Tara and the other children in her class.

“She’s made lots of friends, she loves all her coaches and she asks me every day, ‘do I have gymnastics today?’. For me this is the perfect sign that she loves it! The team at BK’s Gymnastics Craigieburn simply rock.”

For Aria, the diversity of the lessons, combined with fun and new challenges is what she loves about her weekly Wednesday class.

“My favourite thing is the crab walks on the bars and the flips. I love gymnastics and I love Tara. Gymnastics makes me happy,” Aria says.

Aria’s love for gymnastics also extends into her home, where she enjoys practising her new skills.

Irene recently purchased a yoga mat so Aria can do her moves in the lounge room.

Irene said it was great having videos that were accessible from home on the BK’s Gymnastics Craigieburn Facebook page that helped explain how to do key gymnastics moves including forward rolls and cartwheels.

“Watching her in the lounge room, naming the exercises and doing them, shows me that she listened during class and also enjoys what she’s doing,” Irene adds.

“Aria also loves watching gymnastics on YouTube, especially the rhythmic gymnastics.”

For information on kids’ gymnastics, or to learn about BK’s Gymnastics programs, see here.