That’s what children say each class in the mobile, preschool gymnastics program known as Happy Day Gymagery. The program is the brain child of collegiate gymnast, Rona Smith, who had a desire to teach Gymnastics to preschoolers, but was challenged by their lack of motor skills and their short attention spans. Determined, Smith looked to take the lead from the children and developed a revolutionary approach of teaching through storytelling, music and appropriately challenging physical activities. All of elements of the classes engage the children in her signature “Movement Adventure.”
Why, you might ask do children love this program so much…asking their parents if today is ”Gymagery day”, over and over? …Chanting “I love Gymagery” upon arrival to their schools? From the outer appearance it looks to be an ordinary class with teachers and lots of colorful props. Below the surface however, is a class inspired by the developmental needs of the young child. The teachers are not just teachers but adept story tellers and the props are not just props but unusual, sensory motor equipment. It is a unique class based on PLAY! The foundation of the class relies on the belief that imaginative play helps to develop the child emotionally, socially and psychologically. By honing their uses of language, problem solving, and development of empathy, each session works to promote growth of skills that will help carry them successfully through life. No amount of technology can meet the needs of the human brain and body like imaginative play. What could be more valuable than that?
Some of the latest Neuroscience research finds that nothing lights up all the centers of the brain like imaginative play. We are wired to love things that nourish our body/ brain connection. Gymagery does exactly that! Because the classes are taught as “Movement Adventures” without competition at the core, even the most shy or hesitant child begins to blossom in these classes. There are plenty of opportunities for competition later on – both academically and physically, but these early years are meant for PLAY! That’s why “Gymagery is fun for me!”
For more information please contact Happy Day Gymagery at (808) 283-8696 or 280-4470. Photo credit: Jeremy Ota
