Gymnastics Classes with Edith

I never would have guessed that Edith would have liked the balance beam so much.

But thanks to a toddler gymnastics class we're taking, I've realized she's not quite the fraidy-cat I've taken her for!

One of the benefits to our location is that the local rec center is a nice walk (or extremely short drive) away. And one of the benefits to the rec center is the variety of classes it offers throughout the year for kids and adults. This gymnastics class was the first we've signed up for -- only $30 for about two months of weekly classes.

Edith seems to love them, and it's been a great excuse to get out of the house on cold, snowy mornings and burn some energy. The classes certainly aren't about serious gymnastics -- this is a class of 18- to 30-month-olds, after all. But they do have gymnastics elements.

The first part of the 45-minute class is spent in free play -- jumping on the tumbling trampoline, hanging on the bars, playing with and on the mats scattered around the floor. Then we do a routine of songs with the kids that involves some kind of movement. After that: A real gymnastics skill, like somersaults, head stands or walking along the balance beam (with help, of course). The class ends with the group playing on and under a giant, colorful parachute.

I'll be sad when the class ends next week, and I would bet that Edith echoes my feelings. I expect we'll be taking advantage of further rec center offerings as she grows older.