Active Start Resources
Active Start Frequently Asked Questions
1. When can my child start gymnastics?
We ask that all children are confidently walking before starting gymnastics, as we do lots of activities during warm-up and throughout the class that require them to move in different ways.
For everyone’s safety, children must also be able to stay with their parent or supporting adult, remain within arm’s reach, and stay with the group throughout the class. This helps keep both your child and the other children in the class safe.
2. Should I be concerned if my child cries, becomes upset or has difficulty participating during their first few Parent & Tot classes?
Not at all! This is completely normal, particularly during a child’s first few visits to the gym. The gymnastics space can sometimes feel overwhelming to young children — there is lots to look at, new sounds to hear, new people, different movements and plenty happening around them.
If your child becomes overwhelmed or needs a break, all we ask is that you take them into the lobby or just outside for some fresh air and give them the time they need. You are absolutely welcome to return to the class whenever your child is ready.
It may take a few classes for your child to become familiar and comfortable with the environment, and that’s okay. Your coach will be happy to welcome you both back into the class whenever you’re ready.
3. When is my child ready to move into a 3-year-old independent class?
Your child must be 3 years old before starting one of our independent 3-year-old classes. However, turning 3 doesn’t mean they have to move up straight away — children are welcome to stay in Parent & Tot classes until they are ready for more independence.
To participate in an independent class, your child should be working towards being comfortable separating from their parent. Parents are welcome to remain in our lobby, which has windows looking into the main gym.
For children who need a little support making the move to independent classes, we offer a four-week Parent Transition Program. Over the four weeks, parent involvement is gradually reduced, with the goal of the child being ready to come into class independently at the end of the transition period.
If your child is already comfortable separating from you and participating independently, the transition program is not required.
4. Does the same adult need to attend Parent & Tot class with my child each week?
No. Different adults are welcome to attend and support your child from week to week. However, any adult entering the gym to support your child must have completed a Companion Waiver before entering the gym space. The QR code to fill out a Companion Waiver is always posted on the noticeboard before entering the gym.
5. Do I need to be physically capable to accompany my child to a Parent & Tot class?
To a degree. You need to be comfortable walking on a sprung gymnastics floor and other uneven or soft surfaces, such as squishy mats.
Your role is to support your child with their gymnastics — you are not in class to do gymnastics yourself! However, depending on your child’s age, confidence and support needs, you may need to physically hold, guide or spot them during some activities.
Your coach will show you how to safely support and spot your child, but the physical spotting and hands-on support will be your responsibility throughout the class.
6. How are Active Start classes structured?
All of our Active Start classes begin with approximately 10 minutes of warm-up, including a song and some simple stretches and movements.
In Parent & Tot classes, children then move through two different circuits where they can explore a variety of gymnastics equipment while developing fundamental movement skills appropriate to their age and stage.
In Kinderkids classes, children typically rotate between bars, beam and floor, spending around 10 minutes at each. They work on many of the same fundamental skills introduced in Parent & Tot, but with activities and challenges appropriate to their age, ability and growing independence.
Activities may be set up as stations, allowing each child to explore a piece of equipment independently or with their parent, or in a follow-the-leader format, where children move through activities by following their coach or the child in front of them.
7. Do you offer “free play” style classes in the gym?
No. We don’t offer free-play style classes, as safety is a high priority in our gym. All gymnastics equipment requires some level of instruction, guidance or safety information before use.
Our classes still provide opportunities for children to explore, make choices and move at their own level, but this is done within a structured environment where coaches can ensure equipment is being used safely.
8. Do you offer classes for children who have unique communication styles or sensory, developmental or motor needs?
Yes. Children who need extra support and/or a flexible environment to participate in gymnastics successfully can be referred to class options tailored for them.
These classes may be a good fit for children who have found that our regularly advertised gymnastics classes, or other organized sports, don’t currently meet their needs.
Referrals are through SSCS Physiotherapists or Occupational Therapists, or through the Active Start Coordinator at Whistler Gymnastics.
Please email activestart@whistlergymnastics.com to enquire.
9. Who should I contact if I have feedback or an issue with an Active Start class?
If you have feedback, a concern or an issue relating to an Active Start class, please reach out to Clare O’Dea, our Active Start Coordinator, at activestart@whistlergymnastics.com.
You can also contact Steve, our Director, at director@whistlergymnastics.com.