Last Thursday my kids and I popped into Gymboree Play & Music for the first time.  Our experience just goes to show that you don't really know about a place until you try it for yourself.

I'm not quite sure exactly what I expected, probably something along the lines of Kindermusik, since we've been involved with that in the past.  What we found was a little like Kindermusik because they were playing fun music, but also very different.  What was different was the physical  atmosphere with the Play Gym.

We participated in Family Gym, which is the only class where multiple ages are allowed, and the only class where a parent can go in with more than one child.  Between climbing on the toys and participating in ever-changing group activities, the children were lead through many activities for 45 minutes (although it felt like 15!)  My son (almost 5) had fun climbing and playing, but I could tell that this might get old for him if we came again.  For that reason, they offer an Art class at the same time for the older kids...no parents needed.  This art class is fabulous.  When Ethan was there, he reported playing "hide and seeK" with foam letters, reading Chick-a-Boom, and came home with a beautiful art project relating to the story that he made during the 55 min class.

Patting out rhythms on the air log, doing rhymes while rolling, lots of bubbles, parachute time, climbing, dancing, playing, and making new friends...this was all part of our Gymboree experience.  We definitely recommend it.  I think Gymboree would be best for a family that could commit to going once a week, although they do offer Open Play Gyms for non-members.

Gymboree has a lot going on.  They structure their classes by level, which correspond to ages.  The levels are very age specific, so they will target your child's developmental level quite well.  There are so many options that I would encourage you to study their schedule and call to get more information.  You can also get a free class to just go and try it out.

When you call, be sure to mention that you heard about them on Grand Rapids Kids!

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