Kids in Motion
Kids In Motion is a sensory/motor/gymnastics program for children of all ages who have physical, mental, emotional, social, language, and/or sensory challenges. Those include but are not limited to:
Developmental Delay
Attention Deficit
Autism
Cerebral Palsy
Down’s Syndrome
Visual Auditory/Speech Deficits
Sensory Integration
Emotional/Behavioral/Social
Hypo/Hyperactivity
Coordination
Fear of Movement
With guidance from professionals at Easter Seals, this program was developed to provide children with special needs the opportunity to participate in an affordable motor program in addition to therapies, and/or as a recreational activity. It combines sensory stimulation, motor activities and gymnastics to facilitate learning and growth in all aspects of human function.
Our Approach
We engage students in tactile, vestibular and proprioceptive play using movement/gymnastics activities and equipment as the tools. The goals of the program are to address the physical, social, cognitive and emotional needs of each student in a safe and fun learning environment through guided play and instruction.
Physical Goals: Increase gross motor skills, postural control, balance, coordination, strength, flexibility, stamina and general physical health.
Social Goals: Increase compliance with group activities, appropriate social interaction, comfort level in groups, integration into group settings as appropriate, and general communication skills.
Cognitive Goals: Increase attention span, ability to focus, ability to follow directions, motor-planning skills and problem solving.
Emotional Goals: Increase self-confidence, ability to self-regulate, tolerance of surroundings and situations, and enjoyment of movement.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Kids in Motion?
Kids in Motion are recreational gymnastics and movement classes for children with special physical and cognitive learning needs. The goal is to give each child what all children are entitled to: the opportunity to experience an active life that is filled with excitement, self-confidence, discovery and most importantly, FUN!
What are the ages?
We take anyone as young as 2 years old up to High School.
What about the evaluation?
Every child is scheduled for a free evaluation at Jump Start that lasts approximately 20 to 30 minutes. This allows the Kids in Motion Director to meet your child so she can properly place them in an appropriate class.
For more information, contact our Kids in Motion Director, Justin Hand, at [email protected] or (309) 692-5867.
Kids in Motion Class Options
Individual Classes
Teacher works one-on-one with the child individually. This class is scheduled on an individual basis and class length depends on ability of the child.
Small Group Classes
Child is placed in a small group of 2 to 6 children with similar needs and abilities. Length of class time depends upon age and level of children in the group.
Integrated Classes
Children participate in a regular age or skill appropriate class at Jump Start Gymnastics, independently or with an aid.
Field Trips
Organizations that offer programs for special needs children can schedule a one-hour field trip to our facility. Our staff will work with coordinators to plan activities based on the general needs of the group. Please call (309) 692-5867 for more information and available days and times.