The Little Gym: The Best First Step for Active, Confident Kids

The Little Gym: The Best First Step for Active, Confident Kids

Fall is the perfect time to start something new. If you are looking for a place in Des Moines where your little one can move, play, and learn in a safe, nurturing environment, The Little Gym of Johnston might just be your family’s new happy place.

Movement That Builds More Than Muscles

Classes are thoughtfully aligned with developmental milestones outlined by the American Academy of Pediatrics. That means every balance beam walk, obstacle course, or climbing activity is more than just play,  it’s intentionally chosen to help kids master age-appropriate skills at just the right time.

The gym setup changes every week to keep kids engaged, introduce new challenges, and help them build on what they learned the week before. At The Little Gym, kids learn:

• Balance — Walking across a beam or hopping between mats builds stability and confidence.
  
• Coordination — Throwing, catching, and navigating obstacle courses sharpen hand-eye and foot-eye coordination.
  
• Strength — Climbing, swinging, and tumbling build muscles big and small.
  
• Spatial Awareness — Learning how to move in relation to others is a key part of both physical play and life skills.
  

These foundational abilities are not just for sports. They are building blocks for everyday life.

The Secret to School Readiness? Play!

What surprises many parents is how much The Little Gym’s programs also prepare kids for preschool and elementary school. While children are having fun, they are:

• Practicing listening skills by following multi-step instructions.
  
• Building focus and self-control through structured activities.
  
• Learning teamwork and how to take turns, both essential for the classroom.
  
• Gaining confidence by trying new skills in a supportive environment.
  

Compared to waiting until school starts, dropping them off, and crossing your fingers, The Little Gym gives you a chance to build up your child’s confidence while you are right there to watch and support them.

Parents Are Part of the Fun

For our youngest members (ages 4 months to 3 years), classes are a shared experience. Parents join their children in the gym, modeling movement, encouraging new skills, and sharing in the joy of small victories. It is a special bonding time that is just as rewarding for grown-ups as it is for kids.

A Warm, Welcoming Community

The Little Gym is not just a place to take classes. It is a community of families who value active play, positivity, and connection. Many parents find it is a great way to meet other families in the area, and kids love seeing familiar faces week after week.

Ready to Give It a Try?

Whether your child is toddling for the first time or ready to flip into more advanced skills, The Little Gym of Johnston offers a program that grows with them. Classes run year-round, and there are options for every age and stage.

📅 Special Offer: Register by September 7 to receive a waived $35 registration fee, $10 off your first month, and be entered to win one of three gift cards worth up to $100. Check out their schedule here to book a free trial class using code VIPTLG. New classes, including Sundays, have just been added!