WHAT TO WEAR?​
Leotards are best for girls.  Tights or non-baggy shorts may also be worn.  For boys, t-shirts and athletic shorts are recommended.  Stay away from clothing that is too baggy, has zippers, snaps, buckles and/or strings.  Bare feet are best to avoid slipping on the floor or equipment in the gym. Jewelry should not be worn. Eyeglasses should be secured to prevent slipping. Tie long hair back at the nape of the neck or on each side.  No large barrettes or bobbles on TOP of the head (uncomfortable for front rolls.) Longer hair should be tied up and secured away from your eyes.  Fingernails and toenails should be trimmed. 
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NO COMPARISON.​
Try not to compare your child to other children in the class!  All kids learn in different ways and work in different levels in the same class.  Our instructors are trained to teach varying skill levels - even in the same class.  Remember that some students have had previous instruction and will be comfortable with the facility and the way our classes run.  You may be surprised at what your child learns from watching other students in class.

GOT ENERGY?​
Children should have a healthy snack after school or before gym. Fruits and vegetables, whole breads or cheese provide needed energy for this action-packed class. Sugar-based foods are not suitable as they provide a short burst of energy that leaves you feeling drained soon after.

HOW TO WATCH?​
This is a non-parent-assisted class.  You are, of course, welcome and encouraged to watch quietly from the sidelines.  No cell phones calls during class but feel free to take pictures or videos.   Please send us a copy!  Siblings and other children are not permitted to use the playground at Plymouth.
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TALK WITH YOUR CHILD ABOUT GYMSTARS - - REMIND THEM TO LISTEN!​
A key aspect of good communication is listening to your instructor or coach. Athletes should understand, follow instructions, and ask questions if unsure about something. Clear communication is particularly important when being spotted. We always teach the names of the skills your child is learning, along with ideas about fitness and good health.  Help us to reinforce these concepts by asking your child what he or she has learned and to demonstrate the moves with you on a rug or mat.  Remember to listen:  Sometimes the class can be noisy as children are taking turns and working independently, a reminder from you to keep listening to the teacher is appreciated!

 

PREPARE TO PARTICIPATE

This includes arriving before the scheduled start time, waiting in the designated area, being prepared physically, mentally and emotionally, warming up properly, and reporting to the coach or instructor anything that may interfere with your performance such as illness, fatigue or emotional unease.

SIGN UP FOR CONTINUOUS SESSIONS…​
Gymnastics is an artistic endeavor - - there are always more skills to develop!   Most of these require “lead-up” exercises to gain the strength needed for mastery.  When you sign up for consecutive sessions, your child will enjoy the confidence from skills already achieved, while working on the next progression of a particular movement.

TALK WITH YOUR GYMSTARS INSTRUCTOR.​
Always feel free to ask your child's instructor any questions you may have about progress!  If you are not comfortable speaking to them, you may contact Miss Aimee at the contact below.  

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SUPERVISION​

Gymnasts should never engage in gymnastics activities without supervision.

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MASTER BASIC SKILLS
Athletes should know how to perform basic skills prior to learning more advanced skills. Additionally, gymnasts should follow proper progressions in learning new and more difficult skills.

 

KNOW THE SKILL

Athletes should thoroughly understand all skills attempted. Skills can be studied by learning parts of the skill and performing drills that lead up to the skill, viewing a video of the skill, watching other athletes perform the skill, or by other methods. Athletes should ask their coach or instructor for help if they don’t understand the skill.

 

COMMIT TO THE SKILL
Always follow through and perform the entire skill. If a skill is stopped in the middle, regardless of the reason, the risk of injury increases to both the athlete and the spotter.  Always avoid landing on the head, neck or with straight legs.

 

KNOW LIMITATIONS
Personal limitations may involve skill, experience, illness, injury and other factors.  Athletes should not pursue skills or activities that exceed their current abilities and should communicate these to instructors or Aimee

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