How to Choose the Right Gymnastics Class for Your Child’s Age & Skill Level

Choosing a gymnastics class shouldn’t feel like a guessing game.

With so many options—tumbling, recreational gymnastics, competitive teams, ninja programs, and cheer and tumble squads—many parents ask us the same question: “How do I know which gymnastics class is right for my child?”

At Kokomo Flipsters, we’ve helped thousands of families since 1985 find the best path for their child’s age, interest, and ability level. Whether you're looking for a fun way to stay active or hope to build skills for the long term, this guide will walk you through the process step by step.

Know What You Want Your Child to Gain

Before signing up, it’s helpful to define your goals.

Ask yourself:

• Does my child need a physical activity to burn off energy after school?

• Are they showing interest in gymnastics, flips, tumbling, or cheer?

• Do we want something casual and fun, or are we exploring a long-term sport?

• Would they thrive in a social group setting, a structured class, or a performance-based team?

Your answers will help narrow down the best program for your child’s stage of development.

Ages 18 Months – 3 Years: Tumble Bears / Mommy & Me

For toddlers, our Tumble Bears and Mommy & Me programs are the perfect introduction to movement.

Program Focus:

• Early motor skills: crawling, rolling, jumping, balancing

• Social interaction and parent-child bonding

• Coordination, listening, and basic direction-following

Class Structure:

• Parent-participation required

• Soft mats, tunnels, balance beams, parachute play, and music

• Coaches lead fun, age-appropriate activities that promote confidence

Learn more or register for Tumble Bears here: https://www.kokomoflipsters.com/gymnastics

These classes are a wonderful way to introduce your child to the world of gymnastics in a stress-free, supportive environment.

Ages 4 – 6: Intro to Gymnastics Class / Kinder Gym

Preschool and kindergarten-age kids are ready to join class without a parent and start building foundational gymnastics skills.

Program Focus:

• Basic tumbling: rolls, donkey kicks, cartwheels

• Beam balancing, bar hangs, vault jumps

• Coordination and spatial awareness

• Classroom etiquette: taking turns, listening, teamwork

  
  

Class Details:

• 45–60 minute classes

• Fun rotations on each event (vault, bars, beam, floor)

• Coaches encourage self-confidence while teaching proper form

  
  

These early years are critical for building the mind-body connection that makes gymnastics easier and more enjoyable in later levels.

Ages 6 – 10: Recreational Gymnastics or Ninja Zone

This is a key age group where kids develop strength, body control, and personal interests. At Kokomo Flipsters, we offer two exciting paths:

Recreational Gymnastics:

• Learn progressions like handstands, cartwheels, round-offs, and bridges

• Start working on small routines and form corrections

• Ideal for kids who love to challenge themselves but prefer a non-competitive setting

  
  

Ninja Zone:

• A dynamic mix of gymnastics, obstacle training, parkour, and martial arts

• Great for boys and girls who prefer high-energy, fast-paced movement

• Teaches discipline, respect, strength, and agility in a creative format

  
  

Not sure which is best? Try both! Some kids take Ninja Zone and Gymnastics together.

Ages 10+: Skill Building or Sport Specialization

By this stage, many students either continue recreationally or begin exploring advanced skill-building or competitive pathways.

Advanced Gymnastics:

• Refines skills like back handsprings, aerials, and vaults

• Focuses on flexibility, strength, and technical form

• For students who have mastered beginner and intermediate skills

  
  

Cheer & Tumbling Squads:

• Ideal for kids interested in competitive cheer, sideline cheer, or school tryouts

• Emphasizes tumbling passes, jumps, motions, and stunts

• Great for kids who love performance, teamwork, and high-energy training

  
  

Cheer is open to all genders and can be a powerful way to build confidence and stage presence.

Competitive Team & Pre-Team Training

For athletes ready for a long-term commitment, our Competitive Team programs are available by evaluation only.

These programs are:

• Structured for skill progression and advancement

• Focused on performance goals, discipline, and competition etiquette

• Coached by experienced professionals in a supportive team setting

Many students who begin with our rec or Ninja programs eventually move into pre-team or competitive tracks.

Want to explore this path? Ask us about an evaluation session or observation class.

Still Not Sure? Try a Free Class

The best way to see what’s right for your child is to come try a class—no pressure, no guesswork. After your child participates, we’ll help recommend the best placement based on their interest and ability.

How Our Coaches Guide Your Child’s Growth

At Flipsters, we believe in coaching the whole child, not just the skill.

Our instructors are trained to:

• Evaluate skill level at any age

• Recommend the appropriate next class or challenge

• Celebrate progress and personal wins

• Provide consistent, caring feedback to students and families

  
  

We’re more than a gym, we’re a community where kids grow stronger physically and mentally.

Frequently Asked Questions

My child is new; can they still join?

My child is new—can they still join?

What if my child has done gymnastics before?

Most classes are 45–60 minutes. Competitive and advanced students may train multiple times per week.

How long is each class?

Leotards or athletic clothing (no jeans or skirts). No shoes or socks required, just bare feet!

Can siblings take classes at the same time?

Yes! We offer multi-age class times and sibling-friendly scheduling.

Take the First Step — Book a Free Trial Class Today

Your child’s gymnastics journey starts with one small step into the gym.

Whether you’re building confidence, coordination, or chasing competition dreams, we’re here to help you find the perfect fit.

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