Levittown-area children now have a place where they can bounce, tumble, skip and jump, all while developing motor skills. The Little Gym (TLG), a motor skill development facility, offers a curriculum-based core program of gymnastics to promote coordination, balance, rhythm and flexibility.
Gym participants can sign up for guided classes with certified instructors, sign up for school break camps, have their own birthday party at the facility, or take part in the ‘Parent Survival Night’ offering parents a couple of hours drop-off service in a safe, fun setting. Classes are specially tailored for ages ranging from 10 months to 12 years old.
“All children, at any age and ability level, can benefit from the self-confidence that comes from experiencing achievement and success,” said Tina Lopano, owner of The Little Gym of Levittown.
The Little Gym programs introduce children to new skills and then help them master those skills through individualized instruction, group activities, directive music and cooperative games.
“We are a non-competitive, curriculum-based program,” said Lopano. “One of the goals that we have is to build a child’s confidence; we use gymnastics as the tool to do that.”
TLG is based on a philosophy of allowing kids to experience success in a fun and caring way. Lopano told the Tribune that it is important for parents to know that TLG does not cater to free-play, that the time spent at the facility is structured and guided. The classroom and gym areas are thoroughly cleaned and sanitized after each class to ensure a healthy, safe environment for its guests.
“Levittown is a working community, but a great family community,” said Lopano. “We are confident that our programs and services will be a great fit for the youth of the community, and we are eager to introduce our unique approach to skill growth and development and learning to the area.”
Lopano told the Tribune that she retired from the banking industry to purposely pursue a family-friendly career. Making the transition has changed her family’s quality of life, with two small kids of her own.
TLG’s model has ranked it among the best in the industry. The company was named the first as the “Birthday Party destination” by Parents magazine in 2010 and ranked first in the “Children’s Fitness” category in Entrepreneur Magazine’s Franchise 500 from 2007-2010. Started in 1976, and later established as a franchise in 1992, TLG has more than 300 locations in 22 countries.
Staff instructors are trained to implement the program material, as well as have a natural ability to communicate with children. Each instructor has been thoroughly background checked to ensure safety.
The Little Gym of Levittown is located at 2890 Hempstead Turnpike. It has been open for about three weeks and has already hosted over a dozen birthday parties and more than 30 curriculum based classes.
TLG offers a free introductory class, available for sign-up on its website. Sibling and multi-class discounts are offered, as well as membership savings incentives. For more information about The Little Gym of Levittown, visit www.TLG LevittownNY.com or call 516-520-4455.
