Mums & Their Little Ones Just Adore PlayGym at Macquarie University

By: Vanessa Mah Chut, ellaslist explorer

The parking was easy, the cafe was in sight, and so I already had a good feeling about attending PlayGym at Macquarie University with my 2 yr old son.

Little Ones Will Learn With A Laugh

The PlayGym class is part of the Gymnastics program offered at Macquarie University Sport and Aquatic Centre. PlayGym is for children aged between 18 months and 3 years, and a parent needs to accompany each child. The PlayGym program helps children develop their gross and fine motor skills, balance, strength, coordination and flexibility.

Sparkling Staff

Before our class even started I could see that our gymnastics coach Holly was popular. The other children who had been coming all term LOVED Holly. The children all called hello to her as they arrived and some even brought drawings for her. It was a welcoming environment for my son who was feeling shy about the new class.

Time To Get Movin'

The class started with some warm up yoga poses. This was a challenge for some of the young ones who were just keen to get moving, so luckily for them it wasn't long before we started the first of three circuits. For each circuit, all of the activities were explained and the children could choose where they wanted to start and what they wanted to do. The kids never had a chance to get bored in the 45-minute class.

Plenty To Keep Them Busy

They were encouraged to have a go at everything but each child definitely had their favourites. My son particularly enjoyed crawling through the tunnel, jumping on big and small trampolines, climbing wall ladders, swinging from and climbing along beams, and jumping in the foam pit. These were just a few of the tens of activities that were on offer, all in a clean and modern facility.

Macquarie Uni Has It All For Families

The facility also has a swim school and the staff will try and facilitate gymnastics and swimming lessons at suitable times if you are interested in participating in both activities. There are also adult fitness programs for members so it wouldn't be hard to spend a whole morning here. There is free parking for 2hrs in the N3 carpark for those using the Sport and Aquatic Centre. Just remember to collect a ticket for your dash.

Stuff You Should Know

The gymnastics terms run for 12 weeks and so shouldn't be confused with the school terms. These programs do not stop for most of the school holidays. Once you sign up, you are committed to attend and payments are made fortnightly ($38 per fortnight, 20% discount if you attend more than one program).

The ellaslist Verdict

My son and I had a great session together, enjoying gymnastics in a fantastic facility with friendly and welcoming staff. Now for a coffee at the cafe I spotted earlier...

For more information on PlayGym and Macquarie University Gymnastics Programs, click here, or call them on (02) 9850 7636.