Bonita YMCA offering parent-toddler class

The Bonita Springs YMCA is offering a new program for parents who want to be more active with their toddlers.

“We have a lot of parents who like to come to the gym and workout but wanted a little something extra to do with their kids,” said Robin Siewers, the YMCA spokesperson.

The “Toddler Tumbling” program became the answer to member requests for classes they could attend with their toddlers, ages 3 to 5.

The Y will offer youth movements where kids will learn to stretch, jump, basic floor gymnastics and get an introduction to tumbling.

“Parents want to have a class that they can share with their children before or after they work out in the morning, luckily we were able to start this,” said Siewers, who added that only one session is offered at this time but more may be offered because of a high demand from members.

The class will be taught by gymnastics teacher Camille Arciere who is also a member of the YMCA and has two young children of her own.

“She showed interest in starting the program because she has eight years of experience in teaching gymnastics,” said Siewers, who said classes may be capped at 15 children and their parents.

“It's a great introduction for kids into some type of physical activity and that fits with what we are trying to promote in keeping a healthy lifestyle for kids,” she said.

The program is filling up fast and parents are asked to speak to the YMCA soon to guarantee their child a spot.

“This gives parents that special time to interact with their kids and from a social perspective it's good too,” Siewers said. “This is just something new to get the kids involved.”