by April Sawyer

More than 20 years ago I led a mom’s group with children ages 1 to 3 years old. As we crawled along with the children, I mentioned its importance and how crawling is connected to children’s reading abilities.

Many of the parents were shocked to learn this! From that day forward, I made it my mission, through the sport of gymnastics, to inform and help parents understand the importance of motor skills, coordination, and balance.

Why is this important?

In today’s world, children are not getting the necessary daily physical activity. Therefore, we see more cognitive delays, sensory issues, behavioral problems, delayed speech, and the list goes on.

One thing that contributes greatly to decreased activity is the baby carrier. Some babies spend way too much time in them.

Unfortunately, these issues are not noticed until children are older. Getting children moving earlier is better! ‘Tummy time’ and other out-and-about activities help strengthen your baby’s neck, back, arms and core muscles.

How Viking is helping change this

At Viking, we see a huge need to start children in activities that connect neurons, strengthen muscles, and help in advancing development inside and out in numerous other areas. We pride ourselves on our research and efforts that help each child get off to a great start in life. Our Baby Vikes classes begin at 6 months old. Yes, 6 months!

During a Baby Vikes class we work on all the muscles necessary for a great beginning:  coordination, balance, activities to help with eyesight, spatial awareness, fine and gross motor skills, tracking, landing feet first to prevent falls off the bed, couch, or stairs, and many other important skills in a fun and bright environment.

How to get started

If you or someone you know has a child 6 months or older who is learning to crawl or walk, they would benefit from our Baby Vikes class! This class provides a head start and the results are for life.

Call or stop by today if you have questions or want to see our facility, and sign up!