GymbaROO isn’t just for parents and their children. GymbaROO has become a great activity for grandparents to spend some quality time with their grandchildren. From our Baby ROO program through to school readiness classes, grandparents can enjoy playing a part in their grandchildren’s development.
Sydney Grandmother Yvonne attended classes with all six of her grandchildren across 12 years. She turned GymbaROO into a weekly ritual that became much more than just an activity.
“When my first grandchild was six months old, my daughter asked if I’d like to take him to a program called GymbaROO,” Yvonne recalls. “I had no idea what to expect, but I thought – why not?”
She arrived for her first Baby ROO session not quite sure what she was walking into. “I remember thinking the setup looked far too advanced for a baby – it all seemed so complex. But once we got started, I was amazed at how the equipment could be used in simple, clever ways to support his movement and development. He loved it and I did too!”
From that first Baby ROO class, Yvonne was hooked. “Every week brought something new – beanbags, balloons, maracas, tambourines. There was always a new sound, a new word, a new movement to explore. As he grew, the challenges grew too, and I loved watching him become more independent in the sessions.”
Over time, five more grandchildren came along and Yvonne didn’t hesitate. “As each one turned three months old, I signed them up and rearranged my schedule to make sure they could have the GymbaROO experience too.”
Even when her first grandchild eventually moved onto school learning, he still wanted to come along. “He would beg to help hand out and collect the baby equipment. He was excited to start kindergarten, and genuinely upset that his time at GymbaROO was over.”
When it comes to the value of GymbaROO for preparing children for higher school learning, Yvonne believes the program helps immensely.
“All six of them got so much out of GymbaROO – learning to move, solve problems, sing, recognise objects, share, socialise. The transition to kindy was smooth for everyone of them. They were ready.”
For Yvonne, it wasn’t just about supporting her grandchildren’s development – it was about building lasting bonds and sharing something meaningful with each of them, from their first Baby ROO class to their final school readiness session and beyond.
Join GymbaROO with your Grandchildren
For grandparents looking to build connections with their grandchildren while also helping them develop and grow, find your local GymbaROO centre and find out more.