Academy of Fine Arts

It is an Olympic Year! And alot of parents will be approached by their children to take gymnastic or tumbling classes after watching the graceful and strong movements of well trained athletes. When parents start looking for a gymnastic or tumbling program for their child, most will ask around the neighborhood or at their child's school as to where other children are taking classes. The majority of parents have never grown up  or worked in the field and therefore have no idea where to begin or what questions to ask. They know that they want kind, passionate and skilled instructors and a clean, friendly facility. Beyond that? They are not sure. In selecting instruction for your child, here are some questions that you might want to consider in your search.

1. What type of program is offered?

The type of program may vary from facility to facility and it is wise to ask so that you will have a better understanding of what your child will be learning.Some gyms offer programs in the area of Artistic Gymnastics only. Others offer tumbling, cheerleading, preschool programs, tot programs, general gymnastics, recreational gymnastics, martial arts and more. Each program has different issues to be addressed. Some programs push towards a competitive style and are high pressure. Other programs may push towards a particular sport such as cheerleading and then there are others that promote a recreational/educational programs and focus on the student's self improvement, learning styles and fun.

2. What about their staff and teachers?

Be sure to ask about their staff and teachers. Are they trained? Or did they just grow up doing it as a child. Trained coaches, teachers and staff are a must for the safety and well being of your child. Staff members need to be trained in safety issues, learning styles, kinetics, body mechanics, child developement, first aide and cpr. One training does not make a coach or teacher. Constant training, updating and renewal are a must for a safe program. Also ask if  they perform background checks and drug testing on staff members as well.

3.Do they follow a proven syllabus or coaching method that can be tracked and documented?

Facilities with a proven method of instruction not only have a good success rate, they also have a lower injury rate as well. Ask for documentation of skills to be taught or introduced. Ask how you as the parents will know if they are following the method or not and how they intend to track your childs skills as evidence of the method being in place.

4.  Is the gym a member of any associations that follow the trends of gymnastic type movements and long term safety isues?

There are a few gymnastic associations that charge dues for membership and offer extra training and certification events for those teaching and coaching in the gymnastic field. These associations generally work hand in hand with other organizations such as Junior Olympics and US Olympics in following the safety and coaching trends in the United States. Many offer extra safety training courses as well as regional and national congress events.

So when shopping around for a program for your child, ask questions and get the answers you want. If they cannot answer your questions, you might want to look elsewhere.


TUMBLE DANCE & CHEER PRODUCTIONS offers facility tours on Fridays. We invite you to take a look at our facility and visit with our staff in person. To make arrangements for a tour, please call our office at 580-256-3262. We offer a staff that trains on a regular basis and holds certifications in their specialty areas, a clean and well maintained facility and a passion for teaching movements in the correct kinetic order. TDC Productions is a member of USA Independant Gym Clubs, ODMA, PASS Ambassadors, Gym Certified and are AACCA Safety Trained.