The Little Gym - Austin South, Austin

In 1976, educator, musician, and kinesiologist Robin Wes longed for a children's gym that prioritized personal growth over competition. Unveiled at a time when physical-education classes pushed students to focus almost exclusively on winning, Robin's program was swiftly adopted and is now used in more than 300 Little Gyms worldwide. Robin still pens original music to accompany lessons, which engage whippersnappers 4 months old–12 years old with gymnastics, dance, and parent and child activities.

Each of The Little Gym's classes embrace the Three-Dimensional Learning philosophy, in which physical activity acts as a conduit for nurturing growth in three holistic dimensions—Brain Boost!, Get Moving! and Citizen Kid!. Staff members strive to build a base for lifelong social skills and self-assurance with each gymnastic class including activities rooted purely in fun, as well as skill growth. Other great offerings include summer and winter camps, parent survival night, or award winning birthday parties, which helped The Little Gym to earn title of #1 Birthday Chain in Parents magazine.