momentum-athletic-center

Celebrating Extraordinary Athletes During Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month

Tue, 17 Mar 2026 18:53:18 GMT

Every March, communities across the country recognize Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month, a time to celebrate inclusion, build understanding, and highlight the incredible contributions of individuals with developmental disabilities and the families who support them.

At Momentum Athletic Center, this month holds a special place in our hearts.

Not only do we have the privilege of working with some of the most determined, joyful, and inspiring young athletes in Parker, Colorado, but we are also honored to partner with Developmental Pathways (DP)—an organization that has helped thousands of families access resources, services, and support throughout our region.

This year, we’re especially excited to host FestAbilities, Developmental Pathways’ annual community celebration, at our Cheer & Ninja Gym later this month. It’s an event dedicated to connection, inclusion, and raising awareness—and it perfectly reflects the spirit of what we try to build every day inside our gym.

Because at Momentum, inclusion isn’t a program we run once a year. It’s something we live every single day.

The Extraordinary Athletes Program: A Year of Growth

Over the past year, more than 100 children have participated in our Extraordinary Athletes program, a gymnastics-based movement program designed for young athletes with developmental delays, autism, medical complexities, and other unique support needs.

Watching these athletes grow has been nothing short of inspiring.

Some children arrive hesitant to step onto the floor.

Others come in with endless energy and curiosity.

But week by week, something remarkable happens.

Confidence grows.

Friendships form.

Milestones—big and small—are celebrated.

For many families, Extraordinary Athletes becomes more than a class. It becomes a community.

And perhaps one of the greatest indicators of how meaningful this program has become is something we hear from our own team again and again: Our Extraordinary Athletes classes are our coaches’ favorite classes to teach. In an industry where turnover can be common, we are incredibly proud to say that we have had zero coach turnover within the program. Our coaches return week after week because they believe deeply in the athletes they work with and the progress they see unfolding in front of them.

The joy these athletes bring into the gym is contagious.

The Power of Patience and Encouragement

Every athlete’s journey looks a little different. For some children, the first class might involve sitting quietly on the side while they take in the environment. For others, it might mean exploring every corner of the gym with curiosity and excitement. Our coaches are trained to meet every child exactly where they are—providing structure, encouragement, and support while allowing each athlete to progress at their own pace. Over time, those small steps turn into meaningful change. Parents often tell us they begin to see growth not only in the gym, but at home and in school as well—improved confidence, stronger coordination, and increased comfort interacting with others.

And for many families, simply having a place where their child can participate, move freely, and feel welcomed makes all the difference.

What Families Are Saying

Nothing speaks more powerfully about this program than the families who experience it every week.

Molly Glasser shared this about her daughter’s experience:

"My daughter attends the Extraordinary Athletes Program and we have had an excellent experience. It took her a little bit to get adjusted, but the coaches were patient and helped her get comfortable participating in a class without a parent next to her. Now she participates in all aspects of the class. I can tell she is getting stronger and learning new skills! We are so glad this program exists!"

Another parent, Jaclyn Noe, shared how meaningful the experience has been for her son:

"My son absolutely loves going to his class. Your staff is incredible and everyone is so nice. My son loves Coach Phillip! We have only been 2 times and each time has been so great for him. It is such a relief and makes me so happy that for at least 50 minutes of his day he can just have fun and be himself, full of energy, without having his mom tell him no or be careful. He is in a safe place."

These stories are the reason we continue to grow and expand this program.

Creating Belonging from the Very Beginning: How Our 4 and under Program Welcomes Every Child and Family

Wed, 14 Jan 2026 16:25:13 GMT

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At Momentum Athletic Center, we believe every child deserves the freedom to move, explore, and connect in a space that celebrates who they are — from their very first steps (or scoots!) to their first friendships.

That’s the heart behind Extraordinary Stay & Play, our newest open gym program for children 4 and under and their caregivers. Designed with inclusivity at the core, Stay & Play welcomes every child — whether they’re neurodiverse, navigating developmental delays, or simply in need of a safe place to burn energy and build confidence.

What Is Extraordinary Stay & Play?

Stay & Play offers a fun, purposeful environment where your little ones can:

Move freely on age-appropriate gymnastics equipment

Engage in sensory play and active exploration

Socialize and learn through play with their peers

Build motor skills, emotional regulation, and confidence

Spend quality time with caregivers — with support, not judgment

Parents, grandparents, and caregivers stay during the session and can use the time to connect with others who understand what it’s like to be in this stage of life — especially for those navigating neurodiversity, developmental delays, or high-energy personalities.

�� When: Monday, Wednesday, Thursday from 12–3 PM

�� Cost: $50/month per child for unlimited visits

�� Who: All children 4 and under and their caregivers — all abilities welcome

This isn’t just indoor play. It’s a chance to get out of the house, release some energy, and enjoy a community that gets it.

Why It Matters

For many families — especially those caring for children with medical complexities or unique support needs — finding safe, supportive, and judgment-free spaces can be hard.

Extraordinary Stay & Play changes that.

We’ve created a warm, welcoming environment where children can move at their own pace, caregivers can breathe, and connection can grow — both on the mats and in the moments between.

It’s not a therapy session or a baby program. It’s real, joyful play that supports healthy development and builds emotional and social confidence in a way that home routines simply can’t.

And sometimes, the most powerful growth is in the little things — like a high-five from a new friend or a smile from a fellow parent who just gets it.

Meet Hunter: From Escape Artist to Preschool-Ready

When Hunter first joined our Extraordinary Athletes program, he had one goal: find the lights and turn them on. Fast.

Known lovingly as our “escape artist,” Hunter had big energy — and a big heart. For his mom, Jacklyn it was the first place he could be completely himself.

“This is the only day I don’t have to tell him ‘no.’ We would come here every day if we could.”

With time, guidance, and lots of movement, Hunter started making friends, sharing equipment, and gaining the confidence to try new things. He’s now in preschool, thriving socially and emotionally — and he happily attends our Extraordinary Athletes class each week.

Hunter is a reminder that with the right environment, every child can thrive.

A Parent’s Perspective: Don’t Miss the Joy

We often see something magical happen in these classes — not just with the kids, but with the parents.

One recent moment says it all: a young athlete who had only been with us a few sessions noticed his parents mid-conversation with other adults and, without hesitation, turned around and headed in for another Extraordinary Athletes session on his own. No prompt. No nudge. Just joy.

That confidence — that feeling of this is my place — is exactly what we hope to build.

Parents often tell us:

✔️ “I didn’t know this kind of place existed.”

✔️ “This is the only place my child is truly free.”

✔️ “Here, I get to connect with other parents who understand.”

In a world where so many families feel isolated or judged, Stay & Play is a space of encouragement and belonging — for the kids, and just as much for the grownups raising them.

Inclusion Means Everyone

Extraordinary Stay & Play isn’t just for one type of child or one kind of family. It’s for:

The child who needs to move

The parent craving community

The toddler working through motor or social development

The caregiver who just wants a place to be with no pressure

The kid who’s high-energy, quiet, cautious, curious, or everything all at once

This program is here to support the whole family, in whatever stage you’re in — with no labels, no expectations, and all the joy.

Come Move With Us

Looking for a place where your child can explore safely, socialize freely, and feel like they belong?

Extraordinary Stay & Play might be just what you’ve been searching for.

Come visit. Bring your little one. Chat with another parent. Stay and play — as often as you like.

✨ Because early childhood should be full of movement, connection, and joy — for every child, and every caregiver.

And we’d love to welcome you to our community

Movement That Matters

Wed, 10 Dec 2025 16:36:53 GMT

At Momentum Athletic Center, we’ve seen it firsthand movement is more than just physical. For children with autism and other developmental needs, physical activity is a powerful tool that supports emotional regulation, builds social confidence, and sparks genuine joy. That’s exactly why our Extraordinary Athletes program exists.

A recent article from T he TreeTop ABA Center highlights what so many families already know to be true: sports and movement-based activities can have a transformational effect on children with autism. Whether it’s improving coordination, learning to work through sensory challenges, or simply building confidence in a safe and supportive setting, these programs offer so much more than exercise.

Why Sports and Movement Help

Children on the autism spectrum often face unique challenges related to motor skills, communication, and social interaction. But when movement becomes part of their weekly rhythm, those challenges are met with new tools for growth.

According to experts, sports-based activities can help kids with autism:

Improve gross motor skills and body awareness
Support regulation and decrease sensory overload
Practice patience, turn-taking, and teamwork
Boost self-esteem and reduce anxiety
Develop stronger brain-body connections through repetition and play

What’s especially powerful is that physical activity provides these benefits without requiring verbal communication. That makes programs like Extraordinary Athletes a safe and joyful entry point for kids who may not yet be ready for traditional team sports or group classes.

Our Approach: Safe, Supported, and Individualized

At Momentum, Extraordinary Athletes is more than a class — it’s a community. Each session is designed for kids with developmental needs, including autism, who thrive with structure, patience, and encouragement.

We maintain a low athlete-to-coach ratio , allowing each child to move at their own pace, celebrate their unique wins, and feel seen. Our coaches are trained to recognize sensory cues, offer individualized support, and adapt movement activities to fit every child’s strengths.

Here, movement becomes a bridge — a way to connect, build trust, and celebrate the moments that matter most.

Why It Works

When you remove the pressure of “performance” and instead focus on connection and regulation, something beautiful happens. Kids feel safe enough to try, confident enough to fail, and strong enough to succeed.

Whether it's walking across the balance beam for the first time, exploring sensory tiles, or simply sitting in a welcoming space filled with peers who understand them—our athletes are achieving real growth every single week.

No matter your child’s needs or diagnosis, they belong here. Our gym was built for movement—but it’s our community that makes the difference.

Because at Momentum, we believe that every child is extraordinary.

Interested in learning more?

See what makes our Extraordinary Athletes extraordinary and reach out to schedule a tour!

How Movement Supports Emotional Regulation in Children with Developmental Delays and Disabilities

Mon, 17 Nov 2025 22:55:37 GMT

The Impact of Gymnastics at Momentum Athletic Center

At Momentum Athletic Center, we believe that every child deserves a space where they can move, grow, and thrive—just as they are. Our Extraordinary Athletes program was created to provide a welcoming, inclusive environment where children with any kind of delay and or disability can explore movement in ways that help them feel supported, confident, and understood.

What we’ve witnessed in our gym week after week is more than progress in physical skills—it’s progress in communication, connection, and emotional regulation.

Why Movement Matters

For children with delays and disabilities, emotional regulation can be deeply tied to physical movement. Climbing, jumping, swinging, and balancing aren’t just fun activities—they activate the vestibular and proprioceptive systems in the body. These systems are crucial for understanding where the body is in space and how it’s moving, which in turn supports attention, self-soothing, and the ability to respond calmly to new situations.

The structure and routine of a gymnastics class provide predictability and a sense of safety. Each class offers opportunities to try new things at a child’s own pace, paired with patient, trained instructors who know how to adapt the experience to each athlete’s needs.

Emma’s Story

Emma is a young athlete who has been attending our Extraordinary Athletes class for over a year. When she first joined, she was overwhelmed and hesitant to even enter the gym. There were tears, uncertainty, and hesitance to engage with any equipment or coach.

But our team met her exactly where she was.

Over time, we began to understand her preferences. She found comfort in deep pressure on her feet, and we discovered that this helped her feel ready to move. She began doing forward rolls with assistance, exploring the sensory tiles, and walking on the balance beam with growing confidence. Emma’s mom has told us many times that she has never seen Emma engage so happily in anything like she does with her gymnastic class, and she is forever grateful.

Today, Emma arrives early and eager to get started. She verbalizes animatedly, waits (patiently!) for class to begin, and enjoys every minute! She’s made connections with her coaches, and she radiates joy as she moves through the gym. Most telling of all? She doesn’t want to leave when class ends.

Emma brightens our Tuesdays, and her journey is a powerful reminder of the connection between movement and growth.

We are forever grateful for Emma and her family for honoring us by continuing to bring her to Momentum where we all learn and grow together.

Creating a Space Where Every Child Can Shine

Our coaches are trained not only in gymnastics instruction, but also in creating a calm, regulated environment with the support strategies each child may need—from visual cues and sensory breaks to modified equipment and routine-building.

We’ve seen children go from nervous and disengaged to smiling and thriving. We’ve watched nonverbal children find their voices—sometimes through words, sometimes through movement. And we’ve celebrated the tiny moments that lead to big breakthroughs.

Elliott

Tue, 19 Aug 2025 02:54:07 GMT

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This is Elliott. She is the daughter of an EI provider. Elliott was very apprehensive about joining in the class. This was her first experience doing an activity separate from her mom and her grandma who cares for her during the week. Elliott was all tears the first class and mom held her and would put her down all while encouraging her to take part in the class. After all, mom is a Developmental Interventionist and knows the importance of being able to separate from mom and the confidence that builds in a child. The second class I held her the whole time and we walked around the class tearful and talking and intermittently trying the equipment. The third time, she entered with tears which soon dissipated, and she took part in everything! Elliott is a fun, enthusiastic athlete who tries everything and she has a supportive and very happy mom!

Case Studies

Tue, 19 Aug 2025 02:22:35 GMT

Mekayla

This is Mekayla. She entered the program and was disengaged socially. She didn't have body and spatial awareness and had to be monitored very closely. She is now fully engaged with all the equipment and coaches and does not need close supervision at all! She navigates all the stations and equipment with little supervision. She is smiling through the class, and is very brave and does all the equipment and is willing to try new things!

The Benefits of Preschool Gymnastics: Developing Motor Skills, Confidence, and Teamwork in Young Children

Mon, 07 Jul 2025 14:17:46 GMT

Preschool gymnastics is an excellent way to develop motor skills, confidence, and teamwork in young children. Not only does it introduce them to the foundations of gymnastics, but it also promotes healthy physical, cognitive, and social development. In this blog post, we’ll take a closer look at the benefits of preschool gymnastics and why it’s essential for your child’s growth and development.

First and foremost, preschool gymnastics is a fun and social activity that allows children to interact with their peers and learn valuable social skills. By participating in group activities, preschoolers learn how to take turns, follow directions, and work as a team. These skills will serve them well not just in gymnastics, but in all areas of life, as they grow and develop.

Preschool gymnastics also helps develop motor skills, including balance, coordination, and body awareness. These skills are crucial for young children as they learn to control their bodies and navigate their surroundings. By participating in gymnastics, preschoolers learn how to use their bodies in new ways, which helps to improve their overall physical development.

Another significant benefit is that gymnastics promotes confidence and self-esteem. As children learn new skills and overcome challenges, they develop a sense of pride and accomplishment that can help them feel more confident in themselves and their abilities. This newfound confidence can carry over into other areas of their lives, helping them to take on new challenges with a positive attitude.

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Jumping to Success: The Benefits of Learning Jumps on a Springboard in Preschool Gymnastics

Mon, 07 Jul 2025 14:12:43 GMT

Preschool gymnastics is an amazing way for kids to develop their physical abilities and fitness. One of the most exciting parts of preschool gymnastics is the vault “event”, where preschool gymnasts can showcase their strength, coordination, and balance by running, jumping, and landing on a springboard. In preschool, we use a smaller springboard but the concept is the same – train the brain and body and develop confidence and a love for gymnastics that will carry them through the event as they grow.

Here are the benefits of learning jumps on a springboard for preschool gymnastics:

Develops Coordination and Balance Jumping on a springboard requires a lot of coordination and balance. Preschool gymnasts have to learn to control their body movements and line up with the springboard’s trajectory. As they progress, they will get better at timing their jumps, landings, and body position to achieve maximum height and distance.
Increases Strength and Power Jumping on a springboard requires a lot of lower body strength and power. As preschool gymnasts learn to jump higher and further, they will build up strength in their legs and core. This will improve their physical fitness and athleticism overall.
Enhances Confidence and Self-Esteem Learning to jump on a springboard can be a huge confidence boost for preschool gymnasts. As they improve their skills and see their progress, they will feel accomplished and proud of themselves, which will enhance their self-esteem.
Develops Focus and Concentration Jumping on a springboard requires a lot of focus and concentration. Preschool gymnasts have to learn to ignore distractions and concentrate on the task at hand. This ability to concentrate will help them in all areas of their lives, from school to sports to everyday activities.
Fosters a Love for Gymnastics Jumping on a springboard is a fun and exciting activity that can inspire a lifelong love for gymnastics. As preschool gymnasts master their jumps, they will become more enthusiastic and confident about the sport. This can lead to further participation and growth in gymnastics.

Learning jumps on a springboard can help preschool gymnasts develop coordination and balance, increase strength and power, enhance confidence and self-esteem, develop focus and concentration, and foster a love for gymnastics . By incorporating jumps on a springboard into preschool gymnastics training, coaches and parents can help their young athletes develop the skills they need to excel in gymnastics and in life.

Upside Down, Backwards, and Having a Blast: Discover Lil’ Movers at Momentum Athletic Center

Mon, 07 Jul 2025 14:09:07 GMT

Do you remember the thrill of standing on your head as a child, seeing the world from a completely new perspective? Do you recall the thrill of running full tilt, turning cartwheels across the grass, or the pride that swelled in your chest when you finally mastered that backflip on the trampoline? At Momentum Athletic Center, we have a program that invites your children to experience these delights and so much more.

Hello, parents, guardians, and little athletes!

Welcome to the vibrant world of Lil’ Movers, where we’re turning childhood playtime upside down, quite literally!

Lil’ Movers is our dynamic gymnastics program specifically designed for kids aged 3-6. Inspired by child development principles, this program uses the excitement of gymnastics to teach more than just physical skills. Here, your child will learn to be bold, take healthy risks, and develop the courage to step outside their comfort zone.

The agility required in gymnastics encourages cognitive development in a fun and exciting way. Twisting, turning, and tumbling in all sorts of directions, our young gymnasts learn about spatial awareness, coordination, and balance. These skills not only help in the gymnasium but are fundamental to overall child development, including academic learning.

Do you ever wonder how a gymnast flips backward and lands perfectly? It’s not just about physical strength but also involves a tremendous amount of visual and spatial processing. When your child is upside down or moving backward, they’re not just playing but training their brain to see and understand the world differently. It’s all about challenging their norms and pushing their limits, encouraging them to think outside the box.

At Momentum Athletic Center, our goal isn’t just to teach kids how to do a perfect cartwheel or master a balance beam, but to encourage them to learn, grow, and tackle life with enthusiasm and resilience. Through our Lil’ Movers program, we cultivate an environment where kids feel safe to try, fail, and try again. In this nurturing atmosphere, your child learns about patience, dedication, and the joy of small victories that lead to significant achievements.

Our dedicated coaches work closely with each child, paying attention to their individual strengths and areas for improvement. We believe in the power of personal encouragement and feedback, guiding your little ones to be confident in their abilities and to celebrate their unique gifts.

So, let’s get your kids upside down, spinning, and springing! Let’s get them exploring their capabilities and pushing boundaries. Let’s get them having fun and learning with Lil’ Movers at Momentum Athletic Center. A world of exciting flips, spins, and somersaults awaits your child. Join us today and see how we’re reinventing the way your children play, learn, and grow.

Get in touch with us to learn more about the program or to schedule a visit. Let’s get your kids moving in the right direction – even if that direction is upside down!

About Momentum Athletic Center

Momentum Athletic Center is passionate about helping children explore their potential through gymnastics. Our team of skilled coaches is committed to providing an inclusive, exciting, and nurturing environment for kids of all ages and abilities. We believe that with the right support and opportunities, every child can thrive, and we’re excited to be part of that journey. Let’s turn your child’s world upside down, in the best way possible!

Why the Pencil Body Shape is Crucial for Your Preschooler’s Gymnastics Journey

Mon, 07 Jul 2025 14:06:01 GMT

In the world of early childhood development, every movement, gesture, and activity plays a pivotal role in shaping a child’s future. At Momentum Athletic Center, we’ve always believed in harnessing the power of movement to foster growth, both mentally and physically. Our Little Movers Preschool Gymnastics program is a testament to this belief. One of the foundational movements we emphasize is the “pencil” body shape. But why is this seemingly simple posture so crucial for preschoolers?

What is the Pencil Body Shape?

Imagine a pencil – straight, elongated, and poised. In gymnastics, the pencil body shape refers to a posture where the body is stretched out, arms reaching overhead, legs straight, and toes pointed. It’s a position of alignment, balance, and focus. For a preschooler, mastering this shape is not just about gymnastics; it’s about laying the foundation for numerous developmental milestones.

The Multifaceted Benefits of the Pencil Body Shape

1. Physical Development:
The pencil shape strengthens the core, enhances posture, and promotes flexibility. As children hold and maintain this position, they’re working on muscle endurance, balance, and coordination – all essential for their growing bodies.

2. Cognitive Growth:
Maintaining the pencil shape requires concentration. As children focus on keeping their bodies aligned, they’re also honing their attention span, a skill that will benefit them in academic settings.

3. Emotional Resilience:
Holding the pencil shape can be challenging. It teaches children perseverance, patience, and the understanding that practice leads to improvement. These are invaluable life lessons that go beyond the gym.

4. Spatial Awareness:
Understanding how their body occupies space is a key aspect of a child’s spatial intelligence. The pencil shape, with its emphasis on alignment and elongation, helps children become more aware of their body’s position in relation to their surroundings.

The Little Movers Preschool Gymnastics Program: Where Pencil Meets Potential

At Momentum Athletic Center, our Little Movers program is designed with the holistic development of your child in mind. Here’s how we incorporate the pencil body shape into our curriculum:

1. Fun Activities:
From “Pencil Rolls” to “Sky Reaching Challenges,” we make learning the pencil shape a delightful experience.

2. Expert Coaches:
Our trained professionals understand the nuances of preschool development. They provide gentle guidance, ensuring every child feels supported.

3. Progressive Learning:
We recognize that every child is unique. Our program allows children to progress at their own pace, ensuring they master the pencil shape with confidence.

4. Safe Environment:
Safety is our top priority. Our state-of-the-art facility is equipped to provide a secure environment where your child can explore, learn, and grow.

Conclusion

The pencil body shape, while seemingly simple, is a powerhouse of developmental benefits. At Momentum Athletic Center’s Little Movers Preschool Gymnastics program, we’re passionate about unlocking the potential within every child. Through expert coaching, innovative activities, and a nurturing environment, we ensure that your child’s introduction to gymnastics is both fun and fruitful.

Join us today and watch your little one transform, one pencil shape at a time!