How to Create an Integrated Tumbling Class ... as Described by a 4-Year-Old

AJ is taking a tumbling/gymnastics class this summer through the rec department in Oshkosh. It's one of those things where he cries and throws a fit that he doesn't want to go and then has a splendid time. (I signed him up solely for the socialization to help him develop those skills.)

After his first class, he asked about Teddy taking gymnastics. I explained that Teddy is too young this year because you have to be at least 3 to take this class. I said Teddy would be old enough next year. AJ informed me there were some things they did in class that Teddy already knows how to do, like bear crawling. AJ said there were some things that Teddy would need help with, like the activities that involve jumping. "It's OK, Mama. I will tell the teacher, 'You can help Teddy with this.'"

There you have how to integrate a child with different abilities into a gymnastics class through the rec department. Do what you can how you can and ask for help when you need it. That's truly how simple it can be for a child like Teddy. I hope the Oshkosh rec department feels the same way next summer. If not, I guess I'll just have AJ explain it to them. (Because, by golly, Teddy sees all those mats and wants to join the fun!)