Beginner program in London and Strathroy
Our Beginner program is where young athletes discover rhythmic gymnastics.
What the program covers
- Ribbon, ball, hoop, rope and more
- Coordination, balance and flexibility through play
- A simple routine to show off at the end of the season
- All apparatus provided for beginners
- Parents welcome to stay and watch
About the Beginner program
It is made for children aged 3 to 12 with little or no experience, and it teaches the basics of movement, dance and apparatus in a fun, encouraging class. No experience is needed, and we provide all the equipment.
Unlike many sports that put competition first, rhythmic gymnastics builds movement skills through play. Classes use games and music, so kids build coordination, balance and flexibility while having fun. Shy children often blossom through the creative side of the sport, and coaches adapt how they teach to each child.
By the end of the season, your child will perform basic skills with ribbon, rope, ball and hoop, complete a simple routine, and be ready for the next level. For the first class, tie hair back and wear fitted athletic clothes, such as a leotard or leggings with a T-shirt.
Your child’s first season
From the first open house to the gala stage, here’s what a season with Gemstones looks like.
-
Step 1
Start at the free open house
Every season begins with a free open house, the first class on the schedule. Your child meets the coaches and gets to know the sport.
“My daughter loves it! Great coaches and fun routines. Glad we found Kathy and her team!”
Stephanie Gottheil, Google review
-
Step 2
The first class
No experience needed and all equipment is provided. Parents are welcome to stay and watch from start to finish.
“Gemstones is a wonderful place for all girls to feel welcome and to grow their skills.”
Caelan LeBlanc, Google review
-
Step 3
Learning the five apparatus
Ribbon, ball, hoop, rope and clubs, taught through games and music so kids build coordination, balance and flexibility while they play.
- Ribbon
- Ball
- Hoop
- Rope
- Clubs
“Love the lessons! My daughter can’t wait to go to class every week.”
Abby MacMillan, Google review
-
Step 4
Building a routine
Skills come together into a routine set to music. By the end of the season, every child can show a simple routine of their own.
“…really instil confidence in all their little Gems!”
Cassandra Mancini, Google review
-
Step 5
Gala night
The season ends with a gala: a non-competitive show where gymnasts perform their routines for family and friends.
“The end of session gala is a huge hit for both the kids and parents!”
jessica duplessis, Google review
Ready for more? Athletes can move up to the Performance program as their skills grow.
Register for the seasonReviews from Google. Shown as written by each reviewer.
Explore our other programs
Performance program
Advanced training for gymnasts with a solid base: complex routines, technique and performances.
Special Olympics program
Adapted routines and personal coaching for athletes with intellectual disabilities. All ability levels welcome.
Beginner program questions
Have a question that's not here? Get in touch.
My child has no dance or gymnastics experience. Can they join?
Yes. The Beginner program is designed for complete beginners. We start with basic skills and focus on each child's own progress.
Can parents watch classes?
Yes. Parents are welcome to stay and watch from start to finish, and most of our locations have seating. Feel free to take photos or videos.
Does my child need equipment?
No. We provide all apparatus for beginners.
What is rhythmic gymnastics?
An Olympic sport where athletes perform routines on the floor with a hoop, ball, clubs, ribbon or rope. It blends gymnastics and dance, and builds strength, flexibility, coordination and artistry.
What is the open house?
A free class at the very beginning of every season, and the first one on the schedule. Your child meets the coaches and tries the sport. Register for the season and it is your child's first class.
Where are classes held?
In three school gyms: St. Theresa Catholic School in Byron and Jack Chambers Public School near Masonville, both in London, and Our Lady Immaculate Catholic School in Strathroy.
How do I pay?
By cash, cheque or e-transfer to kathy@rhythmicgemstones.com. Please put your athlete's full name in the e-transfer notes.
Register for the Beginner program
Register for the season. Every season starts with a free open house, so your child meets the coaches at their very first class.
Classes in London and Strathroy, ON