Special Olympics program in London and Strathroy
Our Special Olympics program celebrates rhythmic gymnastics for athletes with intellectual disabilities.
What the program covers
- Routines adapted to each athlete
- Personal coaching to set and reach goals
- Body skills: leaps, balances and turns
- Ribbon, ball, hoop, clubs and rope
- All apparatus provided
About the Special Olympics program
Coaches adapt routines so every athlete can take part and thrive, in an inclusive class built around fitness, courage and friendship. All ability levels are welcome and no experience is needed.
Rhythmic gymnastics combines athletics and artistry, and puts grace and movement ahead of high-impact skills, which makes it open to a wide range of abilities. Athletes with mobility challenges can take part fully.
We keep coach-to-athlete ratios small, use adaptive equipment and mats, and build skills step by step. Athletes perform at our season-end galas and can join the Performance program if they wish.
Your child’s first season
From the first open house to the gala stage, here’s what a season with Gemstones looks like.
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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
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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
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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
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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
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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
Beginner program
For ages 3 to 12 with little or no experience. Kids learn ribbon, ball, hoop and rope through games and music.
Performance program
Advanced training for gymnasts with a solid base: complex routines, technique and performances.
Special Olympics program questions
Have a question that's not here? Get in touch.
Who can join?
Athletes of all abilities, including those with physical or intellectual disabilities. No experience is needed.
Do athletes need their own equipment?
No. All apparatus is provided, though athletes may bring personal items such as grip aids if they like.
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 Special Olympics 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