Australia’s leading fundamental movement program for children 0-5 years.
Movement is crucial for a child’s development. KinderGym allows children to learn new skills, develop fundamental movement skills, and take risks in a safe and fun environment. It’s about providing experiences that positively influence a child’s outlook on physical activity for life.
Gymnastics South Australia only endorses the very best clubs to be part of our affiliated club network. Our clubs must meet the highest quality standards, so when you’re looking for the best start for your child, ensure you choose an affiliated KinderGym for the greatest peace of mind.
The history of KinderGym
For over 40 years, KinderGym has given Australian children the start they need to live active, healthy lives.
KinderGym started in South Australia in 1980 after Dr Carol Pinnock was inspired by a movement program for pre-schoolers that she attended with her son in Berkeley, California.
Supported by the community and allied services, KinderGym quickly grew, and by 1986, 10 satellite programs were running across Adelaide. In 1993 KinderGym became a national program embraced by Gymnastics Australia.
KinderGym remains relevant to the community and is the second most popular activity for children aged 0-5, after swimming. Today over 40,000 Australian children participate in the program annually.
The KinderGym Philosophy
KinderGym benefits children not only physically but also socially, emotionally, and cognitively.
KinderGym provides opportunities for children, regardless of physical ability or impairment, to explore and develop their physical skills at their own rate in a gender-inclusive, non-competitive atmosphere.
Developing a positive outlook on physical activity for life
Positive movement experiences in the early years influence a child’s outlook on physical activity for life.
Safe, supported learning grows confidence and self-esteem
Our structured, multi-sensory environment allows children to creatively explore and practice skills safely, growing confidence and self-esteem.
KinderGym is a fun, social way to strengthen bonds
KinderGym provides a fun environment where children and their caregiver can strengthen bonds through playing together.
Meet the advisory board behind KinderGym
Our Advisory Board is a nominated group of external advisors who assist us in reviewing KinderGym’s development and progress in South Australia through their expertise and knowledge of human movement and childhood development.
Scott is a trained Health and Physical Education teacher, experienced Physical Education Teacher Educator (PETE) and Program Director. He is responsible for academic leadership in the planning, management, development, quality assurance and improvement, and growth of all Human Movement single and double degrees at UniSA. Scott is passionate about developing children’s movement literacy.
Scott Adams
Program Director: Human Movement at UniSA
Dr Karyn Carson is a Lecturer and Researcher in the College of Education, Psychology, and Social Work at Flinders University. She is a certified speech-language pathologist and has worked extensively in early intervention with school-aged children with spoken language and literacy disorders. Karyn has also worked in health-based settings with adults experiencing communication and swallowing difficulties.
Dr Karyn Carson
Speech-Language pathologist, Lecturer and Researcher
Sam completed his undergraduate physiotherapy degree and a Masters of Sports Physiotherapy, following his successful career as an international gymnast. Sam represented Australia at 6 World Championships, culminating in 2 gold medals at the 2010 Delhi Commonwealth Games. Sam uses his knowledge of elite sport and physiotherapy to benefit Gymnastics Australia & South Australia.
Sam Offord
Physiotherapist & Commonwealth Games Gold Medallist
About Gymnastics SA
Gymnastics South Australia is the peak body for gymnastics in our state and is affiliated with Gymnastics Australia. Our mission is to promote gymnastics, develop our people, and grow our sport.
Encompassing six gym sports, including the Olympic disciplines of men’s and women’s artistic, rhythmic and trampoline gymnastics, aerobic gymnastics, and Gymnastics for All (including KinderGym), gymnastics provides opportunities for all.
Participation programs are designed to provide fun, fitness, friendship, and fundamental movement skills in a safe and positive environment suited to all ages and abilities. Our high-performance programs develop athletes aiming for success within the national and international arena.
