Very disappointing and unprofessional experience.
My wife recently took our two daughters, ages 5 and 2 (turning 3 in November), to TIMA Gymnastics for a free trial. Unfortunately, what should have been an exciting experience turned into a horrible one.
According to my wife, the experience was disorganized from the beginning. Nobody greeted her, explained where to go, or introduced her to anyone. Gymnastics and martial arts classes were happening in the same area, making it confusing and distracting for young children.
Our youngest was participating in warm-ups and following the gymnastics instructor, occasionally looking back to make sure her mom was still there. This was her very first class. However, a gymnastics helper told my wife that our daughter couldn't continue because she wasn't following directions, despite my wife observing her participate. I would expect more patience and encouragement for a first-time student, especially one so young.
Our youngest became upset and started crying, so my wife decided to take both girls home. While holding our crying child and trying to get our five-year-old's attention, a male martial arts instructor with curly hair and glasses repeatedly told her to move away from the mats, eventually raising his voice in front of other parents. My wife understood the safety rules, but felt his attitude and tone were rude, embarrassing, and unnecessary. He also spoke impatiently to our five-year-old while directing her where to walk.
What bothers me most is the lack of patience, empathy, and professionalism toward young children attending their first trial class. Both girls were wearing trial name tags, so staff knew they were new.
We genuinely considered enrolling both daughters because of the convenient location. Instead, my wife left feeling embarrassed and unwelcome, with our youngest in tears.
A child's first gymnastics experience should be welcoming and encouraging, not intimidating or discouraging. Based on how my family was treated, I cannot recommend this place. read more
