Gymboree Observation Paper

Gymboree is a program designed to help children learn and develop through play. This is a unique program because it incorporates parents within the program. The program I evaluated was a preschool prep program designed for children from the age of 28 months to 3 years old. Preschool prep is structured like a preschool class and helps the child prepare for when they start preschool. The class I evaluated was held two days a week from 2:30-4:30 on Tuesdays and Thursdays. I attended the Tuesday class on October 15, 2015. Gymboree has locations across the country; however, I attended the one located at Valencia Mall in Valencia, CA. Demographically, 76% of the population is Caucasian (source?). Valencia is a suburb of Los Angeles, and is known
As mentioned before, Gymboree focuses on three main areas of development learning, social skills, and confidence. These three aspects are crucial skills for children to learn and develop at a young age. Not only does Gymboree focus on the development of the child, but also focuses on creating a stronger bond between the parent and child. Although these positive aspects are important, there are negative aspects to Gymboree. From my observation, it seems that children were acting up when the parents were around. When parents would not discipline, it was difficult for the teacher to step in and discipline the child. According to the Gymboree website, the teachers are properly trained, but it was unclear to what degree the teachers are trained to. At many preschool prep schools, the teachers are qualified with a degree, whereas Gymboree seemed to have younger teachers. The cost is fairly expensive for a two to three day a week program; thus, it is not practical for low-income families. Lastly, it does not provide classes for children with special needs. This is a negative aspect to the program because it does not provide children of low-income families or children with special needs to same opportunities for learning, social skills, and confidence building. Although the teachers are not fully qualified, from my observation they still were doing a good job. A suggestion would be
These positive aspects, in my opinion, outweigh the negative. However, it is not perfect. My idea of a perfect program would be very similar to Gymboree, with minor changes. The foundation and philosophy of my ‘perfect’ program would the same as Gymboree. Incorporating parents and the placing an importance on the bond between parent and child. Also, the idea of having children grow and develop through play. Through this philosophy children would be building their confidence, social skills, and learning. My tweaks of the program, would be in the business aspect. I would have a program that would help low-income families, this class would be low-cost and would be offered later in day. This way parents who work during the day or if money is tight they are able to give their children the same opportunities. The staff would not only be ‘well-trained’, but the lead teachers would have a degree in child development or be working towards that goal. No program is perfect, every program has pros and cons, especially when dealing with children. I think it is important for parents to do their research before placing themself or child in a program. If a families system allows for a child to attend Gymboree, I would highly recommend