When you think of youth sports, typically your brain goes right to traditional sports like soccer, basketball, and baseball. While these sports offer great benefits like teamwork, discipline, and social skills, they aren’t always the right fit for every kid. If your kiddo doesn’t seem to connect with the structure or competition of traditional sports, don’t worry—they’re not alone! Let’s explore why traditional sports aren’t for every child and why that’s totally A-okay! Different Interests and Talents Not all kids are drawn to the same activities. But let’s face it—not every kid thrives in a team sport setting. Some kids thrive in more creative or individual settings where they can move at their own pace. Traditional sports often focus on specific roles, rules, and team dynamics that might not align with every child’s interests or natural given talents. Some kids prefer activities that let them be explore at their own pace, or push themselves in different ways. Must. Have. Variety. A LOT of kiddos crave variety and don’t enjoy repeating the same things over and over again...or they just need to constantly be moving! Traditional sports often require kids to focus on mastering specific skills for a game or specialize in one position, which can feel limiting for kids who prefer trying new things. These children might feel more engaged in sports or activities that mix different movements or disciplines–where there’s always something new and different to learn. Diverse Learning Styles Kids learn and grow in different ways. While traditional sports tend to focus on learning through repetition and drills, some children respond better to activities that are more hands-on or exploratory. Non-traditional sports can offer these kids a chance to develop their physical skills in environments that encourage creativity, collaboration and play. Prioritizing Fun For many kids, the main goal of participating in any activity is to have fun! In fact, many athletes quit sports because it’s just not fun anymore. While traditional sports can certainly be enjoyable, some kids may not find the structured practices, competitive games, or specific team roles as enjoyable as other physical activities. Some children are looking for an experience where they can jump, run, flip, trick and just let loose... and look pretty dang cool doing it too! Emotional and Social Needs Not every kiddo, or person for that matter, is extroverted or wants to be the life of the party. For children who are more introverted, shy, or even socially anxious, the thought of a team setting can feel a bit overwhelming (to say the least). These kids may feel more comfortable in activities that allow for both individual focus and smaller group dynamics, where they can build confidence and skills at their own pace. There's an Alternative Luckily, there are plenty of great alternatives for kids who don’t feel at home in traditional sports. Activities like NinjaZone, allow kids to develop strength, agility, coordination, and confidence while encouraging them to explore their unique abilities. They can challenge and push themselves in a whole new way. Bottom Line…Every Kid is Different! There’s no one-size-fits-all approach when it comes to finding the right activity for your child. Traditional sports aren’t for everyone, and that’s perfectly okay! The key is finding something that makes your child feel excited, confident, happy and healthy! Whether they’re flipping through NinjaZone, swimming laps, or exploring dance, there’s an activity out there that’s just right for them. We implore you to encourage your child to explore new activities and find their spark. And hey, who knows, you might just be surprised at what they can do!

Halloween is one of the most exciting times of the year for kiddos. Costumes, candy, and all things spooky, what’s not to love?! But to make sure the fun doesn’t come with any scaries, it’s super important to prioritize safety! Here’s how you can keep your Halloween night both safe and full of spooky fun! Safe and Comfy Costumes Let's get Visible, Visible -  If your kiddos is wearing a mask, make sure they can see clearly, or you can opt for face paint instead. Fit Check - Make sure costumes are easy to move in and that they fit properly to avoid trips and tumbles. Be sure to account for layers in case it's chilly! Light it Up, Up, Up - Choose bright colors if you can and if child’s costume is dark, add glow sticks, flashlights, or reflective tape to their costume to help them stay visible in the dark. Map Out the Trick-or-Treat Route Stay Close -  Stick to neighborhoods you know, where the streets are well-lit, and you feel comfortable. Plan Ahead -  Choose a route before heading out to avoid getting lost and to ensure maximum candy loot! Buddy System -  Kids should always be accompanied by a responsible adult. Stay with you group and make sure no one goes off alone! Candy Check Inspect the Loot - Wait to eat treats until you return home. Before your child digs into their candy stash, check all the treats. Be on the lookout for opened wrappers, anything unusual, or homemade treats from strangers. Oh and don't forget to take a few Reese's cups for a more thorough inspection. 😉 Allergy Beware - If your child has allergies, be extra cautious and mindful! No Tummy Aches - While Halloween is about indulging, try to moderate how much candy is eaten in one night to avoid tummy aches! Review Road Safety Basics Crosswalks - Remind kids to use crosswalks and always look both ways before crossing the street. Sidewalks - Stick to sidewalks, and if there are none, walk on the left side of the road facing traffic. Driver Awareness - Drivers may be distracted and caught up in the excitement on Halloween night, so remind your kids to stay alert! R-E-S-P-E-C-T Manners Matter - A little reminder never hurts to say “thank you” after getting treats. Only approach homes with porch lights on and always be polite when knocking. No Funny Business - Halloween pranks can get out of hand. Encourage your kids to have fun but not at someone else’s expense. Stay Safe at Home Pumpkin Safety - If you’re carving pumpkins, be cautious with sharp tools. Let younger children draw the designs, while an adult handles the carving. Decorations - Make sure all outdoor decorations are safe for trick-or-treaters. Avoid tripping hazards like cords or decorations that block pathways. Doesn't Hurt to have a Backup Plan Meeting Spot - Choose a meeting point in case anyone gets separated or lost. This is especially helpful for bigger groups. Curfew - If your kids are old enough to trick-or-treat without you, set a curfew and make sure they check in at a specific time. Inclement Weather - In case the weather doesn't go your way, have a back up plan so that the Halloween fun doesn't get double, double toil in trouble! Oh, and don't forget to have FUN! Halloween only comes once a year, so let's make the most of it! With a little planning and some focus on safety, you can ensure that your night is filled with spooky, safe, and super FUN memories. Follow these simple tips, and you’re guaranteed to have a Halloween filled with treats, laughter, and plenty of fun. Have SAFE and HAPPY Halloween! 🎃

In the world of athletics, whether on the field or in the gym, every achievement counts. Recognizing and celebrating these milestones, both big and small, plays a HUGE role in motivating young athletes to push toward their goals. From perfecting a new skill to advancing through a program, each success helps build a strong foundation of confidence. And here at NinjaZone, we LOVE that. 👏🏽👏🏽👏🏽 We take celebrating achievements to the NEXT LEVEL—literally! If you've been part of the NinjaZone Fam for a while, you're likely familiar with our Ninja Missions.  In case you're not, here's the lowdown: What’s a Ninja Mission? nin·​ja mis·​sion [noun] : an exclusive, invitation-only event that occurs when a ninja is ready to advance to the NEXT LEVEL! Through an exhibition of their skills and final approval from their coach, ninjas receive their next color-level headband, celebrating their mastery of skills! You may be thinking, "This sounds great, but why is leveling up and having a mission ceremony so important?" The Power of Recognition Mission Ceremonies play a huge role in a ninja’s development and motivation. By acknowledging the hard work, skill improvement, and dedication needed to advance through the program, these ceremonies boost kids' confidence and give them a chance to “use their butterflies”! It’s like unlocking a new level—where all of the sweat, focus, hard work and effort becomes a clear, celebrated milestone. Setting and Crushing Goals Leading up to the ceremony, ninjas learn how to set goals and what it means to work hard to achieve those goals. By providing a tangible goal for students to strive for, leveling up encourages consistent practice and self-improvement—which is extremely important these days as our children get accustomed to instant gratification. Ninjas know that they won’t level up on the first day, and that’s okay!It’s about the journey too, not just the destination. Strengthening the Ninja Fam And let’s not forget one of the best parts: the sense of community that these events foster. Mission Ceremonies are a celebration not just for the individual but for everyone involved—ninjas, parents, and coaches!  Alas… Celebrating a Ninja’s milestones keeps them motivated and reminds them that their hard work will pay off and be rightfully celebrated! Whether it’s earning a new headband or landing their first backflip, each achievement is a step toward being confident and empowered! So, here's to all the ninjas leveling up— your mission awaits !

For many of us, the first day of school has come and gone, and now the real journey begins! With the initial excitement and chaos settling down, parents may wonder what steps to take next to support their child throughout the entire school year. Not sure where to start? We get it—it can feel overwhelming, to say the least. So, we’ve created a comprehensive guide to help you navigate this time and ensure your child thrives academically, socially, physically, and emotionally! Let’s get into it…  Consistent Routines:  A consistent routine provides a sense of security and helps children manage their time effectively. Plus, it helps them develop good habits and manage their responsibilities more efficiently. Ensure that your child has: A regular bedtime and wake-up time Designated homework and study time Set times for meals and family activities Stay Organized:  Organization is KEY to a smooth school year. It will reduce stress and help you both stay on top of the important stuff! Here are some tips: Use a family calendar to track school events, deadlines, and extracurricular activities. Create a designated area for school supplies and backpacks to keep everything in one place—no more tracking down the dog in the morning to see if they ate the homework! Encourage your child to use a planner or digital calendar to keep track of assignments and projects. Monitor Academic Progress:  Regularly check in on your child’s academic progress. Keep it casual—talk about their experiences and challenges in school. Staying informed allows you to provide them with the support and even intervention if needed. Here ’s how: Review homework and completed assignments together. Use online school portals to monitor grades and feedback from teachers. Communicate with Teachers:  Build a positive relationship with your child’s teachers. This way, you can stay up to date with your child’s strengths and areas they may need some extra help in. Effective communication includes: Attending parent-teacher conferences. Keeping in touch via email or school communication platforms. Being proactive in addressing any concerns or questions. Encourage a Growth Mindset:  This is possibly one of our favorites! A growth mindset helps children develop resilience and a love for learning! Foster a growth mindset in your child by: Praising effort and hard work, not just results. Encouraging them to embrace challenges and learn from their mistakes. Discussing strategies for overcoming obstacles. Encouraging them to think outside of the box. Support Social and Emotional Well-Being:  School is super important, but your child’s emotional well-being is just as important! A balanced approach will help your kiddo feel secure and supported. Here ’s how to support your child: Encourage open conversations about their feelings and experiences. Help them develop friendships and social skills. Teach stress management techniques, such as deep breathing, mindfulness, and even reflection. Promote Healthy Habits:  Good physical health supports academic success—trust us on this! Ensure your child: Eats a balanced diet (you’ve got this!) Gets regular exercise and physical activity. Gets plenty of sleep! Engage in School Activities:  This can be super tough because we are all so pressed for time these days! However, if you are able to squeeze it in, even if it’s just once, it can truly mean a lot to your kiddo Get involved in your child’s school life by: Volunteering for school events or activities. Participating in parent-teacher organizations or committees. Attending school performances, games, and other events. Active participation shows your child that you value their education and are invested in their school community. Encourage Extracurricular Involvement:  Extracurricular activities help children explore interests and develop fun, new skills. Support your child by: Helping them choose activities they are passionate about. Balancing their schedule to prevent burnout. Encouraging them to try new things and step out of their comfort zone. Extracurriculars enrich their school experience and personal growth! Might we suggest a ninja class?! ;) Foster Independence:  As hard as it can be, gradually giving your child more responsibility and independence can prepare them for challenges ahead—plus, it builds confidence! Will things take a little longer to get done? Maybe, but they’ll never know until they try! This can include: Allowing them to manage their homework and study schedule. Encouraging them to solve problems and make decisions. Teaching them life skills, like time management and organization. The start of the school year is just the beginning! By establishing routines, staying organized, and supporting your child’s academic and emotional needs, you can help them navigate the school year with confidence. Just remember, your involvement and encouragement play a super important role in their overall development and happiness. Here’s to a fun & fantastic school year full of growth, success, and happy memories!

It’s a fast paced world out there and the pressure to keep up can feel nearly impossible. Now more than ever, it’s extremely important to prioritize your child’s mental health and overall well being. While many activities can contribute to a child's physical fitness, few offer the comprehensive mental and emotional benefits found at NinjaZone. We’re going to explore how NinjaZone's unique approach to training can positively impact your child's life for years to come. Did you know? Anxiety affects 9.4% of children aged 3-17 years in the US. ( www.cdc.gov ) Let’s get into it…  1. Confidence and Self-Esteem - In NinjaZone, their confidence is #1. The structured challenges encourage kids to set goals, work hard to achieve them, and celebrate their successes! This process helps foster a positive self-image and boosts self-esteem. It let’s them know that they can do hard things! 2. Stress and Anxiety - Being active is a proven way to reduce stress and anxiety. NinjaZone's dynamic and engaging curriculum helps release all the endorphins, aka, our natural mood lifters! The focus required in training also provides a healthy distraction from daily worries and pressures, promoting a sense of calm and balance. Zen, baby! 3. Focus and Concentration - Learning and mastering ninja skills requires ninjas to concentrate and really pay attention to details. This improved focus not only helps them in their training but also translates to better concentration in school and other areas of life! Enhancing cognitive function in this way supports overall mental sharpness and can lead to excelling in academics! That’s an A+ to us.  4. Resilience and Perseverance - Learning to face challenges head-on and push through when things get tough is a core part of NinjaZone. Ninjas learn that failure is just a step toward success. As you can imagine, fostering resilience and perseverance is crucial for mental health. It’s what helps kids handle setbacks with a positive and determined mindset. 5. Social Skills and Community -. Ninjas interact with peers & coaches, build friendships, and learn the importance of teamwork and mutual support–creating their own community. These positive social interactions enhance their sense of belonging and improve their overall social skills. 6. Positive Mindset - The supportive and encouraging environment will help promote a growth mindset. Ninjas learn to view challenges as opportunities for growth rather than obstacles. Kind of ironic, but pretty sweet nonetheless. This positive approach to learning can significantly boost their mental well-being and create a more positive outlook on life. 7. Accomplishment - Every milestone achieved, whether it's mastering a sick new ninja move or completing a challenging obstacle course, gives ninjas a profound sense of accomplishment. This not only boosts their confidence but also imparts progress and success, reinforcing their motivation and self-worth. Ninja Missions set the stage for this!  8. Mind-Body Connection - Creating a connection between mind and body allows kids to learn to control their movements, improve their balance, and understand their physical capabilities. This awareness can improve mindfulness and overall mental clarity.  Bottom Line:   We understand better than most, that an early positive experience is crucial.   Ninja might seem like it’s just another activity for your kiddo, but truly, it’s way bigger than that. NinjaZone is a holistic approach to your child's development - mind & body, physical & mental. And that, my friends, is powerful stuff!

We put a lot of pressure on moms, as a culture. Sometimes there’s a lack of credit given to dads. But as we know… Dads. Are. Awesome. Ninja Dads aren’t necessarily a special breed, but let’s be honest, their kids are ninjas. Thus, by association, the dads are equally as special. We sat down with a Ninja Dad, we discussed NinjaZone and his ninja's experiences in class. What we learned is that the NinjaZone program is doing a lot more than promoting physical fitness for kids. It’s changing their lives. Interviewer: Do you have a boy or girl ninja? Ninja Dad: Girl. Interviewer How long has she been a ninja? Ninja Dad: 3 months. Interviewer: What made you decide to enroll her in a NinjaZone class? Ninja Dad: She hasn’t really found a sport for her, and really hasn’t wanted to try any except softball. We wanted to put her in something that was active and might give her a little confidence boost. Interviewer: Have you seen a difference in her or her confidence since she started classes? Ninja Dad: Yes, she is slowly coming out of her shell, but it’s still a challenge.  A good coach can bring out a lot in a child, and when you have a kid who doesn’t want to play sports, it’s hard to accomplish.  This was a perfect fit because she was immediately interested in all the rolling, jumping, kicking, and flipping.  Like any sport, this allows for individual accomplishment and group interaction while having a coach rooting them on.  It’s everything we/she needed when she didn’t want to play a sport.  It’s almost a hidden sport, where it tricks kids into teaching them athleticism and confidence with the small wins during the class. They just think they are having fun, but we know they are learning. Interviewer: How soon after starting classes did you notice a difference in her confidence? Ninja Dad: 2nd class! Our gym has the kids ring a bell when they accomplish something new and hard, and then they perform it for the entire gym.  After the first class, she immediately brought up that she didn’t like the bell (because the last thing an introvert wants is to be on stage).  But during the 2nd class, her trio of girls accomplished a new skill together and she rang the bell.  She may not have liked it, but she did it! Interviewer: What a proud papa! What is the best thing you have seen from a NinjaZone class? Ninja Dad: Skills, listening, fun, confidence, everything you want out of it.  She loves it. Interviewer: From a parent’s perspective, what role do you see the Trainers having in shaping the lives of the ninjas they coach? Ninja Dad: A good coach in anything is an incredible mentor for kids.  The same applies here. NinjaZone helps kids learn and succeed at something, even those kids who have avoided group sports. The awesome thing about NinjaZone is that skills don’t have to look pretty, so even if it looks like a kid is faltering, to the kids and coaches, it can still be celebrated as a success. Interviewer: Was your daughter interested in gymnastics before she started NinjaZone classes? Ninja Dad: Not one bit. We enrolled her in a little program with her sister when she was 4 and she hated it. Interviewer: Interesting. Something that she wasn’t interested in has really become one of her favorite activities. Do you find that your daughter is displaying “ninja characteristics” outside of class? Ninja Dad: Somewhat. She’s always been a climber and jumper, likes to get dirty, and rolls around, so those are not new. I feel like it’s too soon to see if there are other character changes, besides her confidence soaring, which I can see in every class. Interviewer: What is the biggest piece of advice you can give to a parent who is thinking of enrolling their child in a NinjaZone class? Ninja Dad: It doesn’t hurt to try it… you might be surprised.  Just show your child the YouTube videos of what ninjas do in class, and maybe it will connect with them! Thanks Ninja Dads!

It’s been uttered more times than we could ever count. Heck, it’s probably being said right now! This mindset and similar ones can lead to children and parents pushing to specialize in one sport. Early sport specialization is on the rise and is now beginning to affect even the youngest of athletes in hopes of gaining the competitive edge. However, numerous studies and experts suggest that participating in multiple sports actually offers a range of benefits that can lead to more well-rounded, healthier, and ultimately more successful athletes and humans! Did you know? Fewer than 2 percent of NCAA student-athletes go on to be professional athletes. (www.nfhs.org) Here’s why your athlete should consider embracing a multi-sport experience: 1. Lower Risk of Overuse Injuries - Playing multiple sports allows athletes to develop different muscle groups and reduces the stress being put on specific parts of the body over and over again. This variation helps prevent injuries and ensures a more balanced physical development. 2. Diversify Athletic Skills - Different sports emphasize different skills–coordination, agility, strength, endurance, etc. etc. Participating in multiple sports allows athletes to diversify their skills. 3. Mental Resilience - Different challenges and environments foster adaptability. They are exposed to a wider range of scenarios, strategies, and dynamics, which only strengthens their problem-solving abilities and mental toughness! 4. Avoiding Burnout - Do you like doing the same thing over and over and over again? Maybe, but chances are, probably not. Plus, the intense pressure and focus put on one singular sport can make an athlete fall out of love with it. Their passion for sport can be maintained by keeping things fresh and exciting by being introduced to new sports! 5. Greater Social Development - This may have not even crossed your mind but, different sports = different social circles. That means your kid will have built a broader network of friends and mentors leading to better social, teamwork, and communication skills. Learning to interact with diverse groups of people is so beneficial on and off the field! 6. Long-Term Success - Research indicates that multi-sport athletes are more likely to achieve long-term success. Many professional athletes attribute their success to playing multiple sports during their youth. The diverse skill set provides a solid foundation for excelling later in life.. no matter what that might be! 7. Discovering Their True Passion - Giving them the opportunity to try different sports allows them to discover what they are genuinely passionate about. This can lead to a more fulfilling and enjoyable athletic career… wherever that might lead! Mom… Dad… here’s how you can help … Encourage Variety Balance Schedules Educate Benefits Support Interests Positive Reinforcement At NinjaZone, we love when kiddos come to us to explore something new, broaden their athletic abilities, cross-train, or even as their intro into athletics! The skills your child will undoubtedly gain will transfer over to any sports they choose to pursue! Bottom Line: Encouraging your athlete to explore various sports can provide them with the tools they need for a balanced, rewarding and successful athletic journey!

It’s 2024, and the world of sports is nothing short of demanding. Our kids are faced with immense pressure to perform and perform well. Learning how to handle pressure is a great skill to be learned, but what happens when that line gets blurred? The question now becomes, are they dedicated or are they overexerting themselves? As parents we want what’s best for our kids (obvs) so it’s imperative that we help our kiddos establish healthy boundaries to sustain success and well-being–physically & mentally. Here’s why… 1. Preventing Burnout Getting ample rest and recovery will maintain their enthusiasm and consistent performance. We say it all the time… if it’s not fun, it doesn’t stick. 2. Maintaining Physical Health Making sure training schedules, nutrition, and sleep are in harmonious balance. This will prevent over-training and (hopefully) prevent long-term injuries. 3. Ensuring Mental Well-Being Balancing sports with hobbies, social activities, and downtime promotes mental resilience and a well-rounded life–reducing anxiety and managing unneeded stress. Who needs more stress? Not us. 4. Building Healthy Relationships Maintaining strong personal connections by fostering respectful relationships with coaches, teammates, friends and family. Talk about a supportive environment to raise your kid in! 5. Encouraging Personal Growth Allowing kids to explore interests and skills outside their sport. This only adds to their personal development, creating a more balanced identity. We love a well-rounded kid! 6. Enhancing Performance Some R&R is good for the soul and body. It allows your athlete to recharge, improving the training effectiveness when they are on the field. They can focus better during practice and competitions! “So, how do I help them set healthy boundaries?” ...We're so glad you asked! Encourage athletes to understand their needs and limits by reflecting on what works best for THEM–every kid is different! Maintain open dialogues about the importance of boundaries. Creating an open line of communication lets your kiddo know you are always in their corner. Make sure your athlete knows the signs of burnout and over-training. You don’t want them to figure out the hard way if you can help it. Develop consistent routines that include rest, nutrition, and downtime. And, If needed, sports psychologists and other professionals are always there to help! Putting It All Together Healthy boundaries are not about limiting an athlete’s potential; they are about safeguarding their well-being to ensure they can be in it for the long run. The sooner we can recognize and respect their limits (physical & mental), the longer athletes can have a healthier, more successful and FUN career. Remember, the goal here is to nurture a lifetime of love for sport, not just winning the next game. Encouraging boundaries is the first step in the right direction. You got this.

Attention all YMCA decision makers and leaders... this one's for you! The YMCA has long been a trusted community partner, granting opportunities for families all around the US and beyond to improve their health and well-being. BUT, that doesn't mean there hasn't been challenges along the way. At NinjaZone, we’ve partnered with hundreds of community centers, gyms and YMCAs (40+) around the country to launch and scale successful youth programs following our proven process. Through these ninja endeavors, we've spoken to A LOT of YMCA leaders and they've all expressed two common challenges. Can you guess what they are? Take a second. Think about it. Ok, let's go... Two of the Y's biggest challenges: 1. Diversifying offerings to set themselves apart from the competition, and 2. Capitalizing on underutilized space. Yep, we thought these might have sounded familiar. Geesh, wouldn’t it be nice to provide a great experience for your community that engages them, doesn’t require a ton of effort, utilizes your square footage and has high-margin operations??? Oh boy, do we have a solution for youth programming that will TRULY be a game-changer for your community center. Que, NinjaZone. You might be wondering, so, what is NinjaZone? We’re so glad you asked! NinjaZone is a super-dynamic program that blends elements of gymnastics, parkour, tricking, and obstacle course racing. BUT… that’s not all! We’ve made it our mission to empower kiddos of all ages to push their limits, focus their energy, build confidence, and have a blast doing it! This mind/body connection is crucial for every child’s lifelong development. OK, so why NinjaZone? NinjaZone is training, educating, and teaching ninjas how to flip in over 250 gyms worldwide and we don’t plan on stopping anytime soon! We have committed ourselves to supporting centers like yours, families, athletes, and coaches by seeing the program through their eyes: what it means to them, what it looks like, and where it’s going. Here’s what we mean by that: Parents: Through unparalleled brand strength and top-notch marketing strategies, there’s zero question that their child is in capable hands. We understand parents' desires for their children to achieve their goals, gain confidence, and, most importantly, have fun! (Spoiler alert: If it’s not fun, it doesn’t stick!) Coaches: Our sustainable training systems make staff transitions a breeze, ensuring continuity and excellence in coaching. Additionally, our supportive ninja coach community fosters collaboration, growth, and a shared passion for empowering ninjas to reach their full potential! Decision Makers & Business Owners: We prioritize the individual needs of each center, offering tailored solutions to convert underutilized spaces into thriving opportunities. Programming that not only meets the demand for enrichment activities but also enhances the center's appeal, upping the coolness factor and attracting a broader audience. Kids: All ninjas are celebrated–whether they're beginners just starting their movement journey or seasoned ninjas mastering advanced techniques. Kids get hooked on NinjaZone, in large part, due to gamified programming that turns physical activity into a real-life video game! How sweet is that?! We believe wholeheartedly that NinjaZone aligns perfectly with the YMCA’s mission to promote health, wellness, and community by providing innovative and high-quality programming. We're excited about the impact it will have on your members, families, kiddos and beyond! Ready to learn even more? Book a discovery call today! 📍NinjaZone Racquetball Court @ Littleton YMCA, Denver, CO! The Y just got even more fun! Be safe, have fun and ninja on!

Ready to ditch the cold weather and leave cabin fever in the dust? Yeah, us too! How about a good old fashioned obstacle course...in your driveway?! It’s so tried and true, and is one of the most versatile tools you can have in your back pocket as a parent this spring & summer… and beyond! Plus, you’ll get cool points for dayzzz. Oh, and the clean-up? Easy peasy! We must say, making it is half the fun! So grab some chalk & some friends, head outside and let your imagination run wild! Here's some sidewalk chalk inspo for your epic obstacle course! Okay, Let's goooo! Ready for more?! Here's some quick and easy add-ins for your course that are sure to keep your kiddo(s) movin! Playing outside just got way more fun! Be safe, have fun and ninja on!

Talk about versatility. It’s a toy, it’s furniture… it’s a springboard for your kiddo’s imagination! Which makes those neurological pathways light up... And we love that! 👏🏽👏🏽 Check out these ways to Ninjafy your Nugget at home! Playtime just got way more fun! Be safe, have fun and ninja on! Don't have a Nugget? We are not affiliated, we just love the product. Check out their website! nuggetcomfort.com

By Anna Clifford- Pediatric Sleep Consultant, Tummy Time Instructor The influence of developmental milestones on sleep is imperative to understand for our children. Development milestones can significantly impact a child's sleep patterns, leading to what is commonly known as sleep regressions. These milestones encompass various physical, social, emotional, and cognitive advancements that a child achieves during their growth journey. A sleep regression occurs when your child, who has been sleeping well, suddenly experiences difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep. Does this sound familiar for your little one? Interestingly, sleep regressions often align with major developmental milestones in a child's growth journey. As infants and toddlers reach developmental milestones such as rolling over, crawling, teething, or learning to walk, their brains undergo significant changes. While these advancements are crucial for their overall development, they can disrupt established sleep routines. The process of mastering new skills may result in increased nighttime awakenings, changes in sleep duration, or difficulty falling asleep. Understanding this relationship between sleep and development is essential for parents, as it allows them to anticipate potential sleep challenges during periods of significant developmental progress. Here are some of the physical skills your little one is learning at each sleep regression age: 4 months- bring hands to mouth, pushes up on elbows during tummy time, holds head steady when being held, transitions to more sleep cycles similar to adults (5 rather than 2 newborn sleep cycles) 6 months- rolls from tummy to back, pushes up with straight arms, learning to sit up by leaning on hands, 9 months- beginning stages of talking (mamama, dadada), gets to sitting position by themself, passes objects from one hand to the other, sits up without support, beginning stages of crawling 12 months- pulls up to standing, walks while holding onto furniture, picks objects up with pointer finger and thumb (pincer grasp), saying “mama” & “dada” 18 months- walks without any assistance, feeds themselves with fingers, climbs on and off couch or chair without help 2-2.5 years old- kicks a ball, runs, walks up a few stairs, eats with a spoon Source: https://www.cdc.gov/ncbddd/actearly/milestones/index.html While there are numerous social, emotional, and cognitive developmental milestones, our emphasis will remain on the physical aspects. Infants and toddlers are perpetual learners, consistently exploring the world around them, which provides constant stimulation to their developing brains. Could you imagine learning and exploring a new world as soon as you’re awake and until you fall asleep? Every day? This is what your little one is experiencing even through toddlerhood! Continuous brain stimulation throughout the day can naturally induce fatigue, paving the way for the potential of better quality sleep. While learning is inherently stimulating and can enhance sleep quality, excessive stimulation can disrupt sleep patterns. As we learn new skills, the brain retains information during sleep, processing it for enhanced memory and skill performance. During a sleep regression, the brain works overtime due to the demands of acquiring and mastering new skills. Therefore, a sleep regression and/or developmental milestone can affect sleep due to the brain working overtime during the day and can’t switch off when it's time to sleep. Sleep regressions, lasting for 2+ weeks, can be attributed to the challenge of acquiring new skills. When a child doesn't receive the recommended amount of sleep, the brain's processing and retention capabilities are compromised, delaying the learning process. This phenomenon explains why it takes days, weeks, or even months for children to master new skills and why sleep can be affected over an extended period during these developmental phases. Here are my top tips to survive during your little one’s (many) sleep regressions: Ideal sleep environment Age-appropriate daytime AND nighttime schedule Stay as consistent as possible with a routine and daily schedule Put your child to sleep the same way every time (including bedtime, middle of the night, early mornings, and naps) DO NOT add in a bunch of desperate additions to the routine in order to help them fall asleep DO NOT add in anything that you don’t want to become a new habit if they didn’t already need it to fall asleep (i.e. feeding/motion to sleep, co-sleeping if didn’t do it before, etc) Give yourself grace! Early exposure to activities like NinjaZone can significantly contribute to the development of coordination, balance, gross motor skills, strength, and confidence in your little one. Providing ample opportunities for practicing these skills during the day can mitigate potential sleep disruptions, fostering a healthier sleep routine. At NinjaZone, your little one will learn to explore and understand their body's movements at their own pace, fostering a sense of self-awareness and safety. In essence, understanding the intricate connection between learning, developmental milestones, and sleep is crucial for fostering well-rounded and healthy growth for your little one. Activities like NinjaZone not only enhance physical abilities but also contribute to overall well-being by instilling confidence, safety awareness, and the joy of movement. As your child navigates the exciting process of acquiring new skills, maintaining a supportive environment with ample opportunities for practice during the day can positively influence their sleep, fostering a harmonious and thriving developmental experience. Anna Clifford, with Happy Little Ones, is a pediatric sleep consultant, wife, and mom of 3 based in Johnson City, Tennessee. With over two decades of gymnastics teaching experience, Anna draws on her expertise to support families navigating sleep challenges. Anna specializes in toddler sleep, offering her expertise to families in East Tennessee and nationwide. Her goal is to guide parents in creating enjoyable bedtime routines, reducing night wakings, conquering naps, and waking up to happy little ones. In addition, Anna has developed her own Tummy Time virtual class, making valuable information about tummy time and its benefits easily accessible for parents seeking to enhance their child's development. Find me on Social! @happylittleonesllc happylittleonesllc.com Wishing you sleep-full nights, Anna Clifford