How 3-5-year-old Children have a Voice in Decision-making in a Gymnastics Programme
GymTOTS explorers
Olympian Gymnastics runs a GymTOTS programme for children aged 3-5 years called ‘explorers’. In explorers’ classes, each child attends the one-hour class alone. If children get upset at being separated from their parents, the coaches point out that the child can try the class for a few minutes, and if they are still upset, the coach can phone the parent. GymTOTS sessions use gymnastics and early childhood equipment. The structure of each class is:
Circle time – with all children in the class
There are coloured spots stuck on the floor around the room. Each child picks a spot and sits on it. Coaches start by asking children for their news or to share anything they want. Then one of the coaches reads a story, such as Jack and the Beanstalk, and the children do actions to accompany the story, such as chopping down the beanstalk. Children often lead the actions that accompany the story.
Group time – rotating through a circuit formation to all gym equipment
Children are divided into groups, and each group has the same coach every week, who knows and understands the needs of each child. Children can also try participating in a different group. The children rotate around the gym visiting the beams, bars, vaults, and floor. They follow the circuit with visual aids such as arrows, plastic hands and feet and stop spots. At each piece of equipment, coaches support and teach them to hop, jump, walk and learn skills. Children are free to take part in each activity or not to take part.
Cool down session – with all children in the class
At the end of the class, there is a cooldown session during which they sing songs. Each child is offered a fun stamp of participation. Those who want a stamp pick the colour and design of the stamp and where they want it – on their arm, leg, or hand.
How the children will be given SPACE, VOICE, AUDIENCE and INFLUENCE
Space: 
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Voice:
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Audience:
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Influence:
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