Why We Prioritize Inclusivity

Every child, regardless of ability, deserves the chance to explore their physical capabilities, build confidence, and experience the joy and camaraderie that gymnastics and dance offer. We believe in creating spaces where children feel physically strong but emotionally uplifted. Children in our programs not only gain new skills but also experience the joy of being part of a community, making friends, and feeling truly accepted. It’s a magical thing to watch a child build strength, resilience, and self-worth through sports—and we see it every day. At Viking, we’ve built our programs around the core belief that inclusivity in gymnastics and dance doesn’t just benefit the children participating but enriches our entire community.

Enhancing Cognitive and Motor Skills

Both gymnastics and dance require coordination, balance, and focus. For participants with cognitive or developmental challenges, adaptive versions of these activities offer a structured way to develop these skills. Gymnastics encourages body awareness, spatial orientation, and coordination, while adaptive dance stimulates memory, pattern recognition, and timing. These programs are designed to meet participants at their skill level, ensuring they are challenged without being overwhelmed. Over time, this can enhance both fine and gross motor skills as well as cognitive functioning.

Social Benefits

Adaptive gymnastics and dance provide children with important social benefits, offering opportunities to build teamwork, friendship, and a sense of belonging. Socially, they experience the joy of working with others, which boosts emotional well-being and reduces feelings of isolation. Through these shared experiences, children develop resilience, creativity, and self-expression, all while forming lasting connections that enrich their overall quality of life.

“For children with disabilities, feeling welcomed and valued can have a transformative impact on their self-esteem. As an occupational therapist, I’ve seen the emotional toll that being reminded of differences can take on children with disabilities. Too often, they hear what they ‘can’t’ do, or feel separated from their peers due to therapies, special education, or medical appointments. At Viking, we work hard to change this narrative.” Sarah Roberts, M.S., OTR/L, Viking Adaptive & Inclusive Movement Program Leader.

Adaptive Dance

Viking’s adaptive dance classes offer a safe and supportive environment where children can express themselves through movement. The focus is on fostering creativity, coordination, and self-expression, allowing students to explore dance while practicing following directions and taking turns. These classes promote physical fitness and boost confidence, build friendships, and nurture a sense of accomplishment in every dancer.

Adaptive Gymnastics

Viking’s adaptive gymnastics classes are structured to meet each child’s developmental needs. Instructors focus on developing strength, coordination, and motor skills while fostering a positive, supportive atmosphere. Children will use Olympic equipment like bars, beams, and trampolines, but the emphasis remains on personal growth, teamwork, and having fun. “My son can participate in a class that helps with his physical well-being and creates a social experience as well. He loves being able to participate. I love how this program has helped my son gain confidence and independence.” Allison Clanin, mother of Adaptive Gymnastics Level 3 student.

Rising Stars Competitive Gymnastics Team

Rising Star gymnasts meet weekly to work on their skills and routines in order to participate in Special Olympics competitions.
Competitions are both local and national. In addition, some upper-level Rising Star gymnasts may compete in AAU Competitions. True to any team, these athletes do more than prepare to compete. They also participate in social events with each other and collaborate with other Viking teams. “This program has expanded my daughter’s world exponentially with opportunities for success.” Megan Sanchez, mother of Rising Star and TeamGym competitor.

Inclusive Programming

Viking continues to look for opportunities for inclusion within our programming. Our athletes have participated in Power TeamGym, a USA Gymnastics program under the umbrella called “Gymnastics For All” which is a “unified” co-ed team consisting of 50% children with disabilities/diagnoses and 50% “typically” developing children. We participate in various events and festivals in our community. Some of our Rising Star gymnasts also participate in our Junior Coach in Training program.

“TeamGym was an eye-opening experience. I forged connections with gymnasts of all abilities and learned skills including patience and endurance that I will carry on for years to come.” Maya Warren, TeamGym competitor. Viking understands that children learn invaluable life skills such as patience, teamwork, and respect in an inclusive setting. Working alongside peers with different abilities teaches children that progress doesn’t look the same for everyone. They come to understand that patience is essential—whether it’s waiting for a friend to finish their turn on the equipment, or learning that someone may need extra time or assistance.

Promoting Innovation and Creativity

Inclusivity also benefits coaches, instructors, and staff by fostering creativity and adaptability in their teaching methods. When instructors work with a diverse group of children, they are

 challenged to think outside the box, constantly adapting routines, exercises, and teaching strategies to ensure that every child can participate. This often leads to more dynamic and innovative approaches to training that can be applied to all athletes, not just those with disabilities.

At Viking, we encourage our coaches to look at each child’s strengths, finding ways to help them succeed while remaining engaged and motivated. This kind of adaptive thinking doesn’t just enhance the experience for children with disabilities—it makes all of our programming more flexible, inclusive, and enriching.

The Ripple Effect

Adaptive gymnastics and dance benefit the participants and positively impact those around them, fostering a more compassionate, inclusive, and understanding community. When typically developing children interact with peers of varying abilities, they learn valuable life skills such as empathy, patience, and respect for differences. Parents, coaches, and families also gain a deeper appreciation for diversity, witnessing the strength and determination of children overcoming challenges. Inclusive environments help break down stereotypes and encourage mutual support, as everyone works together toward shared goals. This creates a ripple effect, promoting a culture of acceptance and teaching the importance of embracing and celebrating each individual’s unique abilities.

Additionally, learning alongside peers with different needs prepares children to be more adaptable and resilient adults. It equips them with the social, emotional, and cognitive tools they need to succeed in a world that requires collaboration across differences. These early lessons in inclusivity create a generation that is better prepared to thrive in a diverse society.

Join Us in Building an Inclusive Community

We’re proud of the inclusive environment we’ve built at Viking and are constantly working to improve and expand our programs. Whether it’s through our adaptive classes, inclusive teams, or therapy partnerships, we strive to ensure that every child has the opportunity to be part of something bigger and to grow stronger both inside and out.

If you would like to learn more about our classes, teams, or other inclusive programs, please don’t hesitate to reach out. Together, we can make sure every child has a place to shine.

For more information, email aim@vikinggymnastics.com.