Hello again readers! Today I thought I would share some of my favorite resources found around the Valley.
Gold Medal Gymnastics
They have an open gym at both locations. Their hours change, but for the summer the gym will be open on Fridays at 11 and some Wednesdays at 11. They prefer you call ahead so they have a head count. It is $5 per visit (one hour) and kids are allowed to play on any of the equipment with parent supervision. It is open for younger children 6 months to 5 years. There is also a Groupon available a lot of times and punch cards at the gym for a discounted rate. There are two locations, one in Tempe and another in Chandler. If you live in Chandler, you can also sign up through Chandler Park & Rec, which is also available for $3/visit. I love this place! It’s a great place to work on gross motor skills and sensory integration for younger kids.
USA Youth Fitness Center in Gilbert and Queen Creek also has open gyms. I have not experienced an open gym there, but have been there for a birthday party. I believe they also have times on the weekends for working families!
Messy Play at First Baptist Church in Tempe
Need a FREE place to take your kids for some great messy play? Twice a month The Baptist Church sets up a messy play area in their gymnasium. They have all kinds of tactile play areas including homemade play dough, water table, sand, and more. They also have a playground outside available for use as well. Activities are available on the second and fourth Thursdays each month from 9-11:30 however they take the summer off. Children 0-6 are welcome to participate! You can find more information on their Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/FirstBaptistChurchMessayPlay/?fref=ts
We Rock the Spectrum in Scottsdale
Another great indoor place that is open every day is We Rock the Spectrum. Originally created as a safe place for kids with autism, it is now available for all kids. There are opportunities for open gym, camps, classes, and parties. They sometimes have a Groupon as well. For more information check out their Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/werockthespectrumscottsdale/or website: http://www.werockthespectrumscottsdale.com/
I also recommend checking out your local Parks and Recreation. They have several classes to sign up for and information on parks and other activities available. Here are the websites for a few towns around the Valley.
Phoenix: https://www.phoenix.gov/parks
Chandler: http://www.chandleraz.gov/default.aspx?pageid=732
Tempe: http://38.106.5.181/city-hall/community-services/recreation-services
Gilbert: http://www.gilbertaz.gov/departments/parks-and-recreation
These are my OT-approved places in the valley. I am sure there are plenty of others out there. I would love to hear about your places in the comments!
Alexa Benson, MOT, OTR/L