By Anna Skinner
Gymboree is celebrating 40 years worldwide, and Mike and Wendy Shultz, co-owners of the Carmel and Greenwood locations, have owned the local Gymboree, 12524 N Gray Rd., since 1994.
“We are probably best known for our Gymboree Play and Learn classes where we teach physical skills, social skills and cognitive skills,” Mike said. “All this equipment is (Gymboree’s) and won’t be seen anywhere else.”
Every other week, the equipment is torn apart and reassembled in a different theme.
Gymboree offers music, art and other classes with most classes lasting 45 minutes. Wendy also teaches at Gymboree.
“I brought her here on a transfer from Michigan and she was looking for something to do with our one-year-old,” Mike said of how they were first introduced to Gymorbee. “She enjoyed it and it came up for sale, so we bought it.”
All Gymboree employees must have previous experience with children, such as education or child development.
Parents purchase memberships to Gymboree, and one class a week is $65 a month. Those who purchase a class also get unlimited play time in the playscape. Class age ranges from birth to 5 years old.
“What’s real important to us is if you miss a class, no matter what you can make it up in any other age-appropriate class,” Mike said. “That’s so people don’t feel obligated to come when they’re sick.”
Gymboree also rents out the facility for birthday parties.
To celebrate 40 years, Mike and Wendy will host a variety of activities including a National Day of Play 1:30 to 5 p.m. June 25. No sign-up is required and all are welcome to stop by the Carmel or Greenwood locations for playtime.
There are 700 Gymboree businesses in 40 nations. For more, call 317-574-9626 or visit gymboreeclasses.com.
