Adaptive Gymnastics

Confidence, hope and possibilities are created for children when they are able to try new things. Through the power of play, physical activity and gymnastics, we are helping children realize their abilities. Our Adaptive programming uses the sport of gymnastics and focuses primarily on gross motor movements, understanding that the level of participation varies with each student and their level of physical or cognitive independence. We use the gymnastics apparatus and adapt the skills to each individual and their abilities. Our program has 5 levels of classes ranging from that has the most support and with the least amount of extra support. It all begins with an Intake form that helps us determine where the child begins their MHG gymnastics journey.

1:1 Adaptive Gymnastics (personal instructor) (30, 45, 60min)
1:1 PC (Personal coach in a class of peers) (45 or 60min)
Adaptive Group Class: Big Gym Adaptive (60 min), Mini Gym Adaptive (45 min), or No Limits (60 min)
Inclusion Class (45 or 60 min)
Grade based neurotypical/physio-typical class participation (varies)

Next Steps

1. Fill out our Adaptive Intake Form (there is a quick link button that will bring you to this form)

2. Create a Mini Hops account on our website. You can do this on the main menu tab labeled “Login/Create Account”. We will be unable to move forward or schedule until this step is accomplished.

3.Fill out the Availability Form (there is a quick link button that will bring you to this form)

4. Wait for our Adaptive Director to reach out with recommendation and next steps.

Once all forms are complete and your iClass account is active, our adaptive team will review your information and contact you when a spot becomes available or when your athlete has been placed on the waitlist for a specific class.

Please note that spots are filled based on availability, athlete fit, and the date these steps are completed.

Adaptive Classes

1:1 Adaptive Gymnastics

This class is designed for the students that require the greatest amount of support in accomplishing their goals. With the collaboration of the parents and other professionals, our 1:1 instructor creates, implements and adjusts a plan to work at the child’s pace all while developing the students confidence and self-esteem with physically stimulating activities. This customized learning allows time for processing instructions, sensory needs, learning and developing skills that optimize success. 30, 45 or 60 minutes, Ratio 1:1

An intake form must be filled out before registering for class. (See quick links)

1:1 PC (Personal Coach in a class of peers)

This class is designed for children that need greater one on one attention in a group setting, but also works on everyday living and social skills in a class of peers. The PC (personal coach) assists the child in becoming familiar with the expectations of the class instructor, emotional regulation and navigating social interactions. The PC encourages the child to follow the class instructors’ directions and creates the connections that will encourage independence and a successful experience while learning how the body moves. 45 or 60 minutes, Ratio 1:1 in a class

An intake form must be filled out before registering for class. (See quick links)

Mini-Gym Adaptive Gymnastics (3 to 6 Year Olds)

This class is designed to give children with intellectual and physical disabilities a safe, fun and encouraging environment to learn about their bodies and how to move them. An experienced and caring instructor will lead the parents or para-educator and children through a variety of physical activities that will increase coordination, balance, strength, and flexibility. With experienced adults leading the way, children can safely explore their environment, practice following directions, navigate social interactions, and try new things to increase independence. Parent/Para participation is required, 45 minutes, Ratio 5:1

An intake form must be filled out before registering for class. (See quick links)

Big Gym Adaptive Gymnastics (Ages 6+)

Athletes with various special needs will gain independence in the main gym and learn from an experienced, caring coach. Students will practice the gymnastics-based activities that will lead to increased body-awareness, strength, flexibility, balance and increased self esteem. One objective of the program is to help kids transition into neuro-typical/physio-typical grade-appropriate gymnastics classes and/or the competitive Special Olympics program. Parent/Para participation may be initially required, 60 minutes, Ratio 5:1

An intake form must be filled out before registering for class. (See quick links)

Almost Me/Just Me (3 year olds) - Adaptive Inclusion

45 min (parent participation as needed)

An enthusiastic instructor helps to foster independence by offering fun, yet challenging activities. Parents are invited “as needed”, but our goal is to foster healthy independence as children grow. Students increase their self-confidence, body awareness, strength, and agility, in an exciting and safe gymnastics class that also includes music, rhyming and all things that kids love! We believe impacting kids of all abilities teaches valuable life lessons to all kids. We teach inclusivity, patience, and understanding in our inclusion classes.

This is an Adaptive Inclusive class which means that there may be a mixture of approved adaptive students and neurotypical students.

Jr Hopper Combo (5 year olds) - Adaptive Inclusion

This class is run by an experienced caring instructor, who will run an inclusive class for both neuro-typical students, and approved adaptive students. These students will be working on their independence to be in a class without a personal coach or parent/guardian. Our instructor will be trained to adapt this lower ratio class in a positive way to ensure success for all enrolled students. In this class, they will practice and develop many gymnastics skills such as rolling in all directions as well as beginner handstands, cartwheels and pullovers. These gymnastics classes enhance self-confidence, teach life lessons, and nurture character development while building healthy bodies and minds. You will witness your child’s self-esteem grow as they achieve new skills, both physical and social. We believe impacting kids of all abilities teaches valuable life lessons to all kids. We teach inclusivity, patience, and understanding in our inclusion classes. 60 minutes, Ratio 1:5 ($142/month)

This is an Adaptive Inclusive class which means that there may be a mixture of approved adaptive students and neuro-typical students.

An intake form must be filled out for adaptive students, before registering for class. (See quick links)

All Events - Adaptive Inclusion (Ages 6-7)

This co-ed class is run by an experienced caring instructor, who will run an inclusive class for both neuro-typical students, and approved adaptive students. These students will be working on their independence to be in a class without a personal coach or parent/guardian. Our instructor will be trained to adapt this lower ratio class in a positive way to ensure success for all enrolled students. In this class, each event is taught in its traditional form—rings as boys typically learn them and beam as girls do—regardless of the athlete’s gender. This inclusive approach ensures every child gains confidence, strength, and versatility across a variety of gymnastics disciplines. The combination of skill-building and interaction with neuro-typical peers aims to enhance their overall development and confidence in a positive and encouraging environment. 60 minutes, Ratio 1:5 ($142/month)

This is an Adaptive Inclusive class which means that there may be a mixture of approved adaptive students and neuro-typical students.

An intake form must be filled out for adaptive students, before registering for class. (See quick links)

Girls Progressive Inclusion Class (Ages 8+)

This class is run by an experienced caring instructor, who will run an inclusive class for both neuro-typical students, and approved adaptive students. Our instructor will be trained to adapt the class in a positive way to ensure success for all enrolled students. This class will follow a similar structure to our progressive gymnastics’ classes, with a focus on fostering independence and enhancing skills in a supportive, inclusive setting. With a lower ratio of participants to coach, we believe each participant will receive personalized attention and have the opportunity to thrive alongside peers who are equally motivated and dedicated. 60 minutes, Ratio 1:5 ($142/month)

This is an Adaptive Inclusive class which means that there may be a mixture of approved adaptive students and neuro-typical students.

An intake form must be filled out for adaptive students, before registering for class. (See quick links)

Tramp & Tumbling 2nd & 3rd Grade Inclusion Class

This co-ed class is run by an experienced caring instructor, who will run an inclusive class for both neuro-typical students, and approved adaptive students. These students will be working on their independence to be in a class without a personal coach or parent/guardian. Our instructor will be trained to adapt this lower ratio class in a positive way to ensure success for all enrolled students. Students will learn fundamental skills for the T&T events (Trampoline, Power Tumbling & Double-Mini Trampoline) on apparatus including trampoline, rod floor and double-mini trampoline as well as tumble tracks building greater overall strength and confidence for continued skill development. They will work on skills including: shape jumps, various drop landings, cartwheels, handstands, backward and forward rolls, connecting skills together, and more! The emphasis is on learning safe and proper technique, aerial awareness and confidence. Although flipping may be taught to gymnasts that are ready, it is not a point of emphasis. 60 minutes, Ratio 1:5 ($142/month)

This is an Adaptive Inclusive class which means that there may be a mixture of approved adaptive students and neuro-typical students.

An intake form must be filled out for adaptive students, before registering for class. (See quick links)

No Limits Fitness – Adult Group Fitness for Individuals of ALL ABILITIES

This class provides an opportunity to individuals 16 and older of all abilities to participate in a complete fitness class adapted to their abilities. We believe that every individual is able to unlock their potential through movement. Making fitness fun and creative brings out the child in us, all while using sport to teach the lesson of life. This physical fitness class is designed to create healthy habits that benefit the physical and mental health of those participating for a lifetime. We accomplish this through a guided group exercise program from the warm-up to skill and strength development, metabolic conditioning and finishing with a cool down. Inclusion of Direct support staff is required, 60 Minutes, Ratio 1:8

Please email [email protected] to learn more or get registered.

Additional-Approval Opportunities

Intermediate Adaptive Big Gym (Ages 6+) (Additional-approval REQUIRED)

*This is for Adaptive students only*
60 min

Our Intermediate Adaptive Big Gym class is currently for athlete’s focused on a greater emphasis on skill development, strength, conditioning, flexibility, independent training, understanding progressions and teamwork. This class is designed to give athlete’s a safe, fun, and encouraging environment to progress this skills and independence. An experienced and caring instructor will lead the athletes through a variety of physical activities that will increase coordination, balance, strength, and flexibility. We hope this class will encourage our athletes to develop a team training mentality that will shine within other classes/programs they participate in as leaders.

Approval needed by Adaptive Director before registering.

Big Gym Adaptive: Gross Motor (Additional-approval REQUIRED)

*This is for Adaptive students only*
60 min

Big Gym Adaptive: Gross Motor is a small-group class designed for select athletes who benefit from a slower-paced, supportive environment. This class focuses on developing the gross motor skills, balance, body awareness, and safe falling techniques necessary for progressing in the sport of gymnastics. Through individualized instruction, built-in rest, and a calmer, quieter setting, athletes are supported in moving confidently, safely, and successfully at their own pace- with an emphasis on building independence, self-confidence, and the ability to navigate the gym with increasing confidence over time.

Approval needed by Adaptive Director before registering.

Adaptive Inclusion Summer Camp (Additional-approval REQUIRED)

*This is for Adaptive students only*

Mini-Hops is proud to run an Adaptive Inclusive Summer camp program. Our camp will host 4 different half day sessions each week throughout the summer. Activities will include crafts, sensory play, social skills, emotional regulation, transitioning, and improved motor movement in a safe and inclusive environment.

Approval required by Adaptive Director [email protected]

**Mini-Hops will provide an adaptive coach to oversee how our adaptive inclusive camp is going. 1:1 personal coach support will NOT be available, campers will need to be able to participate independently or with a parent present.

SCHEDULE:

Tuesday 8:00am-12:30pm
Tuesday 12:30pm-4:00pm
Thursday 8:00am-12:30pm
Thursday 12:30pm-4:00pm

**Every week, all summer

**Full day camp available upon request, with approval from Director. There is no FULL day adaptive camp. This will register under the typical summer camp program.

SUPPORT AND REQUIREMENTS:

Must have an adaptive intake form completed and been ACTIVE in an adaptive class during the 2025-2026 school year.
Must be able to always stay with the class independently. (No 1:1 Personal Coach support available)
1:1 support available on an individual basis with outside support. Para/guardian participation required initially with the aim to fade support. (parent participation required in camp, if already required in class)

HUGS Competitive Team Program

HUGS Competitive Team Program

The MHG HUGS Competitive Team Program provides athletes with all classes of special needs (intellectual, physical, visual, etc) the opportunity to train and compete alongside typical gymnasts in an official USA Gymnastics setting. Athletes learn and perform the fundamental skills of gymnastics while being evaluated using technical gymnastics standards within a supportive and inclusive team environment.

Our trained coaches make appropriate adaptations to meet the unique needs of each athlete.

The MHG HUGS Program includes the following competitive disciplines:
• Artistic Gymnastics (Men & Women)
• Rhythmic Gymnastics (Women)
• Trampoline & Tumbling (Co-ed)
• Gymnastics for All (Co-ed)

For more information and tuition pricing, please contact:
Michaela Chelberg
[email protected]

Special Olympics Gymnastics Competitive Team (SOMN)

Special Olympics Gymnastics Competitive Team (SOMN)

The MHG Special Olympics Gymnastics Competitive Team provides athletes with intellectual disabilities the opportunity to train and compete through Special Olympics Minnesota in a structured and supportive gymnastics environment. Participation is open to individuals eight years of age and older who are registered with Special Olympics Minnesota. There is no maximum age limit for participation.

Female athletes may compete in Rhythmic Gymnastics, Artistic Gymnastics, or both, while male athletes compete in Artistic Gymnastics.

Our SOMN Team Program is designed for athletes who demonstrate dedication, a positive attitude, and a desire to learn and grow in the sport of gymnastics. Athletes train in a positive team environment where they build confidence, develop gymnastics skills, and form meaningful friendships with teammates and coaches.

The program is offered free of charge thanks to the support of MHG’s Polar Plunge fundraising efforts. It is coached and managed by a dedicated team of community volunteers who are committed to helping athletes reach their personal best while promoting teamwork, sportsmanship, and lifelong skills.

For more information about the SOMN Program, please contact:
Michaela Chelberg
[email protected]

Open Training

Mini Hops Gymnastics offers “Open Training” for athletes who have big gym experience and would like extra time to work on skills mostly independent, but can request assistance from the instructor, if needed. This is a 90-minute invite only training time to be used by the more serious athletes with specific objectives and skills to train. Open Training is only offered to skill-focused approved athletes in upper-level classes, adult classes and the following teams; Special Olympics, Xcel/DP, Boys, and Tramp & Tumbling team. Upon entering the gym, approved and registered, athletes should check-in with the instructor to review the rules and the apparatus available, as it varies from week to week. Athletes must be able to follow safety protocols set by coaches independently.

*Guardians are expected to observe and make sure their athlete is following expectations.

Approval required by Adaptive Director [email protected]

Adaptive Makeup Policies

If you are going to miss class for any reason, please let Mini Hops know by emailing or calling us. Due to the nature of Adaptive programming, there are different make-up policies for each class type.

1:1 – In the event of a coach’s absence, lessons may be made up or a credit will be given to your account– inquire with your instructor. In the event your child misses a class, you are allowed one makeup per month dependent on your coaches availability. Makeups are not guaranteed. Inquire with your instructor.

1:1 PC – In the event of a coach’s absence, lessons may be made up or a credit will be given to your account– inquire with your instructor. In the event your child misses a class, you are allowed one makeup per month dependent on your coaches availability. Makeups are not guaranteed. Inquire with your instructor.

Adaptive Big Gym – Lessons may be made up in an additional adaptive big gym class. One make-up per month. Please schedule with the front desk or Adaptive Director.

No Limits – Lessons may be made up in an additional No Limits class. One make-up per month. Please schedule with the front desk or Adaptive Director.

Adaptive Mini Gym – Lessons may be made up in an additional adaptive mini gym class, or in an Adaptive Inclusion class if given permission- inquire with Adaptive Director or your instructor. One make-up per month and makeups are not always guaranteed.

Adaptive Inclusion Class – Lessons may be made up in additional adaptive inclusion class on another day, or in a neurotypical class with a strong instructor- inquire with Adaptive Director or your instructor for best options. One make-up per month.