I was a gymnast when I was younger, so last year when my then 5yo DD who had taken dance for 2 years told me she wanted to be a gymnast, it was bittersweet.
I was excited for her to learn to love the sport I love, but I know the level of commitment required of mind, body, soul, pocket book, and time that it takes if one continues to pursue the sport. I told myself as long as she was having fun and remaining healthy she could do anything she wanted. She began rec classes last June and was assessed last month and qualified for level 4. The ride has just begun!
My first job ever was teaching the 2.5-5 year old rec classes when I was a teenager, and then assistant coaching the Class 4 and 5 teams (this was in the late 80's- when all gymnasts had to do compulsory routines.) I try to keep my nose out of how she is being coached- they are a very competent "skills & drills" group of coaches, but I do offer her many at home conditioning options.