Ask the Expert: Michelle Micheletti on Kids Clubs

This month we sat down with Michelle Micheletti, the director of marketing for Club Fitness, to discuss tips for designing an engaging kids club. 

Club Fitness recently redesigned its kids club offerings — what sparked the change?

MM: Club Fitness knows how difficult it can be for parents to squeeze in exercise or training with all their other responsibilities. To help overcome this obstacle, every Club Fitness provides a safe and nurturing environment for children through a kids club at no cost to its members. We saw an opportunity to make a difference in the kids’ lives while their parents enjoy a little “me” time. We are continually looking for ways to improve our experience. Our members are part of our family, and we want the very best for their children.

Why did you decide to work with the Brain Balance Achievement Centers for the redesign?

MM: Club Fitness has partnered with an amazing organization that helps develop cognitive abilities in kids, and we have chosen specific activities that will assist in doing just that. Brain Balance fully understands the left and right sides of the brain develop differently. They are the expert in this field, and we needed their expertise to develop an even more engaging, educational and interactive kids club experience.

What are the highlights of the redesign?

MM: We have increased stations and equipment in our kids club to keep our kids mentally engaged. You will find a movement “Move It” station with a mini trampoline and a tunnel to crawl through; an imagination “Dream It” station with dress-up clothes and Legos; a gaming “Play It” station with Connect Four and Air Hockey, and much more. This means the kids will have a ton of fun and learn while they are in our kids club.

Why is it important to engage children in movement versus just offering a babysitting service?

MM: We want to provide enriching play with stimulating activities that help with brain development, opposed to just setting them in front of a TV screen or video game.

What is the importance of having great staff in a kids club offering?

MM: Staff members are everything. They provide the positive, encouraging environment for kids to be able to explore and play, as well as ensure their safety. Brain Balance comes into each of our kids club locations to train our staff and provide them an overview of how a child’s brain develops, which helps our staff understand the “why” behind the activities.