Tumbling Classes for Kids in Newport, NC | Crystal Coast Gymnastics

Preschool Education through play

Tumbling Classes for Kids in Newport, NC | Crystal Coast Gymnastics

Now Enrolling for Fall 2025!

Welcome to Leap and Learn Preschool—an energetic, hands-on learning adventure for three-year-olds, Monday through Friday from 8:00 am to 12:00 pm!

Rooted in our dynamic gymnastics setting and grounded in active learning, this program invites little ones to explore, discover, and grow—completely barefoot—for a truly natural, sensory-rich experience.

Julie Walker

Julie Walker

Lead Preschool Teacher

When we decided to launch a half day preschool at Crystal Coast Gymnastics, Julie was the logical choice for our Lead Teacher.  Her professional career has spanned over a decade of working in Early Childhood and Family Literacy programs.  Her most recent position was a Family Literacy Preschool Caregiver in Craven County Schools.  
 
Julie joined Crystal Coast Gymnastics in 2024 when she expressed an interest in coaching.  Her previous coaching experience was in Soccer and Softball and teaching gymnastics came naturally to her.  She quickly became a valuable member of our staff as a part-time instructor and we are so excited to have her on board full time!
 
Julie holds the following certifications:  CPR, SIDS, Health Emergencies, Sanitation, and Early Behavior Science.  She is a big believer in learning through doing, reading aloud to kids, using arts and crafts to engage kids, using music for learning, and keeping kids physically active.  Julie is background checked through  the National Center for Safety Initiatives. 
 
Julie is originally from Northwestern Pennsylvania and has lived in various locations across the country as she followed her husband, Terry, through his career as a Marine.  Terry has retired and they have settled in Eastern North Carolina.  She has three children of her own who are all student athletes!  Her daughter is one of our team gymnasts and her son is a favorite Ninja Zone instructor.  

What Makes Leap and Learn Special?

At our program, active learning happens every day, with at least one full hour dedicated to physical activity. We seamlessly blend learning into movement—whether it’s counting while balancing, acting out imagination stories on the beam, or playing ABC hopping games. Children enjoy barefoot fun and sensory freedom, which helps their little feet develop strength, coordination, and awareness—perfect for exploring our tumbling mats, balance beams, and open spaces.

We foster creative exploration through music, art, and imaginative play. Joyful songs, rhythmic games, movement, and artistic activities like finger painting and collage projects fill our days. To support early literacy and reading readiness, we include daily circle-time stories and interactive rhymes that build pre-reading skills in a fun and engaging way.

Our learning environment supports holistic development in a dynamic gym setting. Each block of the day is thoughtfully crafted to nurture the whole child:

  • Physical and motor skills are built through gymnastics and movement games.

  • Cognitive and language development is encouraged with puzzles, storytelling, rhyming, and sorting activities.

  • Creative expression flourishes with music, dance, and hands-on art.

  • Social-emotional learning is woven throughout, as children practice sharing, taking turns, and forming friendships.

Preschool enrollment in Newport, NC

creative Play through movement

 

 Through hands-on activities like art, music, and imaginative play, children explore self-expression and creativity. These experiences build cognitive flexibility and foster a love for learning.

 

Early Literacy & Math Foundations

 

Children are introduced to letters, numbers, shapes, and sounds through fun, age-appropriate activities. This foundational learning builds confidence and prepares them for future academic success.

Physical Activity & Motor Skills

 

Daily movement and gymnastics-inspired play help develop balance, coordination, and strength. Our safe, structured environment supports both fine and gross motor skill growth.

 

Social & Emotional Development

 

Through group activities and guided interactions, children learn to share, communicate, and manage emotions. These early social skills are key to building confidence and healthy relationships.

 

 

 

 

 

Join us at Leap and Learn Today

For a joyful, active, and creative preschool experience—where little feet, big dreams, and boundless curiosity come together in a playful and nurturing environment. Let’s tumble into learning!

Daily Schedule (Sample)

Time Activity
8:00–8:30 Welcome, free play & sensory exploration
8:30–9:30 Active learning (structured motor play + new concept)
9:30–10:00 Morning snack & social time
10:00–10:45 Music & movement / arts & crafts
10:45–11:15 Reading readiness & circle time
11:15–11:45 Gym games & motor-skill stations
11:45–12:00 Clean up, reflection, song & goodbye

Contact us at 252-222-4961
to learn about our NinjaZone programs today!

Tumbling Classes for Kids in Newport, NC | Crystal Coast Gymnastics