CLOVIS, Calif. (FOX26) — An all-inclusive indoor gym called “We Rock the Spectrum Kid’s Gym” held its grand opening on Saturday, June 27, offering play spaces designed for both neurotypical and neurodivergent children.
Parent Donald Wines, who has a child with Attention Deficit Disorder, said it can be difficult to find places where his family feels they fit in.
“This (gym) has been very special for all of us, especially the adults,” Wines said.
Wines said misunderstandings about children’s behavior can make public outings challenging.
“People who don’t understand our children sometimes have triggers that, you know, it looks like a meltdown, but it’s not a meltdown. They don’t understand their own emotions,” Wines said. “It’s hard to watch your child go through that and not have a safe space.”
The gym includes a variety of play sets intended to meet specific sensory needs and provide supervision that may not be available at other parks.
Owner Christopher Reyes said he decided to bring the concept to Clovis after taking his autistic children to similar gyms in Los Angeles before moving.
“Parents are telling me they would have difficulties in other places and when they come here, it’s like they feel ease. They’re at ease. They feel happy and they’re able to be themselves,” Reyes said. That always chokes me up.”
The grand opening included activities such as a train outside, face painting, characters and superheroes.
The gym is open to anyone under 18.
The gym offers daily pricing and membership options. Families with children who are members of the Central Valley Regional Center can receive funding that allows them to play for free at the gym.
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