Frequently Asked Questions

About Gym Childcare

What exactly is gym childcare?

Gym childcare services are supervised areas within fitness centers where parents can leave their children while they exercise. These spaces are typically staffed by trained childcare professionals and offer age-appropriate activities, toys, and sometimes structured programs for children.

What ages do gym childcare services typically accept?

Most gyms accept children from 6 months to 12 years old, though age ranges vary by facility. Some gyms have specific areas for different age groups, separating infants and toddlers from older children.

How much does gym childcare typically cost?

Childcare costs vary widely between gyms. Some include childcare in regular membership fees, while others charge separately. Common pricing models include:

• Included in membership (most common with premium gyms)
• Monthly childcare add-on packages ($25-$60/month)
• Pay-per-visit fees ($5-$15 per session)
• Punch cards or bulk session packages

Is there a time limit for gym childcare?

Yes, most gyms limit childcare sessions to 1.5-2 hours per visit. This ensures children don’t become too restless and allows the facility to accommodate more families throughout the day.

What activities are available for kids during childcare?

Activities vary by facility but typically include:

• Free play with toys, blocks, and games
• Arts and crafts
• Reading areas with books
• Puzzles and educational activities
• Sometimes structured activities like storytime
• Some premium facilities offer mini-classes, tumbling areas, or even swimming lessons

Are the childcare staff trained and qualified?

Reputable gyms require childcare staff to have:

• Background checks
• CPR and first aid certification
• Previous childcare experience
• Some facilities require additional certifications in early childhood education

Always ask about staff qualifications when considering a gym.

Will they feed my child or change diapers?

Policies vary significantly between facilities:

• Most gym childcare services do not provide meals but may allow children to bring their own snacks
• Some will change diapers, while others will call parents out of their workout for diaper changes
• Always check specific policies before joining

What if my child cries or gets upset?

Most facilities have a protocol for upset children:

• Staff will attempt to comfort and redirect the child
• If the child remains upset for a specified period (often 10-15 minutes)
• Parents will be notified via the gym’s communication system (loudspeaker, text, or staff retrieval)

About Our Directory

How current is the information in your directory?

We update our directory information quarterly through direct verification with gyms. Additionally, we make immediate updates when:

• Gyms contact us with changes
• Users report outdated information
• We conduct spot-checks throughout the year

How do you verify the gyms in your directory?

Our verification process includes:

• Direct contact with gym management
• Cross-referencing information with official gym websites
• User feedback and reports
• When possible, on-site visits by our team

Is this service available internationally?

Currently, our directory focuses on gyms within the United States. We plan to expand to international locations in the future.

Do you list all gyms or only certain chains?

We list all types of fitness facilities that offer childcare, including:

• National gym chains
• Local independent gyms
• Community recreation centers
• Specialty fitness studios with childcare
• YMCA/YWCA facilities

How do I report incorrect information?

You can report outdated or incorrect information through our contact form. Please provide as much detail as possible, including:

• The gym name and location
• The specific information that needs correction
• The correct information, if known
• Any supporting documentation (websites, photos, etc.)

For Parents

How do I find gyms with childcare in my area?

You can find local gyms with childcare by:

1. Browsing our directory by city
2. Using the filters to narrow results by specific features
3. Comparing childcare hours, age restrictions, and pricing

What should I look for when choosing a gym with childcare?

Key factors to consider include:

• Childcare hours (do they align with your workout schedule?)
• Age restrictions (does your child meet the requirements?)
• Staff-to-child ratio (lower ratios mean more attention per child)
• Cleanliness and safety of the facility
• Activities available for your child’s age group
• Pricing structure (included or additional fee?)
• Reviews from other parents

What should I bring to gym childcare?

Typically, you should bring:

• Comfort items (small toy or blanket)
• Diapers and wipes if your child is not potty-trained
• A change of clothes for younger children
• Labeled water bottle
• Snacks (if permitted by the facility)

How can I help my child adjust to gym childcare?

Strategies to help your child adapt include:

• Start with short sessions (30 minutes) and gradually increase
• Visit during less busy times for the first few sessions
• Establish a consistent goodbye routine
• Speak positively about the experience before and after
• Ask the childcare staff about your child’s activities to discuss later

Can I check on my child during my workout?

Most facilities allow parents to check on their children, but policies vary:

• Some gyms have observation windows or areas
• Others allow parents to pop in briefly
• Some facilities have video monitoring systems that allow you to check from the workout floor
• Ask about specific policies before joining

For Gym Owners

How can I list my gym in your directory?

To list your gym, simply contact us with information about your facility and childcare services. The basic listing is free, and we offer premium listing options for enhanced visibility.

Is there a cost to be listed?

Basic listings in our directory are free. We offer premium listing options with enhanced features for a modest monthly fee.

How often will I need to update my information?

We recommend reviewing your listing quarterly. You can update your information at any time by contacting us through our update form.

Can I respond to reviews about my gym?

Yes, verified gym owners can respond to reviews through our platform, allowing you to address feedback professionally.

Still Have Questions?

If you can’t find the answer to your question here, please contact us and we’ll be happy to help.