GymbaROO was created by Margaret Sasse in 1983 to address the neuro-physiological developmental needs of 0-5 year olds that directly affect future reading and learning skills. The programs Margaret developed were based on research of the leading childhood development experts of the time, with a specific focus on the relationship between physiological activities and their impact on the developing pathways of the brain that impact upon reading and learning capabilities. Her daughter Dr Jane Williams ran a GymbaROO in Townsville for a number of years, then went back to University to complete a Ph. D in our area of expertise. This Ph.D was assessed by International experts in both the field of study and the methodology, and she was recommended for a Cum Laudae by one of the examiners. The Ph.D. so impressed one of the examiners that she paid close attention to GymbaROO and its underlying programs, and the work of Margaret. This examiner, Professor Frances Page Glascoe is a worldwide authority on parenting and early childhood development, and is Co-editor American Academy of Pediatrics: Development and Behavior Newsletter. She also Mentors the Royal Children’s Hospital (Vic) Community Child Health Program, and is a leading advisor for many similar programs around the world. In her forward in Margarets new book "Smart Start" Professor Glascoe described Margaret as "a leading international authority on the value (and enormous fun) of movement in children's lives; and in parent's lives too".
Prof Glascoe was so impressed that she has come on board the Gymbaroo team as our Patron for research and support– pro-bono. Margaret and Jane lead the intellectual development of the franchisees and teachers. They and (some of our) franchisees regularily attend and contribute to international conferences on early childhood development. They and our leading franchisees ensure that our programs, in-house professional development courses, and reference material for franchisees are kept up to date with the latest research and knowledge. They are also involved in leading research programs.
We expect our franchisees and teachers to aspire to become the local experts in our field and we have in place an ongoing professional development and educational program to support skill and knowledge development. Early childhood development is a life time commitment for our teams.
Director : Margaret Sasse
General Manager : Research and program development :
Dr Jane Williams
General Manager : Operations and Marketing : Robert Sasse
Patron : Professor Frances Page Glascoe
Leading GymbaROO Teacher Trainers/ Consultants: Marianne Schriever
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