Gymboree, now called Gymboree Play & Music is a place for children and their parents to exercise and learn.

There are over 300 franchises across the United States and internationally.

There are several in Massachusetts, including shops in Quincy, Newton, and Burlington.

But, oddly, not in Boston.

Yet.

From the Gymboree Play & Music website:

It all began in 1976 with an idea: stretch a child’s rapidly developing mind and body and you begin to prepare him or her for life. At Gymboree, we understand the relationships and experiences children have in the first three years of life have a profound impact on their future. In fact, the brain is most active in the first three years, in which time it will grow to 80 percent of its adult size. It’s essential for parents and caregivers to nurture a child’s development during this time. The Gymboree Learning Program is a critical component to supporting this development.

Today, the Gymboree Learning Program is stronger than ever. While our program continues to evolve to meet the changing needs of families, we will always maintain our core belief that playing and learning are inextricably linked. With the involvement of parents and caregivers, we want to give you new ways to encourage your child to problem-solve, think creatively, gain self-esteem and grow to be an independent learner. We also give you tools to support your child at each stage of development so you can help your child learn how to learn. After all, you are your child’s most important teacher and Gymboree is committed to helping you become the very best parent you can be.