Let me introduce you to the best thing that’s happened to my energetic, fearless (except when she’s not) three-year-old, River: The Sidekicks class at USA Ninja Challenge Camp Hill.
If you’ve ever watched American Ninja Warrior and thought, “Wow, that looks intense,” but then immediately turned your head to see your toddler scaling the back of your couch like a professional stunt double, this class is for you.
💥 What is Sidekicks?
It’s a parent-and-me ninja class for kids 2.5 to 3 years old where your little whirlwind of chaos learns agility, balance, and confidence—all while safely navigating obstacle courses designed just for them. Think: mini warped walls, tunnels, balance beams, and yes, the ever-terrifying (but thrilling) monkey bars.
The best part? You, their trusted sidekick (a.k.a. human jungle gym, emotional support system, and occasional crash pad), get to join in on the fun.
🚨 Disclaimer: This was a hosted visit, meaning we got to try the first class for free in exchange for our honest review. But let’s be real—I’m under zero obligation to keep going, and yet, here I am, happily handing over my credit card because we loved it THAT much. So, if you see me attempting ninja moves, mind your business. 😆
Our First Class: Nerves, Giggles, and the Monkey Bar Standoff
When we first walked into USA Ninja Challenge, River was hyped. She took one look at the gym, eyes wide like she’d just discovered a magical kingdom built entirely for climbing, jumping, and swinging. But then... she spotted the monkey bars.
Her enthusiasm stopped cold.
"No, thank you." Immediate toddler veto.
And look, I could have tried to convince her, but forcing a three-year-old to do something they don’t want to do is like negotiating with a very tiny, very stubborn lawyer who already knows they run this household.
Especially this child who very much takes after her attorney father.
- “Your honor, the evidence clearly states that my client never agreed to a nap.”
- “If I may direct the court’s attention to Exhibit A: The Snack Contract of 2024, which entitles me to unlimited Goldfish crackers.”
- “Furthermore, your honor, we’d like to introduce a motion to delay bedtime indefinitely.”
And honestly? I would do not win a single case.
So instead, I followed her lead. We focused on the obstacle course, where she climbed, jumped, and had the absolute best time. The coaches were incredible—offering gentle encouragement, celebrating tiny victories, and never pushing too hard.
But the monkey bars? Still a hard pass.
The entire ride home, though, she kept saying, "I try again next time."
Week Two: The Monkey Bars Redemption Arc
Fast forward to week two. River marched into class like she owned the place. She was ready. The obstacle course? A breeze. The balance beam? Child’s play. And then...
She walked up to the monkey bars.
I held my breath. The coach gave her an encouraging smile and said, “You’ve got this, River.” She took a deep breath, reached up... and went for it.
Now, did she suddenly transform into an Olympic gymnast? No. But she held on, swung for a second, and beamed with pride. And that? That was everything.
The way she lit up with confidence, the way the coaches cheered for her small-but-mighty victory, the way I totally didn’t cry but okay maybe a little—it was one of those parenting moments you hold onto forever.
Why We Signed Up Immediately
The class was that good. It’s active, engaging, and positive—a place where kids learn bravery at their own pace with zero pressure and all the encouragement.
🌟 What Makes Sidekicks Awesome:
✔️ Kid-led confidence building – Coaches encourage but never push.
✔️ Parent involvement – It’s quality time and a sneaky little workout for you, too.
✔️ Obstacle course fun – It’s like a playground on steroids, but safe.
✔️ Social skills & teamwork – Learning to take turns and cheer for each other!
River loved it, and I loved watching her grow in confidence (and also the built-in nap that followed every class, let’s be honest).
So, if you’ve got a toddler who climbs everything in sight or just needs a confidence boost in a super fun and safe environment, run (or ninja flip) to USA Ninja Challenge Camp Hill.
💬 Has your little one ever conquered a big fear? Drop a comment—I want to hear all the tiny triumphs! 💙🏅
#ToddlerNinja #ParentingWin #TinyButMighty #MacKidHarrisburg #USA_Ninja_Challenge #FutureLitigator
When visiting events and local businesses, be sure to tell them Macaroni KID sent you... and don't forget to tell all your friends!
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