Owner and occupational therapist Guiselle Miranda opened Crossing Midline Kids Gym in September on North Eldridge Parkway in Tomball. The sensory gym features playgroups designed for children to receive occupational therapy, Miranda said.

“Lately with the many changes that are going on with health care, lots of kids are being [denied] therapy,” Miranda said. “I thought of an idea of starting a facility where they can get therapy, even if it’s in a group.”

Miranda said children with a sensory processing disorder have difficulty processing their environment. Children take in their environments differently through their five senses, she said.

“Some children are very sensory seeking,” Miranda said. “Some [children] seek a more calming environment to help their bodies calm [and] regulate.”

The gym welcomes children of all ages and abilities, including infants, Miranda said. It features a rock wall, swings, an infant section, a ball pit, a small trampoline and other toys for children to engage in different types of play.

Miranda said the business offers 10 developmental playgroups focusing on strengthening children’s gross and fine motor skills—large and small movements—while also encouraging social interaction. The gym also offers independent playtime, one-on-one play with an occupational therapist and birthday parties.

“There are other sensory facilities [in the region] that are open for play,” Miranda said. “What makes me different is that as an occupational therapist, we are providing groups that help children meet their goals.”

In addition to groups for children, Miranda hosts support groups for parents.

“We had the parents sitting together [who said], ‘This is so awesome, I’ve never had a parent that I can talk to and that understands me,’” she said.

Miranda said she decided to pursue occupational therapy when she was in college.

“I just loved how through play you were helping kids to reach their goals,” she said. “Through means that you wouldn’t think of, you’re helping children function in everyday life.”

Crossing Midline Kids Gym
16143 N. Eldridge Parkway, Tomball
346-213-6459
www.crossingmidlinekidsgym.com
Hours: Tue.-Thu. 11 a.m.-6:40 p.m., Fri. 11 a.m.-7 p.m., Sat. 10 a.m.-4 p.m., closed Sundays and Mondays