TWINSBURG, Ohio -- Play programs for infants and toddlers are not only fun for the children, but great opportunities for them to learn and develop, reported NewsChannel5's Tonya Strong.

There is a well-documented theory that the way children learn at a young age can greatly influence their academic capabilities at school age.

Lisa Gaines, the owner of Gymboree Play and Music in Twinsburg, hopes that her program is benefiting the children in this way.

"A child's brain develops 90 percent of its growth before he's 3 years old," said Gaines.

She bought the franchise after first experiencing these benefits as a mother.

"By doing play programs, we're doing auditory as well as visual stimulation -- we're doing things here at Gymboree, helping their language develop and get it all in while their brain is just like a sponge," said Gaines.

The moms and caregivers at Gymboree say the social interaction is also good for their babies.

"Every moment is a learning moment and chance for them just to grow and expand," said mom Carol Fuscella.

While most parents who are interested in classes like this sign up their kids around the age of 6 months, there are Gymboree classes for newborns, and plenty of programs for those active toddlers, right up through the age of 5.

"It's never too soon ... we've starting reading, singing, playing from day one, and I've seen tremendous growth in Durias's development," said mom Kim Sethna.

If you would like more information about Gymboree programs, call the Twinsburg Gymboree at (330) 487-0820, or go to www.gymboree.com.