Meet Dina Kimmel Founder and CEO of We Rock the Spectrum Kids Gym

I first heard about We Rock the Spectrum a couple of years ago when we were invited to a birthday party that was held at their facility. I had been to kids gyms before but this one stood out for its commitment to providing a nurturing & fun environment that fosters learning & safe sensory experiences for all children.

When I heard Dina’s backstory on how she developed We Rock the Spectrum (WRTS), I thought it was amazing & I just knew that others would be inspired by it as well.

Please meet the latest Real Mom of the SFV, Dina Kimmel!

How/why did you begin your business?
Dina: I began We Rock the Spectrum Kids Gym over 5 years ago in our home. My son was diagnosed with Autism at 2 years old and his sensory needs were daily. Per suggestion from his O.T., she recommended I put some swings up in our home for Gabriel. Well I don’t do anything small, especially if it comes to the well-being of my family. I moved all my bedroom furniture out and built a sensory gym. The results were amazing! My son was sleeping and eating better and most importantly he began to socialize with his sister and her friends! We were witnessing true magic.

As a working mother, what is one tip or piece of advice that you would give to other female entrepreneurs?
Dina: Always remember when beginning a business that family comes first. This is why I then chose to open a WRTS in my hometown, Tarzana. I needed a career that would allow me to bring my children to work every day with me. This is when it dawned on me to open a WRTS, as it catered to ALL children and my son with Autism and my daughter “typically” developing could both feel like they had equal importance in my life and the world. Now I am not only a working mother for my family but I have become the working mother example for the nation!

What do you like best about having a business in the San Fernando Valley?
Dina: I love having a business in the San Fernando Valley because the community is so close. We have so many resources here that I never knew about. I love now that I have been given the opportunity to help educate other families in need about the amazing opportunities in our valley.

If there was one thing you wish you knew before you began your business, what would that be?
Dina: To be honest with you I have worked with the public for over 20 years. Nothing was a surprise to me in a negative way when I began We Rock, it was all positive. I knew it wouldn’t be easy dealing with all of the different personalities of all the families coming into our gym but being a special needs parent my only regret was I wish I started my business sooner.

Isn’t it amazing how a mother’s love for her son inspired her to not only open up a place that benefits her family but countless families all over! With franchise locations not only in California but even ones in Florida & Arizona as well, Dina has developed a business that resonates across the U.S.

Check out the WRTS website for more info & don’t forget to “like” their Facebook page so that you can get the latest updates!

Disclosure: No monetary compensation was received for this post. The image shown in this post is used with permission. As always, my opinions are 100% my own.