Dina Kimmel

Although Dina Kimmel studied Business Marketing at California State University Northridge, it is her mother’s intuition combined with her entrepreneurial spirit that led to the creation of We Rock The Spectrum Kid’s Gym. After her second child Gabriel was diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder, Dina began to research ways to facilitate her son’s development. Dina found that along with early intervention and targeted consistent treatment, many children were making significant improvements. Dina hired Speech Therapists, Child Behaviorists and Occupational Therapists, but found that the limited hours they could provide was simply not enough. This led her to create a sensory gym in her own home. Gabriel thrived and at the same time her older daughter Sophia enjoyed playing on the equipment as well. In fact, this was an activity that both children could do together. This provided the family joy and relief at the same time. “One of the biggest challenges when you have a child with any disability is that often all of your focus lands on them and the other siblings feel neglected or deprived”. The fact that both of her children were being entertained at the same time was a fantastic outcome. Dina had an “a ha” moment when she realized that many people did not have the means or space to put a gym in their own homes. She thought “why not provide this type of gym in a retail space for the community to enjoy”. This was the beginning of We Rock the Spectrum Kid’s Gym, “Finally a place where you never have to say I’m sorry”.

Tim Kimmel – world’s best husband and Dad
Sophia Kimmel – their daughter
Gabriel Kimmel – their son

The first gym opened in August 2009 and due to the demand it has become a nationwide franchise. Dina’s concept was one of improving the children’s gym format and making it inclusive for all children. For years, she would take Gabriel to other gyms or open playtimes and found herself constantly apologizing for his behavior. His diagnosis made it difficult to handle the commotion and loud noises. Eventually, he would cry, she would cry, and they would end up leaving both feeling frustrated. She wanted to create a safe environment where all who walked through the doors would feel comfortable. Through her gyms, countless children have had the opportunity to enjoy a space with their friends and family.

Dina has taken her vision across the country setting up franchises and offering training and support along the way. Dina resides in Los Angeles with her husband and two children. Dina has been featured on NBC and CBS news, Tribe Magazine, La Parent, and Autism Live. In 2014 We Rock the Spectrum Kid’s Gym was honored to have been chosen, as the Grand Club Sponsor for Autism Speaks Walk LA.