CareCompass
At a Glance
Trust Score
Based on comprehensive analysis of reviews, safety records, and operations.
About Crenshaw Athletic Club
Crenshaw Athletic Club and Palaestra
Operating for over 70 years, Crenshaw Athletic Club offers a unique 'Palaestra' preschool program designed to nurture the whole child. Located in North Austin, the massive 26,000 square foot facility features academic classrooms alongside a 12,000 square foot gymnasium and an indoor heated pool. The program uses a rotating schedule to keep students engaged, alternating between traditional classroom learning and physical activity led by specialized instructors. As a family-owned institution, the club emphasizes community and long-term development. Beyond the preschool years, the facility provides comprehensive after-school care and summer camps. The environment is described by local parents as a slice of 'Old Austin,' focusing on discipline, athleticism, and social growth without the sensory overload of modern franchise centers. With dedicated spaces for tumbling, trampoline, and stroke-specific swimming instruction, it remains a premier destination for active early childhood...
What Parents Say
5 reviews from parents
The best gymnastics ever! Great coaches great staff great vibes! I love this place!
This is the highlight of our week!!! We do the toddler class with coach AJ and it is fantastic!! It’s teaching my 2 year old discipline and athleticism in such a fun, kind way. I also love how this is a real gymnastics gym, so it doesn’t feel all kid-like with obnoxious colors and music. A slice of “old austin” in the best way possible. Could not recommend more 10/10.
My childs tramp coach was only paying attention to two girls! Which lead my child to just do the same tricks over and over again. Although her floor coach was amazing.
We are thrilled with our experience at this gymnastics center! Our son, who started at just 18 months, has been attending for over a year—and the transformation has been nothing short of amazing. His coach, AJ, stands out as the most kind, professional and caring coach we’ve ever met. Noticing some challenges in his behavior development, AJ took the time to work with him and help him overcome those hurdles patiently. Thanks to AJ’s nurturing guidance, our little one has become more confident and now eagerly looks forward to every session. He’s not only improving his athletic skills inside the gym but also applying the discipline, body awareness, and safety practices he learns to other aspects of his life. We truly believe that having such a talented and caring coach makes all the difference in a child’s development. We are excited for our son to continue learning from AJ and improve even more every day. We couldn’t be more grateful for the positive impact AJ has had on our son, and we highly recommend this gym to anyone looking for the best in both coaching and care!
All three of my kids have done at least some amount of pre-K in their Palaestra program. This program, along with after school gymnastics and swimming programs, has helped with their confidence, core strength, and overall education. Highly recommend especially if you will be attending Highland Park or other nearby elementary schools.
Web Report
Aggregated insights from public records & parent discussions
Safety Record
No safety concerns found. The facility is a licensed child care center (ID: 526636) and maintains an A+ rating with the Better Business Bureau. No news reports of incidents, safety violations, or recent legal issues were identified during research.
Parent Reputation
The club has a long-standing positive reputation in Austin, with parents frequently highlighting the quality of its gymnastics and swimming programs. Reviews often mention a structured environment, experienced staff, and a welcoming culture. Themes include high parental satisfaction with skill development and child engagement.
Staff Insights
While direct employee reviews from platforms like Glassdoor were unavailable, parental reviews consistently note low staff turnover and a high level of instructor experience. Staff members are described by parents as friendly, caring, and actively engaged with the children.
Quick Information
Varies by age and schedule
