About Stretch and Shine

Stretch and Shine Pilates is a fun and supportive movement programme designed specifically for children and teens. Created and led by Roberta Bass, a qualified Pilates instructor and physiotherapist, these classes blend movement, imagination, and skill-building to help young people move confidently and feel great in their bodies.

Stretch and Shine is part of Thrive and Shine Women’s Wellness Ltd, based in Winscombe, North Somerset.

About Roberta

Roberta is a HCPC-registered physiotherapist and Pilates instructor with a passion for helping people build confidence through movement. With years of experience supporting women’s health and fitness, she brings the same whole-person, supportive approach to younger age groups.

She’s also a mum and an advocate for playful, empowering physical activity for children of all abilities.

Why Pilates for Kids?

Stretch and Shine classes are tailored to different age groups and stages of development, offering a wide range of physical, mental, and emotional benefits:

Improved core strength, balance, and flexibility, which support better posture and body control
Greater body awareness and postural alignment, helping reduce strain and support healthy development
Enhanced coordination, motor skills, and confidence in physical abilities
A calm, welcoming space to move, explore, and learn in a pressure-free environment
Classes are playful, age-appropriate, and led with safety, inclusivity, and child development in mind. Classes also help children develop focus, resilience, and a positive relationship with physical activity. Pilates can also support mindfulness and relaxation, helping to reduce stress and promote emotional regulation—beneficial for children who may experience anxiety or need help with focus and calm.

Our Approach

Each class is built around positive movement experiences. For the younger groups, this might involve games and stories. For older children and teens, the structure gently introduces Pilates foundations, progressing in challenge while keeping things fun and accessible.

We believe that helping children feel strong, capable, and confident in their bodies can have lasting benefits well beyond the mat.