What are the Development Program levels, and how old does my child need to be?
Rule- USA
- USA Gymnastics
- Women's Development Program
- Levels 1-10
- Ages 4+
- Safety & Response Policy
- 2026-27 Rules & Policies
- 2026-27 season
- Parents
The Women's Development Program (formerly Junior Olympic or "JO") has three stages:
| Stage | Levels | What it is |
|---|---|---|
| Developmental | 1-3 | Can be a non-competitive, achievement-based program (often pre-team), or an introductory recreational competition. Some states run Level 1-3 meets and State Championships |
| Compulsory | 4-5 | Set routines, building on the previous level, competing up to State Championships |
| Optional | 6-10 | Individual routines. Levels 6-9 have skill restrictions; Level 10 has none |
Minimum ages (she must have reached this birthday before competing in any sanctioned meet at that level):
| Level | Minimum age |
|---|---|
| 1 | 4 |
| 2 | 5 |
| 3 | 6 |
| 4-7 | 7 |
| 8-9 | 8 |
| 10 | 9 |
Added 21 Oct 2026