How to find dance classes for toddlers

Dancing is one of mankind's oldest forms of expression. Ballet, jazz, tap and even the most basic untutored steps allow people to joyously communicate who they are through movement. Dance classes help people learn to channel energy into a formal system of expression. Even young children can happily discover the world of dance. Dance classes for toddlers are an excellent way to help children explore their own innate love of music and creative dance.

Instructions

    • 1

      Research area ballet schools. Children begin studying ballet very early in life. Early study helps children master the basic fundamental movements of classical ballet and develop the right muscles. Many schools that do not accept ballet students until the age of five provide beginning dance classes for toddlers. Look for schools affiliated with ballet companies.

    • 2

      Investigate gyms. A freestanding gym often offers exercise classes and dance classes. If you sign up for membership, you can get access to any available classes. Some gyms, such as the YMCA, specialize in providing services to families and children. A class may involve toddlers moving on their own or invite parental participation as children explore movement.

    • 3

      Speak with a program director. The director should be able to answer your questions. Find out how many students are typically enrolled in each class as well as how long classes take. Toddlers classes are normally less than an hour as they do not have the attention span to engage in activities for longer than just a short period of time. Dance classes for toddlers should emphasize helping children get familiar with the idea of dance and the world of music.

    • 4

      Contact area preschools. Some preschools have open enrollment classes. Even if your child does not attend the preschool, she can still sign up for specific programs. A preschool may offer formal lessons given over a period of time. Investigate the qualifications of the teachers. Preschool teachers are required under state licensing laws to have a certain number of college credits in early childhood education. Some schools have specialists on staff who have additional training in kinesthesiology.

    • 5

      Research programs for children with special needs. If your child has a medical disability, formal classes and physical therapy may be recommended as a way of improving coordination and muscle tone. A physical therapy specialist may also conduct dance classes for toddlers on the same site as other therapies. Classes for disabled toddlers are also held in traditional dance class settings. Attending classes will help your child interact with others with similar disabilities. Some programs are open to all toddlers even those without disabilities.

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