The first day of dance class is an epic experience. For kids who grew up with ballerinas or hip-hop dancers as role models, that first time stepping onto the studio floor can feel like a “pinch me” moment.
But what if your kids aren’t so sure what kind of dance they like? What if they’re overwhelmed?
Some kids don’t have a specific type of class in mind from the start, and that’s okay. There are so many styles to choose from, and each one is fantastic in its own way.
Which one is the best match for your kids’ personalities? Here’s how to decide.
What is the Best Dance Class to Enroll My Child To?
Choosing the best dance classes for kids and their preferred dance style depends on all kinds of factors, from their age to their personality to simple preference.
Here’s a look at some popular dance styles and what makes them stand out:
Ballet
Ballet is known for its grace, discipline, and technique. If your child enjoys structure, learning proper posture, and a more classical form of expression, ballet may be the right fit.
It’s also an excellent way to improve flexibility, coordination, and strength. Ballet classes usually start as early as age 3 in most studios.
Jazz
Jazz dance is high-energy and fun, making it a favorite for kids who love to move.
With a focus on rhythm, leaps, and turns, jazz allows for more creativity and personal expression than ballet. It incorporates elements from ballet but is often set to popular music.
Tap
Tap dancing is all about rhythm and making music with your feet. This could be the perfect choice if your child enjoys making noise and working on rhythm patterns.
Tap dancing helps with coordination and musicality, and kids often love the sound of their tap shoes as they learn new steps.
Hip-Hop
Hip-hop is ideal for kids who want to dance to the latest beats and express themselves more relaxed and freestyle. It’s a fun and energetic style that allows for creativity and personal interpretation.
Hip-hop classes can include improv, complex footwork, and body isolations, which makes the class a great choice for kids who like moving to the music they hear on the radio.
Contemporary
Contemporary dance blends elements of ballet, jazz, and modern dance. It’s more fluid and expressive, allowing dancers to interpret emotions and tell stories through movement.
Contemporary dance is ideal for kids who prefer a more creative, interpretive dance style and want to try different types of movement.
How to Choose the Best Dance Class and Dance Style
Finding the right dance style for your child starts with understanding their interests and personality.
Observe Their Natural Movements
Pay attention to how your child moves. Do they love twirling around the house, or are they more inclined to jump and move with energy?
If they enjoy leaping and spinning, ballet or contemporary might suit them. Jazz or hip-hop could be the better option if they prefer quick, sharp movements.
Let Them Try Different Styles
Many dance studios offer trial classes or beginner programs that allow kids to sample different styles before committing. Encourage your child to try a few classes to see what they enjoy the most.
Consider Their Personality
Dance can be a wonderful outlet for kids to express facets of their personality.
If your child is shy and reserved, ballet or contemporary dance may help them find confidence through structure and discipline.
If they’re outgoing and energetic, styles like hip-hop or jazz might be a better fit.
Talk to Dance Instructors
Dance teachers are a great resource for deciding which styles might best suit your kid based on their age, skill level, and what they’re interested in.
The 5 Elements of Dance for Kids
There are five key elements that make up the art form of dance.
Body
This is about the physical aspect of dance and teaching kids how to move their bodies in different ways. Kids learn to control particular body parts, such as their arms, legs, or head, to create various shapes and movements.
Action
Action is all about the movement itself, whether that means jumping, twirling, or even tapping. This allows kids to explore different ways to move through space, alone or in coordination with other dancers.
Space
In dance, space is built around understanding how to move through their surrounding area. Kids learn how to make sense of their personal space and how to share space with other dancers. This helps them become more aware of their surroundings and teaches them how to move fluidly in different directions.
Time
Time is the rhythm, speed, and tempo of dance movement. In dance, kids work on controlling their movements so they match the beat of the music, whether it’s fast or slow, so they can improve their grasp of musicality and timing.
Energy
Energy is about how the movement is performed. A dance movement’s energy expresses its emotion and intention. Kids convey various feelings through their dance skills by learning to channel different energy levels.
What Is the Best Age for a Child to Start Dance?
The best age for a child to start dancing largely depends on whether they’re interested and ready. Here’s a breakdown of what you can expect at different ages:
Ages 2-3
Dance classes at this age are mostly focused on fun and basic movement.
“Movin’ & Groovin‘” or “Toddler Dance” classes help young kids develop coordination, balance, and awareness of their bodies. These classes are low-pressure and are more about getting kids moving and comfortable with the basics.
Ages 3-6
At this point, kids can start more structured pre-school dance classes like ballet, tap, and jazz. Kids in this age range have better coordination and are ready to learn specific movements and techniques.
This age is an excellent time to introduce them to different styles and see which they find most interesting.
Ages 7 and Up
Older children are ready for more advanced, beginning school age dance classes focusing on technique, performance, and competitions. Kids who are seven or older can take their dance training more seriously and can start committing to specific styles they want to improve on.
Whenever your young dancer starts taking classes, be sure to encourage them to progress at their own pace and enjoy the learning process. With the right support, your child’s dance journey will stick with them through the years as a fun and rewarding experience.
Best Dance Classes for Kids in Fresno, California
America’s Kids In Motion offers dance classes in a wide range of styles, skill levels, and ages.
Whatever your kids are interested in, we’ve got it – and with experienced, top-tier instructors to boot.
Contact us today to learn more about America’s Kids In Motion dance classes.
