Kids Dance Lessons: What to Expect and How to Prepare for Your Kids for Their First Class 

Signing your kids to their first dance class is exciting for you and your children. Whether your child dreams of becoming a ballerina or simply loves moving to the rhythm, starting dance lessons can help them build confidence, discipline, creativity, teamwork, and social skills. 

Here’s everything you need to know to prepare for your child’s first dance class and support them throughout their dance journey. 

How to Choose the Right Dance Class for Your Kids 

The first step is selecting an age-appropriate class that matches your child’s interests and development level. For very young children between 12 and 23 months, programs like Tumbletots offer a perfect introduction to movement and rhythm with parental participation. 

If your child is older, there are still many dance styles to choose from, including: 

• Pee Wee Combination for 4-5 year olds. 

• Mini Hip-Hop for 5-6 year olds. 

• Ballet for 7-12 year olds. 

• Jazz for children 13 and older. 

But the question is, with so many options, which one should your child choose? That ultimately comes down to their preferences, but if they’re not sure, you may want to consider the following factors when deciding: 

• If they’re looking to get in shape or burn off extra energy, then hip-hop beginner classes could be ideal for its high-energy moves. 

• If they’re total beginners and need a gentler introduction to dance, jazz beginner classes offer a smoother learning curve. 

• If they want to move with elegance and grace, then beginner ballet classes might be the right fit, though it does require more patience initially. 

Finally, remember that children often change their minds about what they want to dance, so be open to switching classes if they want to. 

How to Prepare Your Kids for Their First Dance Class? 

The first thing to consider is the clothes. Generally, form-fitting, stretchy materials work best, and specific requirements may vary by dance style. Proper dance shoes are essential, but you’ll find they vary by discipline – ballet requires ballet slippers, tap needs tap shoes, and so forth. 

Don’t stress too much about it now: your instructor will guide you on the exact requirements for your child’s class and purchase the right equipment. On the first day, just focus on comfortable clothes and shoes that allow them to move freely. 

Beyond clothing, ensure your kid fastens their hair if it’s long enough to obstruct their vision during movement.  

Finally, pack a dance bag with a water bottle, a small towel, and maybe a light, energizing snack for after class. 

What Will the First Class Be Like? 

On the first day of class, ensure your child is there at least 10-15 minutes early to get to know the facilities and know where everything is. 

A bit of extra time always helps children acclimate to the new environment and reduces any anxiety they might feel, especially in younger children.  

A typical first class begins with warm-up exercises to prepare the body for movement while teaching fundamental dance concepts. These exercises include basic stretches, simple coordination activities, and rhythm games. 

The main portion of class usually involves learning basic steps and movement patterns through fun, age-appropriate activities that help children ease into the technical aspects of dance training. 

Looking for Beginner Dance Classes in Miami? Check Out Dance Unlimited 

Dance Unlimited has been at the forefront of dance education in South Florida for over five decades. Established in 1971, our studio has become Miami’s premier dance institution, offering comprehensive instruction in various dance styles for children and adults. 

We aim to create a supportive community where dancers can develop lifelong dance skills and connections with their classmates. 

Join the Dance Unlimited family and give your child the gift of dance in an environment where every step, leap, and turn is celebrated. Simply visit our website to view our class schedule and register online.  

For more information, contact us today or at (305) 385-9393!