Types of Kids Dance Classes: Finding the Perfect Fit for Your Child 

With so many styles and options available, how do you know which one your child will enjoy the most? To help you and your child make an informed decision, let’s explore the different dance styles and age-appropriate classes we offer. 

Depending on their preferences and age, one of them will surely set your child up for joy and success in their dance journey. 

Dance Classes for Toddlers and Preschoolers 

Kids can start dancing as early as 12 months old, and these early experiences promote physical development, creativity, and social skills. Dancing from a very young age improves motor skills, cognitive development, and emotional expression. 

Here are the dance classes available for kids who are 12 months to 4 years old: 

• Tumbletots (12-23 Months): A playful “Tot and Me” class focusing on basic motor skills, balance, and social interaction with parent participation. 

• Pre-Kinder Song & Dance (2-3 years): This program introduces toddlers to dance and music in a fun setting to enhance coordination, self-expression, and social skills. 

• Kinder Combination (3-4 years): Combines Ballet, Tap, and Tumbling to build a sense of rhythm, encourage creativity, and improve body coordination. 

If your child is between 12 months and 4 years old, then the focus is on fundamental motor skills rather than the specific dance style your child is practicing. Just move them up each class as they grow! 

Dance Classes for Kids Ages 4 to 6 

When they get to the kindergarten and early elementary years, your child’s ability to learn movement patterns increases, and their attention spans get longer. At this stage, it’s a good time to get more advanced dance classes in an age-appropriate, enjoyable atmosphere. 

Here are the dance classes available for kids these ages and which is better for your child depending on their preferences: 

• Combination: This class improves basic dance skills, enhancing your child’s memory, coordination, and ability to follow structured steps as they explore Ballet, Tap, and Jazz. This class is great for children who enjoy structure and want the fun and challenge of detailed choreographies that involve multiple styles. 

• Hip Hop: Hip Hop is high-energy and fun, encouraging kids to explore their individuality, sense of rhythm, and body isolations. This class is ideal for expressive children who love upbeat music and have a ton of energy throughout the day. 

• Acrobatics: Acrobatics blends dance with beginner acrobatic skills, focusing on core strength and flexibility. It’s a perfect fit for energetic kids who enjoy physical challenges and want to build strength while learning fun tricks like cartwheels and basic tumbling. 

Dance Classes for Kids Ages 7 and Older 

After your kid turns 7, their dance class options are all the same: ballet, tap, jazz, lyrical, hip hop, and acrobatics. Your kid may still be developing at these ages, but they are more than ready to specialize in a specific dance style. 

Here’s what each dance style improves and how to help your child choose which one suits them better: 

• Ballet: Ballet is the foundation of many dance forms and focuses on grace, discipline, and precise movements. It’s perfect for children who enjoy structure and aspire to develop strong technique and posture. 

• Tap: Tap is about creating rhythmic patterns and sounds with your feet. It’s ideal for kids who love making some noise and have a keen sense of rhythm. 

• Jazz: Jazz dance is energetic and expressive. It combines elements of ballet and modern dance with upbeat music. It’s great for children who enjoy dynamic movements. 

• Lyrical: Lyrical dance blends ballet and jazz techniques to tell a story through expressive movements. It’s suited for emotionally expressive kids who enjoy conveying feelings through dance. 

• Hip Hop: Hip Hop is a high-energy style that incorporates street dance moves and contemporary music. It’s perfect for children who love to move to the latest beats and express themselves openly with sharp movements. 

• Acrobatics: Acrobatics combines dance with gymnastics, focusing on flexibility, strength, and balance. It’s ideal for energetic kids who enjoy physical challenges and want to incorporate flips and tricks into their dance routines. 

Start Your Child’s Dance Journey With Dance Unlimited Miami 

Choosing the right class for your child depends on their age and preferences. If your child is between 12 months and 4 years old, the specific dance style is not as important as simply getting them moving to improve their motor and cognitive skills. 

However, their preferences become the main thing to consider as they grow. If your kid is high-energy and wants a style that expresses their personality, maybe hip hop is for them. If they are, instead, very emotionally expressive and want to portray those emotions through dance, maybe lyrical is the right call. 

And if you and your child can’t agree on what to choose for their first dance class, you can always contact us! With over 50 years of experience instructing dancers of all ages, Dance Unlimited Miami has grown to become the city’s leading dance school. 

If you’re unsure what class to enroll your child in or want general information, use our contact form or call (305) 385-9393! Join the Dance Unlimited family and give your child the gift of dance in an environment where our instructors will support them every step, leap, and turn of the way.