Age Appropriate Dance Classes for Children

The development of children happens at varying rates, so it is important not to rush children into doing activities that they are not physically or mentally prepared for. Dance is one of those activities. Movement is vital for a child's health and dance is a great way to get children moving.

One to two year olds

Many dance studios offer "Mommy and Me" style classes that allow the youngest children the opportunity for movement in a group setting with the comfort of their mothers nearby and moving with them. These classes are perfect for young children, as the present mothers know the physical limits of their children.

Two to three year olds

Toddlers in the two to three year old range can benefit greatly from movement classes that are not formally structured and do not teach specific moves or steps, but allow the child to move freely as they wish. These classes are perfect to allow toddlers to find rhythm as they like, and to move in ways that they feel is good for them.

Four to five year olds

Children in the four to five year old range can begin learning basic steps, but with the freedom to move as they please in creative ways. Too much structure is detrimental to the creative outlets of the child as well as harmful because many children in that age bracket do not have the mental ability to remember steps and can thus grow frustrated.

Five years and up

For children five and older, more traditionally structured classes are appropriate in areas like ballet, tap, jazz or modern dance.

Dance is hugely beneficial for children in both physical and emotional ways. As a creative outlet, dance is amazing for children, and physically it improves their health and flexibility in many ways.