What to look for in your child’s Tiny Tots Ballet Class!

As a parent, you want the best for your child, especially when it comes to their extracurricular activities.

Ballet can be a wonderful introduction to the world of dance, but finding the right class for your tiny tot can be overwhelming. With so many options available, how do you choose the perfect ballet class that will nurture your child's love for dance and set them up for success?

Here are some key factors to consider:

1. Qualified Instructors:
The first thing to look for when choosing a ballet class for your child is the qualifications of the instructors. A qualified teacher with experience working with young children will not only teach proper technique but also create a positive and supportive learning environment. Look for instructors who are patient, enthusiastic, and passionate about teaching ballet to toddlers. At Balanced Ballerinas Mini we ONLY have teachers who are enthusiastic and proud to teach little ones.

2. Age-Appropriate Curriculum:
Ballet classes for tiny tots should be specifically tailored to their age group (2-4 years old). The curriculum should focus on introducing basic ballet movements in a way that is fun, engaging, and developmentally appropriate. This might include activities that incorporate storytelling, imaginative play, and simple exercises to help improve coordination and balance. At Balanced Ballerinas Mini every class involves all these elements which are the perfect recipe for successful ballet classes that have children feeling inspired and seen.

3. Safe and Supportive Environment:
Safety should always be a top priority when selecting a ballet class for your child. Make sure the studio has proper flooring, mirrors, and equipment designed for young dancers. The environment should be clean, well-maintained, and child-friendly to ensure your child feels comfortable and secure during class. Is there a reception? As yourself, if you were to go down the street to grab a coffee whilst class is on, is your child safe? 

4. Ideal Class Sizes:

Sometimes parents think the less students the better, but this is not always the case. The less students, the less inspiration and motivation your child can draw on from other students. Little ones can often focus better in a slightly larger group because the children move like a little team all feeding off one another's energy. In a class size of 2-3 students, high vibes and energy can be difficult to achieve as the students don't have inspiration in the form of their own age.

Yes, a smaller class size allow for more individual attention and interaction between the teacher and students but don't be afraid of a slightly larger class which will also teach your child patience (when waiting their turn), sharing and good manners (when using a prop) and confidence (when seeing someone their own age perform an exercise they initially thought they weren't capable of). 

On the flip side, you don't want your child in a class of 25-30 students with one teacher. A combination of one head teacher with 1-2 assistant/student teachers with a class size of 10 - 15 is ideal and a beautiful playground for developing special friendships. 

5. Creative and Imaginative Approach:
Toddlers learn best through play and exploration, so choose a ballet class that incorporates a creative and imaginative approach to teaching. Activities like using props, playing games, and dancing to familiar music can make learning ballet more enjoyable and engaging for young children. Balanced Ballerinas Mini is all about developing creativity and imagination in little ones!

6. Parent Involvement:
Consider whether you want to be actively involved in your child's ballet class. Some programs offer parent-child classes where parents participate alongside their child, while others may prefer a more independent learning environment for the child. Decide what works best for you and your child's needs.

Personally, at Balanced Ballerinas Mini we strongly encourage students starting ballet when they're ready to break free from the parents grasp and enter the studio on their own. This develops autonomy and important self regulation skills in your child and ensures they are focussing on their teacher, not you. After all, you're paying good money for your child to learn ballet which means you really want them to focus on what they're teacher is saying as opposed to watching over their shoulder to check if you're watching. This allows the student to really absorb the information and loose themselves in the magic of ballet class.

7. Trial Classes and Observation:
Before committing to a full term, take advantage of any trial classes. Don't necessarily ask your child if they enjoyed themself afterwards, instead watch their body language as they enter and exit the space. Listen to any comments they make and then ask if it's something they'd like to do again!

If the studio has an observation area, ensure you're not distracting your child and pay attention to the teaching style, atmosphere and how the other children respond to the class. Is there lots of repetition? Excellent! Repetition in a tiny tots ballet class is key to making little ones feel confident and calm. If it appears the students are allowed to just run all over the place and jump around, then I'd think twice about enrolling. 

8. Positive Atmosphere and Philosophy:
Finally, choose a studio that promotes a positive atmosphere and values building confidence, nurturing creativity, and fostering a love for dance in its students. Avoid studios that focus too heavily on strict discipline or competition at this young age, as it can be intimidating and discouraging for tiny tots.

Pay attention to the staff, the older students and the parents of other tiny tots. What's the vibe? Are the older students rude or respectful of others in the dance community? Are there parents gossiping in the corner? Are parents dropping and going off for coffee - this is a wonderful sign that the studio is trusted with the safety of the children's wellbeing!

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By considering these factors, you can find the perfect tiny tots ballet class that will not only introduce your child to the beautiful world of dance but also provide them with a supportive and enriching experience that will last a lifetime. Happy dancing!