Early Childhood

Dance. Play. Leap. Twirl. Stretch. Imagine.

Young children do all this and more in our early childhood programs.

Our goal is to make learning dance as much fun as possible, with each child leaving the studio with new friends, a positive self-image and a sense of accomplishment.

Creative Movement, Pre-Ballet and more for the tiniest dancers. Along with learning steps, toddlers and young kids develop discipline, confidence, social skills and musicality in these structured, fun-filled classes.

Early childhood group classes offered weekly at our Rittenhouse studio. Because these are small-group classes, we require registration for the full series.

Sign up today for our Fall Session!

7-week series beginning October 31 & November 1 (no classes Thanksgiving weekend)

Nutcracker Pre-Ballet series (ages 4-6) – Saturdays at 9:30 am – $132.50 (Purple tutus and tiaras will be provided to each dancer; kids are encouraged to wear purple, pink or white to complete their “costume.”)

Creative Movement (ages 2.5 – 3.5) – Sundays at 9:30 am – $122.50

Dance Basics (ages 4-6) – Sundays at 9:30 am – $122.50

Early Childhood Programs we offer:

Creative Movement — Toddlers will explore all kinds of movement using games, role-playing, stories, sing-a-long songs and other activities. Along with hopping, leaping, spinning and embodying animals, they might even do a few yoga poses! While the kids have fun on the dance floor, they’ll also get lots of practice following directions and developing body control.

*Creative Movement (2 year-olds + caregivers) — A variation of our popular toddler program where grownups get to join in on the fun!

Pre-Ballet — An introduction to classical ballet in a welcoming, no-pressure environment. Along with traditional techniques, class includes exercises and movement activities inspired by popular children’s music. The structured group setting encourages students to connect with each other while also developing creativity, discipline, confidence and musicality. No experience required. Individual attention is given to each child so that even those with prior ballet training can continue progressing.

Dance Basics —  Kids will be introduced to various dance styles including Jazz, Ballet, Hip Hop, and maybe a little tap (tap shoes not required)! While the kids have fun on the dance floor, they’ll also get lots of practice following directions and developing body control. Perfect for the child who has already taken Creative Movement or is completely new to dance.

*Dance Party Mix — This combination of line dances and movement-based games even gets “non-dancers” on the floor! Children will participate in dance battles, get a chance to lead their own moves, play “freeze dance” and more. And, of course, there will be plenty of easy-to-follow routines along with party favorites like “Jump in the Line” and “Cupid Shuffle,” to name a few.

Jazz/Hip-Hop & Jazz/Ballet Combo — Kids get an introduction to two different styles in these energetic combo courses. Each class includes a blend of technique, follow-the-leader routines and dance games. Along with foundational steps, students will learn a complete routine by the end of the session. Parents will be invited to watch an informal demo at the last class.

Tap Intro — Build up from the basics! This supportive introduction to tap will include beginning development of the concepts of coordination and balance with a specific focus on rhythm. Students will be introduced to tap technique while learning to create music as they dance! This level is ideal for kids new to tap as well as those who’ve taken prior creative movement or other dance classes.

*World Beats — Dance around the world in this uptempo class featuring international rhythms and styles. From a cumbia partner routine to an Irish reel, kids will get a taste of all sorts of different cultures. It’s almost like a kid-friendly Zumba class, but with less emphasis on fitness. The instructor will break down some of the steps so that everyone can feel comfortable with them. (Classes can also be tailored to focus on specific international genres such as African, Bollywood or Latin.)

*These classes are currently offered for private parties and events. Email us if you’re interested in an ongoing class. If we get enough inquiries, we’re happy to set up new sessions!