Why Preschool Ballet Classes Are the Perfect Start for Young Dancers

maddymmiller1
Jul 15
2 min read

Enrolling preschoolers in dance classes is an excellent way to introduce them to the wonderful art of dance while also supporting their early development!

Physical Movement

Ballet for preschoolers is a great way for little ones to move in a fun environment! A ballet class for 3 to 5 year old dancers can benefit their strength, flexibility, range of motion, coordination, and balance. This is helpful if your child is also interested in sports. Consistent dance classes for kids can help with proper alignment and posture which benefits life long health. Dance classes can be a year-round activity so it is perfect for kids to stay active in the cold Omaha winter months of being stuck inside.

Young ballerinas in black leotards sit in a circle on a wooden floor, talking and smiling in a dance studio with a calm atmosphere. — Young dancers enjoying socializing at Mary Lorraine's Dance Center.

Dancers in Class at Mary Lorraine's Dance Center

Social Skills

Dance classes offer young dancers the opportunity to form new friendships. In a children's dance class, kids learn how to engage with peers of their own age. For preschool dance classes, this involves tackling challenges such as keeping their hands to themselves, not jumping ahead in line, and speaking to others politely. These friendships are crucial for the development of young children.

Self-Confidence

Dance class offers a wonderful opportunity for young dancers to develop their personalities! For children who are not yet in school or have just started, participating in an activity like ballet is an excellent way for them to begin feeling secure and independent away from their parents. Dance can assist children who experience anxiety or fear of unfamiliar people and environments. With each week of dance class, young dancers build confidence. The experience of being away from parents, even if it is just 45 minutes, interacting with Mary Lorraine's Dance Center's wonderful dance teachers and peers, and performing their routines gracefully all contribute to their self-assurance!

Discipline and Structure

Ballet class for preschoolers is a great introduction into the discipline and structure they will have in school and throughout their life. Having to follow rules and activities outside of home can be a first for young ballet dancers. Mary Lorraine's Dance Center believes in introducing the discipline of ballet in an age appropriate manner.

This includes:

listening
following directions
not talking over the dance teacher
taking turns
sitting or standing still
learning manners

Mental Benefits

Ballet stimulates the brain! Dance tasks young children with remembering choreography and dance vocabulary. They develop skills in pattern recognition and linking physical movements with mental processes. Participating in dance class enhances their focus, concentration, spatial awareness, and develops both gross and fine motor skills.

Preschool dance stretches children's imagination. In our dance classes at Mary Lorraine's Dance Center, creative imagery is used to learn dance steps and movement. Some examples are pretending "to be a princess" while skipping or pretending "to have diamonds" on your toes in pointing your feet! Dance class is also a mood booster. It is a great way for little ones to release energy and express themselves.