Many children ask to dance long before they know what ballet, jazz or hip hop actually are. The good news is that there is no wrong first choice. What matters most is a class that suits your child’s age, energy and personality, taught by someone who makes them feel welcome.
Start with age and attention span
- Ages 3 to 4: look for a short, playful class (often called creative movement, baby ballet or tiny dancers) with music, games and imagination rather than technique.
- Ages 5 to 7: children can start a style properly. Ballet, tap and jazz classes at this age still use a lot of play.
- Ages 8 and up: most styles are open, and children can choose by what they enjoy watching and listening to.
Match the style to your child
Children who love stories and music boxes often enjoy ballet. Children who like rhythm and noise usually love tap. If your child dances in the kitchen to pop songs, try hip hop or jazz. Musical theatre suits children who also like to sing and act.
Questions to ask the dance school
- Can we book a trial class before paying for a term?
- How many children are in a class, and how are they grouped?
- What should my child wear for the trial, and is there a uniform later?
- Do you have a written safeguarding policy, and who is the safeguarding lead?
- Are shows and exams optional?
After the trial, ask your child what they enjoyed most. Their answer is usually the best guide to the next step.