Dance classes are fun for kids of all ages, but if you are looking for a class for your child, you may be wondering how to find the right type. There are many different types of classes, from jazz, to ballet, to tap, and each offers a different style of dance. Learn about these classes, what to expect during class, and what your child will need to have to participate.
Jazz dance classes
Jazz dance classes are lively and fun for kids! Music is often popular and may even be on the radio’s top 40 list. The movements are upbeat and can contain jumps, hops, twists, and more. Dancers generally wear tight-fitting clothing such as shorts or pants with a tight top or bra, while dancers wear a top with a tank top underneath and a pair of pants or shorts that allow for easy movement. The specialty shoes are available in nude or black and can be lace-up or slip-on. These shoes have a small heel and are available with or without small rubber pads on the soles. If you are enrolling your child in jazz dance classes, ask the instructors what type of shoes to buy, as many instructors want all students to be the same style or color.
Ballet classes
Ballet lessons are one of the most popular types of lessons for children. Children will learn a combination of traditional movements and twists and the focus will be on making each movement as graceful as possible. Children will need a special type of ballet shoe and may eventually require a special type of pointe shoe that allows them to dance on their toes (although this can take years and years of practice). Some teachers may request that students wear special clothing for class, typically a plain black leotard, pink socks, and pink shoes. Male dancers typically need a plain white T-shirt, a pair of black stockings, and black shoes.
Tap dance classes
Unlike other types of lessons, tap lessons want children to be heard! Children wear a special type of shoe with metal taps attached to the heel and toe of the shoe. These touches help create specific sounds as the dancers move. There are a number of popular moves that take advantage of these touches during tap lessons, including the random move, brush, and ball swap. If your child is interested in these kinds of classes, talk to the teacher about what kind of attraction is necessary. Many lessons only require comfortable clothing that does not inhibit movement, but your teacher may have more specific costume requests.
If you are not sure which type of class is right for your child, consider trying to find a lesson that includes a combination of different types or talking to the instructors in the study. Doing this can help ensure that your children have fun and that is the most important reason to start dancing.