About Our Program:
Petite Ballet is invested in fostering a love of dance in every young child. Classes at Petite Ballet invite students to learn to dance in an engaging, fun, and nurturing environment. It is our goal that after each class, dancers leave feeling accomplished, valued, and like they are the best dancers in the room!
What makes Petite Ballet distinctive is that our studio focuses solely on early childhood ages. Unique syllabi are created specifically for each level, geared towards the specific emotional, social, and physical benchmarks for every age. This ensures that students are set up to succeed and meet expectations in each class, and guarantees that students will continue to learn new material as they progress through each age group. No matter which class a child attends or which teacher they learn from, students know what to expect from Petite Ballet - a love of dance and lots of fun!
Students begin each class with a group exercise that allows them to explore developmentally appropriate versions of skills like spatial awareness, path finding, direction following, and body control, among others. Students will also learn correct ballet terminology through a series of imaginative warm ups and stretches that mimic center barre, building these skills to become more specific as students’ ages progress. Through the use of props, students explore how dancers can become storytellers, learning simple choreography to some of their favorite songs, which are carefully selected to appeal to each age level. Thoughtfully curated classes plus expertly instructors equal a consistent dance experience across all classes and with every teacher.
Class Guidelines:
Grown Up & Me 2 - 3 years old
Our youngest ballerinas are welcome to experience dance for the very first time with a parent or caretaker. Students and grown ups dance together throughout class, with adults helping to facilitate not only movement but organizational and listening skills. Classes are filled with exercises that help ballerinas develop a love of dancing and being in the dance studio.
2.5 - 3.5 years old
Ballerinas who are at least 2 years 6 months may be ready to dance independently in our youngest drop off class. Dancers should be able to identify the different parts of their body, and have basic gross locomotor skills like tiptoeing and hopping on two feet. Emotionally, readiness may vary from child to child, but generally, they should have a level of independence and willingness to follow instructions. Students should able to separate from caregivers for this class. The primary goal at this age is to foster a love for dance and provide a positive experience.
3 - 4 years old
In our 3 - 4 year old classes, students are able to follow instructions, engage in the group activities, and express themselves imaginatively through movement. They should also be comfortable in group settings and willing to participate in group activities. With encouragement, students will have a joyful ballet journey and experience the benefits of self-expression and physical development.
4 - 5 years old
Building on gross motor and basic locomotor skills, students in our 4 - 5 year old classes will begin to focus on how fine motor skills can be used in dance. Students will follow two part directions (i.e. tiptoe to the mirror and curtsey) and follow instructions as we flow through class. Students will further develop their coordination, balance, and posture, as well as their listening and social skills. In a supportive atmosphere, students receive feedback and guidance that help them learn and advance their ballet skills.
Kindergarten, 1st and 2nd Grade
Designed for older students who may not be ready to commit to a traditional studio, our early elementary aged classes blend imaginative movement with a structured ballet exercises based on the Royal Academy of Dance syllabus. Students in these classes are enthusiastic about learning classical ballet steps while maintaining a creative approach dance. These classes are a great option for older students who enjoy an imaginative atmosphere where they will be challenged to try new things and are not yet interested in performing in a formal recital.