Dance classes for young children are an excellent way to develop social skills, communicate, build trust and learn to cooperate. Like any other school, the first day could be a little scary. Being prepared will take some of that fear away. Use this list of items to set aside some of the first-day anxiety with a shopping trip to get what they need to start ballet class on the right foot. 

What to Buy Before Starting Ballet School

1. Ballet Slippers

Boys and girls will need the proper footwear. Ballet shoes typically come with elastic bands to sew on the shoe to keep them on little feet. They allow your tiny dancer to move safely across the floor without slipping. 

The shoes will also have elastic drawstrings that will need to be tucked under the top of the shoe to avoid a tripping hazard. Pointe dance is a different type of ballet done on the toe. If your child decides to try Pointe class, you'll need to purchase toe shoes. 

2. Leotards

A one-piece outfit made of cotton blends or stretchy materials, like Lycra and spandex, are called leotards and are the required uniform for a girl ballet dancer. Schools may require a particular brand, style, or color, so check before buying. 

3. Tights 

Tights are an essential part of a dancer's wardrobe. Schools may also give young dancers the option to wear shorts, but tights could be a better choice due to their comfort, which makes striking the many poses they will learn in dance class easier to accomplish.

4. Warmups

Before class, your child will need to warm up their muscles to avoid injury. Sweatpants, knit leg warmers, and booties or slippers kids wear during stretching activities can help the warming process. 

These garments are not a part of the required dance wardrobe, so you can let your child pick out whatever colors and styles they like. Although in some cases, schools will allow them to wear warmup clothes during dance classes. If they do, they will likely require certain brands or styles.

When your child is ready to start dance class equipped with all the clothing and accessories they need, look to Hudson Conservatory of Ballet in Hudson, OH. This family-oriented academy offers beginner to advanced courses for children starting at age two. The knowledgeable instructors will help your child express themselves and become more confident through dance. Call them at (330) 474-0813 to reserve a spot for your child or visit their website for a look at their instructors and classes.