While a sweet dancing toddler in a pink tutu is an adorable image, ballet classes are more than just a cute photo opportunity. Engaging the mind and body at the same time, ballet and other forms of dance provide immeasurable benefits to young children as they grow and learn. The St. Laurent School of Dance discusses the advantages dance classes can have for your growing child.

The 3 Benefits Beyond Learning to Dance

Improves Strength and Coordination

Among the top physical benefits of dance is that it greatly improves a child’s strength and coordination. With practice, they will gradually build up the strength required to hold certain poses and learn jumps, leaps, and twirls. Repetition, with correction, increases body awareness and coordination. Teaching them to understand and take care of their bodies early can help them tremendously down the road.

Teaches Discipline

Learning footwork, moves, and routines does not happen overnight. Dance classes teach a child the importance of discipline and determination early on. To succeed, your little one will have to listen to the teacher, share space with others, and learn to take turns. The lessons children are taught in dance class will help them become more conscientious and respectful of others.

Encourages Self-Confidence

Positive reinforcement in a safe space from peers and teachers can lead to a child coming out of their shell and wanting to interact with others. Mastering and performing dance routines will increase your child’s confidence, while engaging in group activities will teach him or her to be more outgoing.

One dance dad summed up these benefits very well in a blog post, where he explains he’s not paying for dance lessons:  Shad Martin  wrote that he’s paying for friendships and life skills that come with learning a new skill and participating in a group activity. His daughters are learning to push themselves, work with others, and handle both success and defeat. These are valuable rewards dance classes offer that will benefit your little one for the rest of their lives. 

To get your child involved in an activity that helps both their mind and body, contact The St. Laurent School of Dance. Located in Honolulu, this dance studio offers ballet, tap and jazz classes for kids of all ages. For more information about their programs, contact the helpful staff at (808) 845-1291 or visit them online.