As a parent, finding fun forms of exercise that inspire your child to keep moving and learn new skills is a top priority. One great way to improve flexibility, coordination, and body awareness is by enrolling your little one in ballet dance classes. With winter weather approaching, here are a few ways to ensure your child is ready to dance without feeling chilly.  

How Can Kids Keep Warm During Dance Class?

1. Start With the Basics

Ballet classes require basic attire, regardless of the time of year. Investing in a few pairs of thick tights and leotards is beneficial, as these items will compose your child's primary outfit as a young dancer. Some dance studios ask students to wear certain colors, while others allow children to wear tights and leotards in various colors and designs. Find out what your dance school requires and buy a few sets. 

2. Layer

After the leotard and tights, invest in a few simple layers so that your child is comfortable when class begins. Since movement will increase body temperature, a few layers that can be removed as the class goes on are much better than just one thick layer. For example, leg warmers are handy accessories for the lower body. A long-sleeved shirt or a sweatshirt are encouraged on top. Ask your dancer to test their range of motion in their layered outfit at home before heading to class to determine if they're comfortable. 

3. Warm Up & Cool Down

To avoid pulling muscles and soreness, make sure your child participates in warm-up exercises as the class begins to get their heart rate going and to increase their body temperature. Before heading back into the cold weather, your child should also participate in cool-down stretching to prevent overworked muscles from stiffening. Although sometimes not seen as the "fun" or "real" part of the class, these two parts can sometimes be the most important.

4. Don't Forget Outerwear

Most importantly, plan for the transitional walks when your young dancer will be outdoors. Invest in a warm winter jacket that covers the majority of their body and dance apparel as they walk from the car to their classroom. Easy to remove boots or slip on shoes depending upon the weather helps keep feet and ballet slippers dry and lessen the chance of slips or falls and keep your child comfortable.  Of course hats and mittens (or gloves) can show off personality as well as keeping our littlest ones from getting chilled when heading into class.

If your little one is interested in dance classes, take them to The Gymnastics Training Center of Rochester. Proudly serving families throughout Monroe and Wayne counties since 1987, this ballet, gymnastics, and cheer center offers inspiring, welcoming programs that make exercise fun and fulfilling. Call (585) 388-8686 to schedule a tour of the facility, and visit them online to learn more about their schedule.