Many children love to dance, whether it’s to the tune of classical music or their favorite pop band. If you’re looking for an activity that incorporates your little one’s favorite activity with a host of mental, physical, and social health benefits, dance classes may be just the perfect solution. This guide outlines four of the main advantages of taking lessons when you're young. 

Why You Should Enroll Your Little One In Dance Classes

1. Supports Physical & Cognitive Development 

Dance classes provide children with a fun, engaging medium to channel their natural energy. Various forms of exercise, including dance, can bolster kids' kinesthetic memory, agility, balance, coordination, and spatial awareness. It can also foster a love of physical activity that can benefit them throughout their life. Learning the techniques and steps can improve a little one's cognitive skills and might also enhance creative problem-solving abilities. 

2. Boosts Self-Esteem 

Children will receive positive reinforcement from their instructor and classmates as they learn new moves and improve their skills during dance classes. This can engender a sense of pride in their talent and hard work. 

Being in an environment with fellow beginners can also increase their sense of belonging, teamwork, and leadership, as classmates will help one another and work toward a shared goal. Watching peers make mistakes and improve from them may enhance their sense of empathy and patience, as well. 

3. Improves Sleep 

As a parent, you likely know how important a good night’s sleep is for your little ones. Beyond being cranky and fatigued the next day, chronic lack of sleep can increase a child’s risk of health complications, including those stemming from diabetes, obesity, mental health challenges, and learning difficulties. 

Fortunately, in addition to a consistent bedtime routine and other good sleep habits, physical activity—like dance classes—can improve a child’s sleep quality by tiring them out. The body's core temperature also begins to lower about 30 to 90 minutes after exercise, which can help facilitate sleep.

4. Fosters Creativity & Mental Health

Dance classes can help children tap into their imagination and express themselves creatively. These lessons teach them to channel emotions healthily through art—a skill they can utilize throughout their life. Expressing feelings through movement can also relieve stress and improve mood.

Families throughout Greater St. Peters, MO, turn to The Little Gym of St. Charles for gymnastics, tumbling, karate, and dance classes for little ones of all ages. From sports skills classes and child enrichment programs to kid’s camps and birthday parties, this facility has offered various fun, educational, and active options for more than 40 years. Call  (636) 970-1220 to talk to a helpful staff member and schedule a tour or book an event. Visit the website to learn more about the gym and its programs.