ML Interest Tag: dance-studios

To the Pointe: The Best Ballet Classes for Kids

by Marissa Mullen

Ballet classes offer a wonderful way to inspire your kids to express their emotions through music, storytelling and creativity. Ballet also has other benefits, such as learning to appreciate the art form and keeping your kid active in a fun, graceful and disciplined environment. And, can we talk about how cute they look in those tutus? Several local dance studios in San Diego offer ballet classes for all levels and ages. Read on for nine of our favorites and get your tiny dancers ready to leap into the wonderful world of dance.

photo: City Ballet of San Diego

City Ballet of San Diego
Located in Pacific Beach, City Ballet offers a strong dance curriculum consisting of several classical styles. All the instructors have professional ballet backgrounds and bring their own individual qualities to the school. Classes are offered for kids ages 3 and up and each child is carefully evaluated to ensure that they are physically ready for the level in which they are placed. There are opportunities to perform throughout the year and students can audition for The Nutcracker – voted by The Tommy Awards to be San Diego’s best!

What’s Unique: The school is affiliated with the professional City Ballet of San Diego company. Students may be hand selected for the two year Trainee program, which serves as a stepping stone from advanced student to professional dancer. This could lead to an apprenticeship with the main company. Each year, the school also hosts a summer intensive program, where they invite world renowned guest artists to work with the students.

941 Garnet Ave.
San Diego, Ca 92109
858-274-6058
Online: cityballet.org/school

photo: Marissa Mullen

Bunny’s School of Dance
Dancers ages 3 and up will love learning at this longtime dance studio in La Mesa. A combo class of ballet, tap and tumbling is offered at various levels in a relaxed, informal environment. The small, intimate studio features a bright, cheerful atmosphere, with a strong emphasis placed on fun. At the end of the year, students get to show off their skills in an annual dance performance at the San Diego County Fair.

What’s Unique: This studio is especially great for young, beginning dancers. Because the classes are a mix of tumbling, ballet and tap, toddlers and preschool aged kids are never bored. A variety of fun age appropriate games and activities really get the kiddos involved, while learning basic steps and discipline. A free trial class is offered before signing up. And unlike most studios, Mom and Dad are also allowed to stay and watch their little dancer, which helps keep tears to a minimum!

8062 La Mesa Blvd.
La Mesa, Ca 91942
619-466-5890

photo: Proud M. via Yelp

Neisha’s Dance & Music Academy
This state-of-the-art facility has two locations – one in Point Loma, and one in the heart of Eastlake. They accept kids as young as 18 months to their creative dance program. If your kiddo wants to do more than just ballet, they have many other options such as tap, jazz, hip hop, contemporary, acro, creative dance and musical theater. The clean, family environment complements the positive attitude of the staff, which encourages teamwork, discipline and respect for one another.

What’s Unique: Proud parents can view their dancers at class through the one-way observation windows. Live feed flat screen monitors are also located in the lobby. Neisha’s also hosts a monthly Kids Night Out, a fun party at the studio. In addition, they offer music and preschool classes, all at the Eastlake location. And don’t forget about the guys!  Boys only classes are offered for boys ages 8 and up.

870 Jetty Lane
Chula Vista, Ca 91914
619-585-1133
Online: neishas.com

2650 Truxton Rd
Dance Place at Liberty Station, Ste. 107
San Diego, Ca 92106
619-732-6238
Online: neishas.com

photo: May C. via Yelp

Balletcenter Studios
Balletcenter Studios is made of up two studios – Balletcenter West in Mission Hills and Balletcenter East in El Cajon.  The warm and inviting environment provides a high standard of achievement, while working to increase technical skills, stamina, placement, line and style. This dance program specializes in ballet and guides students through a full course of study, starting from age three, all the way up to the pre-professional level. There are two annual performances, including The Nutcracker in the winter and all of the students, (including the adults!) are given the chance to perform.

What’s Unique: This is the only studio to offer Dance On The Spectrum, a special program for autistic students. Designed for ages 3-10, the program utilizes special education teaching techniques and engages children by encouraging them to express themselves through the joy of dance.

Balletcenter West
1111 Fort Stockton, Ste. F
San Diego, Ca 92103
619-322-7328
Online: balletcenterstudios.com

Balletcenter East
Blossom Flinn Station
14860 Olde Highway 80
El Cajon, Ca 92021
619-322-7328
Online: balletcenterstudios.com

photo: Ballet Institute of San Diego via Flickr

Ballet Institute of San Diego
If your little ballerina is a serious dancer, check out Ballet Institute of San Diego. This Studio, located in Kearny Mesa, offers a comprehensive ballet curriculum that ensures each student will receive the training they need if they aspire to be professional dancers. This includes an internationally renowned faculty with a personal, inspired approach to every student. They also provide quality performing opportunities as well as classes in contemporary, repertoire pointe technique, improvisation and character dance. In addition, there is a body conditioning program to help prepare the youngest students for ballet training and increase their physical abilities.

What’s Unique: The studio space is huge, the largest one being almost 4000 square feet. All three studios feature specially designed wood sprung floors and are covered with studio flooring. Ballet Institute of San Diego recently merged with San Diego Academy of Ballet – a move which serves to constantly bring new and exciting opportunities to its students.

7868 Raytheon Rd.
San Diego, CA 92111
858-284-0561
Online: balletinstitutesd.com

photo: San Diego Civic Youth Ballet via Yelp

San Diego Civic Youth Ballet
San Diego Civic Youth Ballet, a longtime dance studio in Balboa Park, holds more than 50 classes weekly in the famous Casa del Prado studio. Young ballerinas can start taking lessons as early as 4 years-old. Tiny dancers will love participating in four major yearly performances, including The Nutcracker and Fairy Tales in the Park.

What’s Unique: San Diego Civic Youth Ballet hosts a homeschool program that serves students and families. The classes provide educational enrichment and are an affordable option for families searching for outside arts and culture curriculum in their homeschool lesson plans.

1650 El Prado
Casa del Prado Building
San Diego, Ca 92101
619-233-3060
Online: sdcyb.org

photo: Marie A. via Yelp

Pacific Arts Dance Center
Pacific Arts Dance Center is the result of Del Mar Ballet and Royal Academy of Ballet Arts joining forces to create a dance enterprise in the heart of Carmel Valley. The gorgeous new facility features floor to ceiling windows in the studios, with spectacular views. Your kids will want to dance all day long! And with multiple classes in ballet, jazz, hip hop and tap, they can do just that.

What’s Unique: This studio offers the RAD (Royal Academy of Dance) program to its students.  If you’re looking for a structured, grade level program with exams once a year, you’ll find it here.

5550 Carmel Mountain Rd. Ste. 210
San Diego, Ca 92130
858-264-2787
Online: pacificartsdance.com

photo: Lynch Dance Institute

Lynch Dance Institute
This is a new studio in Poway that fosters the love of arts through quality dance instruction. They focus on building a strong classical foundation through technical proficiency. Lynch Dance Institute recognizes that each student is different. The school celebrates that by taking individual needs into consideration when planning their programming and performing opportunities. They also offer a variety of super fun summer camps like choreography workshops, fashion design, musical theater and cross training.

What’s Unique: If you want to get in on the action with your tot, they have parent-toddler classes. There is also a Dancing Tales class for 3 and 4 year-olds wherein they can learn different dance concepts through storytelling and two all boys classes (ballet and creative movement) taught by Mr. Lynch.

12227 Poway Rd.
Poway, Ca 92064
858-282-9911
Online: lynchdance.com

photo: SD Dance With Me

SD Dance With Me
These classes are perfect for beginning ballerinas. Little ones can start as early as 20 months and participate in the Dance & Music Discovery class where rhythms, sounds and music are all explored. Creative movement classes are designed for toddlers to learn some basic ballet, jazz and hip hop with the aid of fun props like hula hoops, ribbons and parents (if needed!)

What’s Unique: This is a great studio to start very young dancers off with discovering the joy of dance. Keep in mind that they are only open Mon.-Weds.

2650 Truxtun Rd., Studio #109
Dance Place, Liberty Station
San Diego, Ca 92106
619-961-3066
123sddancewithme.com

Do you know of a great kids’ ballet studio that didn’t make our list? Let us know in the comments!

––Marissa Mullen

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Pint-Sized Fun! Our Favorite Classes & Programs for Toddlers

by Christine Roulston

The big kids are back in school and as busy as can be, but what about the little ones still at home with mom or dad? Luckily, the Emerald City is chock-full of classes and programs tailored for tiny tots. So whether you’ve got musical tots, physical tots or experimental tots, we’ve compiled a list of our favorite classes to keep them entertained and develop their growing minds and bodies.

photo: Christine Roulston

Swim Like a Fish

There’s no need to pack up the swimsuits just because summer’s over. Now is the perfect time to give your baby a first taste of swimming or keep the momentum going from your toddler’s summer lessons.

Safe N Sound
This established Seattle company offers private lessons for kids ages 2 & up. Their 15-minute (yes, you read that right!), one-on-one lessons are specially honed to deliver maximum learning and fun for short attention spans. The best part? Parents do not need to be in the water, but are encouraged to watch while kids learn the basics of swimming and water safety. Psst… new swimmers are encouraged to take more than one lesson per week. Half-hour lessons are available by scheduling two 15-minute lessons back-to-back.

Good to know: In addition to the cost of lessons, families pay a monthly membership fee depending on their type of membership.

2040 Westlake Ave. N., Suite 105
Seattle, Wa 98019
206-285-9279
Online: snsswim.com

KinderSwimmer
For those families south and east of Seattle, KinderSwimmer offers locations in Renton, Maple Valley and Spanaway. Classes are offered for kids as young as 3 months and parents join their little fish in the water for singing and activities during the 30-minute classes.

165 Jericho Ave. N.E.
Renton, Wa 98059

23305 Dorre Don Way S.E.
Maple Valley, Wa 98038

402 160th St. S.
Spanaway, Wa 9838

425-271-7946
Online: kinderswimmer.com/washington-register-now

Waterbabies
With a variety of classes including programs for infants, preschoolers and school-aged children, and a variety of locations, Waterbabies has something to suit every little swimmer. Programs are available for newborns as young as 3 months as well as preschoolers and school age children. A child and parent are in the water together during Waterbabies classes and a child is in the water independently during Waterkids classes. Baby and toddler classes involve play-based learning to build confidence and teach water safety for parents and their little ones.

Good to know: Classes are held year-round and are scheduled in quarterly sessions ranging from 7 to 15 weeks (depending on the time of year).

Columbia Athletic Club at Pine Lake
2930 228th Ave. S.E.
Sammamish, Wa 98075
425-313-0123

Columbia Athletic Club at Silver Lake
505 128th St S.E.
Everett, Wa 98208
425-745-1617

Columbia Athletic Club at Juanita Bay
11450 98th Ave. N.E.
Kirkland Wa, 98033
425-821-0882

Bellevue Aquatic Center
601 143rd Ave N.E.
Bellevue, WA 98007
425-452-4444

Online: waterbabiesusa.com

photo: Rachael Brandon

Get Your Groove On

Tap into your little one’s love of music and movement with a dance class specifically crafted for him or her.

Creative Dance Center
A non-profit offering dance education for more than 30 years, the Creative Dance Center provides classes that are multi-sensory, creative and fun. A variety of programs are available for kids as young as 2 months all the way up to unparented creative dance and ballet classes for the pre-K set.

12577 Densmore Ave. N.
Seattle, Wa 98133
206-363-7281
Online: creativedance.org

Evergreen City Ballet
At this Renton studio, kids as young at 20 months can learn the basics of ballet. With caregivers close by, little ones use a variety of fun props for stretching and dancing. Kids also work on coordination, recognizing music and rhythms, counting and timing as well as self-confidence.

Good to know: Once your child reaches age 3 or 4,  he or she can move onto the unparented class. Here, dancers express themselves with scarves, musical instruments, parachutes and more.

2230 Lind Ave. S.W., Suite 109
Renton, Wa 98057
425-228-6800
Online: evergreencityballet.org

photo: Ashley Webb via flickr

Music to Your Ears

Every parent knows the power of music, even with the tiniest newborn. Explore the magic further with one of the many music classes designed specifically for you and your little one – no rhythm required!

Sunshine Music Together
These 45-minute music and movement classes are designed for newborns to 5-year-olds and their caregivers. Activities include songs, rhythmic rhymes, movement and instrument play and all activities are informal and non-performance-oriented. All classes are developmentally appropriate for kids and easy for parents and caregivers.

Good to know: Since these classes are made up of mixed ages, it’s a great activity for families with a pint-sized posse. Second siblings receive a discount and infants under 8 months attend free with a registered sibling.

Queen Anne Studio
2111 1st Ave. W.
Seattle, Wa 98119

Madison Park Graham Visitors Center
2300 Arboretum Dr. E.
Seattle, Wa 98112

Fauntleroy Schoolhouse (West Seattle)
9131 California Ave. S.W.
Seattle, Wa 98136

Fit4Mom (Redmond Town Center)
7303 164th Ave. N.E.
Redmond, Wa 98052

Kennelly Keys Music
4918 196th St. S.W.
Lynnwood, Wa 98036

206-281-1111
Online: sunshinemusictogether.com

Joyous Noise Music
Joyous Noise Music offers Kindermusik, a research-supported curriculum based on music and movement. During class, kids and parents play, sing, dance, giggle and learn together all while stimulating each child’s development.

Good to know: Parented classes are divided based on age and begin with newborns and go up to 3-year-olds. At age 3, kids can take part in a 45-minute independent class. Joyous Noise Music also offers a weekly family music class, perfect for grownups and their kids ranging in age from babies to 5-year-olds, who want to enjoy music together.

Edmonds Community Center – Frances Anderson Center
700 Main St., Rm. 114
Edmonds, Wa 98020

Life Community Church
232 5th Ave. S.
Kirkland, Wa 98033

Redmond Town Center
7430 164th Ave. N.E., Ste B220
Redmond, Wa 98052

EMP Museum
325 5th Avenue N.
Seattle, Wa 98109

Phinney Neighborhood Center
6532 Phinney Avenue N.
Seattle, Wa 98103

Willis Tucker Park Activity Center
6705 Puget Park Dr.
Snohomish, Wa 98296

Backstage Dance Studio
13420 SE 32nd St.
Bellevue, Wa 98005

425-385-3636
Online: joyousnoisestudio.com

Musikgarten
For newborns to 9-year-olds, Musikgarten provides a pathway of music-learning in narrow age groups. During class, kids listen, sing, play instruments and learn to read and write music. In doing so, they also acquire an enormous repertoire of great songs, and eventually play them all on the piano.

3007 22nd Ave. W.
Seattle, Wa 98199

3821 260th Ave. S.E.
Issaquah, Wa 98029

206-285-9516
Online: nwmusikgarten.com

The Musik Nest
The Musik Nest offers Kindermusik, a research-supported curriculum based on music and movement. The classes introduce kids, from newborn to age 5, to the joy and wonder of music. Participants explore, express and discover without pressure to perform.

Good to know: Classes are divided based on age and range from newborn and toddler parented classes to a drop off class designed for ages 3-5.

317 N.W. Juniper St., Suite 50
Issaquah, Wa 98027
425-427-0984
Online: themusiknest.com

photo: Christine Roulston

For Pint-Sized Picassos

Nurture your little one’s love of art (and cut down on the mess at home!) with these art classes that explore all types of art mediums.

Roaring Mouse Creative Arts Studio
This Ravenna studio offers creative arts classes for the 2-and-a-half to 5-year-old set. Kids ages 2-and-a-half to 4 can take part in a special class that involves playfully exploring creativity through a variety of experiences in music, drama and art. At age 4 and 5, your little artist can participate in a unique class designed to prepare and support the pre-kindergarten child.

7526 20th Ave N.E.
Seattle, Wa 98115
206-522-1187
Online: roaringmouse.org

Arts Aloft
Arts Aloft offers preschool art classes for kids ages 4 to pre-k. During these popular classes, kids can get their hands dirty experimenting with different art mediums such clay, plaster, paint and oil pastels while developing their fine motor and creative problem solving skills and building self-esteem.

3302 E. Spring St.
Seattle, Wa 98122
206-920-2015
Online: artsaloftforkids.com/classes.html

Thrive Art School
Interested in picking up on some art techniques yourself? Thrive Art School offers classes for kids ages 3-5 and their parents. Have fun learning together as you create some very special artwork within a supportive environment. Art projects are based on fun and familiar subjects such as animals, people, landscapes and the art masters. The best part? You and your mini-me will get to play, learn and express yourselves with markers, pastels, watercolors, acrylics, chalk, glitter and more.

6329 Ravenna Ave. N.E.
Seattle, Wa 98115

2900 E Madison St., Suite #200
Seattle, Wa 98112

206-522-1659
Online: drawingschool.com

photo: Sponge

Explore Another Language

You already know your mini-me is like a tiny sponge that soaks up everything (good or bad!) you throw his or her way. Why not take advantage of your kiddo’s extra absorbent brain with a fun and engaging language class?

Zoom Language
Through 60- or 75-minute classes, Zoom Language provides Spanish language immersion for kids ages 1 to 10.  Kids learn and practice Spanish grammar and vocabulary through music, creative visual aids and manipulative, sensory and cognitive games. Can you say, “Muy bueno?”

Good to know: Parented classes start at 18 months. At age 3-and-a-half, kids can move on to a drop-off immersion class.

1116 N.W. 54th St.
Seattle, Wa 98107
206-783-5000
Online: zoomlanguage.com

Sponge
In addition to child and caregiver classes for newborns to 4-year-olds, Sponge offers classes for kids ages 3 to 5 who are ready for independent learning. Sponge’s classes focus on practical everyday language with fun units every five weeks. During class, kids play games, participate in crafts, sing and move—all in another language!

Good to know: Kids ages 3-5 can choose from Spanish, Mandarin and French offered in Sponge centers and at day-cares and schools in the greater Seattle area.

3107 S. Day St.
Seattle, Wa 98144

10600 N.E. 68th St., Suite A
Kirkland, Wa 98033

4114 198th Street S.W., Suite 3
Lynnwood, Wa 98036

206-227-7138
Online: spongeschool.com

Polly-Glot-Tots
Did you know a polly-glot is a person who speaks three or more languages? While mastering three might seem a lofty goal, you can start by exposing your little one to at least one new language at Polly-Glot-Tots. Their lively immersion classes are offered in French, Spanish and Mandarin and they integrate play, music, movement and art to engage little ones and connect the foreign sounds and words to everyday items and activities. Classes are designed for kids ages 1 to 5 with a guardian.

North Kirkland Community Center
12421 103rd Ave. N.E.
Kirkland, Wa 98034

Phinney Neighborhood Center
6532 Phinney Ave. N.
Seattle, Wa 98103

206-861-9698
Online: pollyglottots.com

photo: Stroum Jewish Community Center

Other Classes to Try

If you’re looking for even more classes for you and your toddler to try, the Seattle Children’s Theatre offers classes for thespians as young as age 4; Frog Legs Culinary Academy serves up seasonal cooking classes for kids starting at age 3; Woodland Park Zoo offers early childhood programs for you and your little critter (ages newborn to 5); Stroum Jewish Community Center welcomes all families – Jewish and non-Jewish – and offers a variety of enrichment classes for ages 2-5; and Sweet Pea Cottage provides classes starting at 3 months of age that tap into baby’s curiosity about music, and provide other means of expressing emotions with baby sign language. For active kids, Arena Sports offers Lil’ Kickers soccer classes for kids as young as 18 months and the Seattle Gymnastics Academy offers classes for kids as young as 6 months. The Seattle Parks and Recreation also provides programs for little ones in everything from martial arts and cooking to swimming and art.

Note: Many of the classes mentioned above offer a free trial session, so you can try before you commit—another reason to get out and explore Seattle’s toddler scene!

Does your little one have a favorite class or program? Tell us about it in the Comments below.

— Christine Roulston

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Coming Soon: A New Bilingual Kid’s Album (That You Will Love, Too)

by rtcarolynross

Arriba Abajo, the upcoming bilingual children’s album from Reston, Virginia based musician, Andrés Salguero, is full of lessons and love for the natural world, from birds in the trees to the seeds in the ground, all with the wondrous goal of celebrating the never-ending curiosity of young children.

Whether playing to audiences on Capitol Hill for Boogie Babes weekday music series, or Bebés al Parque in his native Bogotá Colombia, ¡Uno Dos Tres Andrés!, as he is known around town, is all about the joy exposure to music  brings children and families.  You really can’t go wrong when you bring your little salsa sensation to see this performer whose hit song from his debut Latin GRAMMY nominated album involves jumping up and down (¡Salta, Salta!), and who doesn’t shy away from writing about realities of life for a Mommy and Daddy who are farm workers (Daddy was a Migrant Worker).

The June 10 release of Arriba Abajo (Up and Down) is the product of a collaboration with a pre-school educator, and draws on Salguero’s own background, including a doctoral degree in music.  Connecting the music to curriculum for young children, the songs are an effective and joyful springboard for bilingual learning concepts like Spanish vowels, and how a tree grows from a seed.

With an interactive kid-centric approach to learning about Latin music, cultures, and countries, Salguero engages young listeners with multi-layered rhythms that introduce them to new sounds, movement and the importance of expressing themselves.  Incorporating a language lesson, dance, and a little geography, he frequently collaborates with percussionists, dance studios, and puppeteers to bring a texture to his performances that is not lost, even on the recording.

See ¡Uno Dos Tres Andrés! perform next for Rockville’s Hometown Holidays, 3:30 PM, Saturday May 28 at the Town Center Stage, or keep up with his schedule of live shows at another  DMV venue near you.

Read a little more about Salguero’s D.C. area connection and get a free download of Arriba Abajo’s first single, Dame Una A, exclusive to Red Tricycle readers.

What are some of your favorite things to do in the D.C. area?
I like to spend time outside, and there are so many beautiful areas, even just right close by to me, like Lake Anne in Reston. It is great to see all the families and be a part of whatever is happening around the lake.

We also love to go to see all the performances in D.C., especially the free Millenium Stage shows at the Kennedy Center which make music and other performance available to everyone. For me that is still such a big highlight, when I was invited to play the stage there, and just a great memory of my time here.

What else have you done in the D.C. area with other musicians and where else will you collaborate?
I enjoy finding performance opportunities and working with other performers as much as I can.  We did a Saturday morning series called D.C. Fiesta for families at El Tamarindo restuarant in Northwest D.C. and I have continued to perform and recruit other kids music artists at Bloombars in Columbia Heights. Next month I will play at a Sing-a-Long with Lloyd Miller of the Deedle Dees in Brooklyn, New York and I am excited to join forces with Sonia De los Santos who also sings about her Latin heritage at the Jalopy Theater in Brooklyn.  Next I will join Little Miss Ann for a show in Chicago!

Have you seen ¡Uno Dos Tres Andrés! perform live? Tell us about it in the comments section below. 

–Carolyn Ross

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Enroll This Kid in Ballet, STAT

by Red Tricycle

An adorable boy from Amsterdam was caught practicing some pliés while watching the young dancers inside a ballet studio. In a video posted by New Dance Studios, you can see the boy imitating the moves and wanting to be the next, best, ballerino. With over four million views on Facebook, it’s clear this tiny dancer is on point(e).

Photo & video courtesy of New Dance Studios via Facebook

Do you have a dancer in the family? Tell us in the comments below!

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Bust a Move: NYC Hip-Hop Dance Classes for Kids

by angela johnson-archer

New York City is known around the world as the birthplace of hip-hop. From the Boogie-Down Bronx to Crooklyn, New York has dope beats coming out of every borough. But what used to be considered an underground culture born on the streets, is now majorly mainstream. Proof?: The city that reveres Biggie and the Beastie Boys as much as the Statue of Liberty is full of places where kids as young as four (!) can learn the freshest hip-hop dance moves. We’ve rounded up just a few of our favorites here; click through to ch-check it out.

photo: Hip-Hop 4 Kids at the Ailey Extension. Photo by Joe Epstein

Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater
The world-renowned Alvin Ailey Dance Theater offers Hip-Hop 4 Kids to little ones, ages 7-11. Get funky with experienced teachers who will guide your tiny dancers through basic hip-hop moves, focusing on alignment, technique and most importantly, fun.

Cost: $435; Sept 13, 2015 – Dec. 20, 2015

405 W. 55th St.
212-405-9000
Midtown
Online: alvinailey.org

Brooklyn Arts Exchange
Kids ages 10-13 will learn all of the basics of hip-hop dance, including power moves, popping, freezing and crumping to the latest hip-hop and pop music at this Park Slope cultural center. Dancers will be encouraged to come up with their own funky dance sequences based on their knowledge of the basics. Tuition assistance is available.

Cost: $358, Sept. 30, 2015-Jan. 30, 2016
421 Fifth Ave.
718-832-0018
Park Slope
Online: bax.org

Mark Morris Dance Center
Brooklyn is holding its own as a cultural mecca. The Mark Morris Dance Group, located in Downtown Brooklyn, has helped put the borough on the map. Its Dance Center offers classes for young dancers ages 6 – 18, including Jazz/Hip-hop fusion and Breakdance Basics. Students learn hip-hop fundamentals as well as the elements of safety while performing.

Cost: $470; Sept. 16, 2015 – Jan. 1, 2016
3 Lafayette Ave.
718-624-8400
Fort Greene

Online: markmorrisdancegroup.org

photo: via Downtown Dance Factory Facebook page

Downtown Dance Factory
This TriBeCa studio was founded by two local moms who had a desire to offer fun and creative classes that would allow young people to express themselves through music. Kindihop, geared towards preschoolers ages 3-5, teaches the basics of jazz and hip-hop technique to the funkiest beats. Got a budding B-boy? Kindiboys teaches the fundamentals of b-boying including footwork to preschoolers. Once they’ve perfected their B-boy stance, DDF offers Jazz/Hip-hop fusion and Street Hip-hop classes for kids in grades K – 8.

Cost: $750; Sept. 16, 2015 – Feb. 1, 2016

291 Broadway, 5th Fl.
212-962-1800
Tribeca
Online: downtowndancefactory.com

American Youth Dance Theater
To say that hip-hop dance involves fast-paced, intricate steps is an understatement. Classes at this Upper East Side dance studio focus on helping kids ages 4 and up build the strength and endurance they need to keep up with the choreography. Experienced teachers work with students on learning hip-hop style and technique in a fun and creative way. Students have a chance to showcase their work at the school’s annual holiday and spring recitals.

Cost: $673; Sept 8, 2015 – Jan. 30, 2016

428 E. 75th St.
212-717-5419
Upper East Side
Online: americanyouthdancetheater.com

photo: JCC

JCC
Hip-hop is in high demand on the Upper West side the the JCC! Kids as young as four and as old as nine learn the basics, as well as strengthening exercises and choreography, while gaining coordination, body awareness, teamwork skills and more. A final show caps off every semester.

Cost: $550/members; $705/public; Sept 9, 2015-Jan. 13, 2016

334 Amsterdam Ave. at 76th St.
Upper West Side
646-505-4444
Online: jccmanhattan.org/programs

92nd Street Y
For over 100 years, the 92nd Street Y has given some of the best artists a platform to showcase their work. Today, students ages 6 and up can study hip-hop technique as they learn to create their own basic choreography. The budding B-boys and girls get to show off their best moves in a final performance showcase. Older dancers (ages 12-18) can audition for the Fresh Y Crew, a Jazz/Hip-Hop performing group.

Cost: Cost and dates vary by class; see website for details.

1395 Lexington Ave.
Upper East Side
212-415-5500
Online: 92y.org

photo: via Soul Arts Academy Facebook page

Soul Arts Academy
Old school is cool at Soul Arts Academy! This downtown studio prides itself on giving students a well-rounded dance education. Students ages 6-13 learn about the history of this creative form of dance, building a foundation of basic moves that they then transform into more complex series of steps.

Cost: $595; Sept. 16, 2015-Jan. 25, 2016

552 Broadway
212-254-0454
Manhattan
Online: soulartsacademy.com

photo: Lotus Creations

Lotus Creations
One of the goals of non-profit performing arts organization Lotus Creations is to offer affordable dance instruction to all who wish to learn. Drop-in youth hip-hop classes, for kids ages 7-11 are offered for $10 every Saturday from 5:30-6:30 p.m. in Fort Greene, Brooklyn. If your kids gets really good, he or she could be invited to be part of the organization’s Traveling Lotus Youth Group which performs throughout the city.

Cost: $10/class with discounts for bulk lesson purchases; Sept. 19-Dec. 19

143 Waverly Ave.
Trilok Fusion Center for the Arts
Fort Greene
646-751-7705
Online: lotuswecreate.org

Queens Dance Project
Hip-hop pioneers LLCoolJ and Run DMC hail from Queens, so this borough takes the art form very seriously. Weekly classes are available for kids beginning at age 4, and give them an education in the fundamentals of hip-hop dance. Don’t be surprised if your kids ask you for a pair of Adidas and a Kangol hat when they’re done!

214-26 41st Ave.
718-229-1133
Bayside
Online: queensdanceproject.com

Does your child take hip-hop in the city? Tell us where in the comments below!

—Angela Johnson-Archer

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Beyond Ballet: 5 Alternate Dance Classes for Atlanta’s Small Set

by Phebe Wahl

So they think they can dance? If you are looking for something beyond the barre, read on for five alternate dance classes where kids can get their groove on.

Children’s Jazz/ Hip-Hop
Studio Dionne is a well-known and much loved studio that offers a variety of dance classes for kiddos from the age of 2½ and up. Here you will find dance classes in all sorts of varieties: ballet, modern, tap and even musical theater. Check out the Jazz and Hip-hop combo where kiddos (7 and up) will be busting a move with a mix of African, Latin, hip-hop and jazz styles!

The Inside Scoop
If one of your tots is more of a singer and a strummer then a mover and a groover, Studio Dionne has plenty of music classes to explore, too!

524 Plasters Avenue, www.studiodionne.com

Athletic Movement for Boys
Have a little boy who loves to dance, but scoffs at the idea of tutus and pink shoes? Well, this class at Good Moves Dance Studio was specially designed for boys! This one combines athletic training with the creative nature of dance. Perfect for developing strength, discipline, fostering creativity and, of course, introducing dance.

The Inside Scoop
Tucked away in Inman Park, Good Moves is not just a dance studio, but a non-profit dance organization on a mission to bring dance to individuals and communities. This unique program introduces your kiddo not just to dance, but to a creative community of artists.

1015 Edgewood Ave NE, www.goodmoves.org 

Ballroom and Latin for Kids
Does your tot have the ballroom bug? Look no further then Academy Ballroom’s kids classes. Offered several times a week, this vibrant studio teaches that there is more to Ballroom and Latin classes than lots of spins and sequence. We’ve all heard that dance develops strength, coordination and confidence, but Ballroom dance has the added bonus of teaching tots a skill they can show off for a lifetime.

The Inside Scoop
Remember all those weddings and special events where you were begrudging the fact you never learned to slow dance beyond the “hold and sway”? Sign your little ones up now, and they’ll give you a big thank you later!

800 Miami Circle, Suite 140, www.academyballroomatl.com

Acrobatic Dance
Does your kiddo crave cartwheels? The Acrobatic Dance class offered at Foot Notes Dance Studio may be perfect for your tiny dancer. Recall those super fun floor routines during the Olympics? This is similar! It is a high energy performing art that focusses on basic tumbling and movement.  Kiddos can start as early as age 4 and beginners are welcome.

The Inside Scoop
Parents can’t say enough good things about the instructors here. The words, warm, friendly and family are thrown about freely. Foot Notes is well worth checking out, especially if your little one is on the shy side.

2500 Old Alabama Road, Roswell, www.footnotesdance.net

Creative Movement
Tap, ballet, or jazz? Not sure? Sometimes the tiniest twinkle toes just need to get grooving. Enter the Dan & Company studios and their Creative Movement class.  Designed for 3 and 4 years old, this class is all about movement and fun. No pressure here, just a relaxed place for your little one to let go and twirl around with scarfs and lummi sticks. Kiddos will get the chance to perform in one recital, and get this—the costumes are provided!

The Inside Scoop
If your little one loves to boogie, why not consider a dance themed birthday party? Dan & Company studios put on fun and original birthday parties. Parties last two hours, with two dance instructors and of course, tons of music and dance.

5523 Chamblee-Dunwoody Rd, Dunwoody, www.danandcompany.com

These classes not a fit? Click here for our list of other ballet and dance studios we love for the littles, or here some spots where they can learn an Irish jig!

—Candice Rose

Photos courtesy of Good Moves, Studio Dionne, and Footnotes Dance Studio via Facebook, kellyv and KCBalletMedia on Creative Commons via Flickr

 

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Los Angeles Totally Awesome Awards Winners Are…

by Erin Lem

Congratulations to the below Los Angeles businesses who are the local winners of the 2011 Totally Awesome Awards!

— Purple Twig: Art Classes

— Juvenile Shop: Baby Boutiques

— Gloria’s Cake & Candy Supplies: Birthday Party Supply Stores

— Lollipop Dream: Birthday Party Venues

— The Grilled Cheese Truck: Cheap or Free Eats for Kids

— VIP Nannies & Household Staffing: Childcare Agencies and Resources

— Inch by Inch Children’s Resale: Consignment Retail Shops

— Gloria’s Cake & Candy Supplies: Cupcakes, Bakeries, and CandyShops

— Gotta Dance Studio: Dance, Movement, and Theater Classes

— Derby Dolls: Date Night Spots

— VIP Nannies: Drop Off and Childcare Spots

— Dr Michelle DDS & Dr. Michelle To: Family Dentists

— Razi Wilson Photography: Family Photographers

— Menchies: Ice Cream and FroYo

— The Awesome Playground: Indoor Playspaces

— Tifa Chocolate: Kid Friendly Coffee Shops

— Fresh Brothers: Kid Friendly Restaurants and Cafes

— The Green Bean: Kids Clothing Retail Stores

— Mod Mom Furniture: Furniture and Gear Stores

— The Yellow Balloon in Studio City: Kids Hair Cuts

— Lango: Language Classes

— Guncles Online: Local Blogs

— 2 chix Maternity & Baby: Maternity Stores

— Ana Paula Markel of Bini Birth: Midwives and Doulas

— Caryn Antonini (Early Lingo): Mom Run Businesses

— Bust It Bootcamp by Fit Happens L.A.: Mom’s Fitness Programs

— WLAPOM (West LA Parents Of Multiples): Mom’s Groups

— Discovery Science Center: Museums

— Little Movers and Shakers: Music Classes

— Echo Parenting: Parent Education Programs

— Cedars-Sinai: Places to Give Birth

— The Little Preschool: Schools

— The Water Whisperer: Sports and Fitness Classes

— Scribble Press: Toy Shops and Book Stores

Totally Awesome Stuff Winners:

— Tiny Prints: Announcement, Birthday & Holiday Cards Suppliers

— Clementine Art Supplies: Art Supplies

— Manny and Simon: Au-Natural Toys

— 4Moms Mamaroo: Baby Stage Must Haves

— Yikes Twins Hooded Towels: Bath Toys

— Baby DeeDee Sleep Nest: Bedding, Accessories and Room Decors

— LEGOLAND California: Big Amusement Theme Parks

— Wishbone Bike: Bikes, Trikes, Scooters, and Movers

— Zoku Popsicle Maker: Can’t Live Without Kitchen Gadgets

— Orbit Baby: Car Seats

— City Threads: Clothing and Fashion Lines for Boys

— Nohi Kids: Clothing and Fashion Lines for Girls

— PetitNest: Coolest Cribs and Beds

— Ju-Ju-Be: Diaper Bags and Backpacks

— Eebee’s Adventures: Educational Toys

— Great Wolf Lodge: Family Resorts and Hotels

— Great Wolf Lodge: Family Water Parks

— SweetSeat: Feeding Supplies

— Itzy Ritzy Snack Happened Bags: Green Kids Products

— Ella’s Kitchen: Healthy Snacks

— Piggy Back Rider: Kid Carriers and Slings

— Alphabet Rockers: Kids Music and Artists

— Hanna Andersson: Kids Pajamas

— See Kai Run: Kids Shoes

— My True Nature: Kids Skincare Products

— Travel Tot: Kids Travel Accessories

— Playland-Not-at-the-Beach: Little Amusement Theme Parks

— Easy Lunch Boxes: Lunch Gear

— More of Me: Maternity Fashion or Products

— ThredUP: New Way to Consign, Swap and Recycle

— Yummy Spoonfuls: On The Go Prepared Meals

— MoonJar Savings Bank: Preschooler Age Must Haves

— Bow Allure: Rainwear, Hats, and Other Accessories

— Squaw Valley USA: Ski Schools and Programs

— Orbit Baby: Strollers

— Dapper Snappers: Toddler Years Must Haves

— Basic Grey Storage Barrels: Toy Storage and Organizers

— Springfree Trampoline: Toys and Gear For Backyard Fun

— Monterey Bay Aquarium: Zoo and Animal Parks

Totally Awesome Online Winners:

— LilSugar: Celebrity Baby Site

— Parents Connect: Community Posting Board Sites

— Deals4Dummies: Coupon and Saving Sites

— Mamabargains: Deal Sites

— Fooz Kids: Family and Kids Apps / Games

— A Little Yumminess: Food and Recipe Sites

— In The Know Mom: Gear and Product Review Sites

— DrGreene: Medical Advice Sites

— Chic & Cheap Nursery: Nursery and Decor Sites

— It’s a Preemie Thing: Online Shopping Sites

— Happy Healthy Mom: Parenting Advice Sites

— Guncles Online: Parenting Blogger Sites

— BabyCenter: Pregnancy Sites

— Poshbrood: Travel and Vacation Sites

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