How to Choose the Right Dance Class for Your Child

Maggie Collum
Aug 18
2 min read

Enrolling your child in dance is an exciting milestone—but with so many styles, age groups, and class names to choose from, how do you know which one is the right fit?

At MC Dance, we’re here to make the decision easy and joyful for you and your dancer. Whether you’re brand new to the world of dance or just unsure where to begin, here’s a simple guide to help you choose the best class for your child.

👶 1. Start With Their Age

Dance classes are carefully designed around developmental stages. We group our classes by both age and ability to ensure every child feels successful, safe, and inspired.

Ages 2–3: Our Tiny Tots classes introduce basic movement, rhythm, and following directions through fun and play.
Ages 3–5: Preschool Ballet & Tap offers structure, creativity, and the joy of dancing like a ballerina while learning foundational skills.
Ages 5–7: Combo classes like Ballet/Jazz or Tap/Jazz are perfect for exploring new styles and building coordination.
Ages 7+ and up: Classes begin to break into style-specific levels (Jazz, Ballet, Hip-Hop, Lyrical, Acro), and we help guide families to match their dancer’s goals and interest level.

💡 Not sure which class is the right level? We’re happy to help you place your dancer!

💃 2. Consider Your Child’s Personality

Some kids are natural performers—others are more reserved. That’s okay! Dance is for everyone.

Does your child love music and movement? Start with Jazz or Hip-Hop.
Do they love telling stories and expressing emotions? Try Lyrical or Contemporary.
Do they prefer graceful movements or classic technique? Ballet is a beautiful foundation.
Are they energetic and daring? Acro might be their perfect outlet.

🎯 3. Define Your Family’s Goals

Is your child trying dance for the first time? Are they looking for a fun weekly activity or considering something more performance-based or competitive?

For casual dancers, once-a-week recreational classes are great.
For more serious dancers, add-on technique classes like Leaps & Turns or Competition Team programs might be the next step.

✨ Not ready to commit? We offer FREE trial classes and seasonal mini-camps so your dancer can try before you decide!

👉 Click here to try a class

⏳ 4. Give It Time

Kids under 8 often need more than one class to decide if they enjoy something. That’s why we recommend giving young dancers at least 6 weeks of consistent attendance before making a decision.

Even if they’re shy or unsure at first, most dancers warm up to the structure, the friends, and the fun as the weeks go on!

❤️ 5. Ask for Help!

Our team at MC Dance is here to walk this journey with you. We’ll answer your questions, recommend the best fit for your child, and support your family every step of the way.

📧 Email us anytime at info@mcdanceco.com

📱 Or stop by our front desk to chat in person!