September is here! Many Vancouver mamas are starting to think about activities for their little ones this fall. One great option – for girls and for boys – is dance classes. Little kids love music and they love to move their bodies. For toddlers and preschoolers dancing is a way to play, a way to learn, a way to be active and a way to make friends. Plus, children’s dance clothes are adorable. If you’re on the hunt for Vancouver dance classes for your under five year old, here are some great options to check out.
Vancouver Dance Classes for Little Ones
Arts Umbrella
Arts Umbrella’s early learning dance classes are geared to kids aged two to six years old. With locations on Granville Island and Surrey, they cater to both urban and suburban mamas in search of Vancouver dance classes for their little ones. You’ll find creative dance and imagination through movement classes to get your kids moving. When they’re older, they can move into their more structured dance programs.
www.artsumbrella.com/programs/early-learning/dance
Gabriela’s Movement Studio
Located in Richmond, Gabriela offers ballet classes for three to eight year olds and creative movement programs for two to six year olds. With more than 25 years experience teaching, she specializes in toddlers, preschoolers and young children. She also does some teaching in daycares and preschools. If you’re looking for Metro Vancouver dance classes really geared to little ones, this may be just the ticket.
The Landing Dance Centre
For a more professional, structured take on Vancouver dance classes check out The Landing on SW Marine Drive. Started in 2008, they have a mandate to “provide a safe, creative and non-judgmental environment for young, aspiring dancers”. Their pre-primary program for three and four year olds is geared at kids who “just need to move”. There’s a ballet/tap combo and hip hop. Their offerings include semi-professional programs, so if your child really takes to dance they can grow at The Landing.
Rogue Dance
You’ll find a warm, open and inviting approach to Vancouver dance classes for preschoolers at Rogue Dance on the Drive. Started by a mom of two, they offer ballet for kids starting at two and a half years old and creative dance for kids starting at age three. They also offer a variety of Vancouver dance classes for older children, so your kids can continue if they like the studio.
Roundhouse Community Centre
You can find a wide range of Vancouver dance classes aimed at toddlers and preschoolers, and even babies, at city-run community centres. Roundhouse Community Centre is one that stands out. Right now you can find baby and me and toddler and me classes, acrobatic dance classes for preschoolers, ballet, hip hop and more at the centre in Yaletown. There are both registered classes and drop-in options, so your little one can try Vancouver dance classes without the commitment.
roundhouse.ca/programs/infant-preschool
For more about dancing in Vancouver, including a list of community centres with dance studios, visit: vancouver.ca/parks-recreation-culture/dancing.aspx