Early Childhood Program: Ages 5-8
This is such a fun age. This is a time when dancers really progress and soak in all they learn each week. It’s an exciting time! We hope the below will help guide you, but as always please email info@dreamsdance.com if you're looking for class suggestions for your dancer and their specific goals and interests. We are here to help!
My child is age 5-8 and new to dance
Dancers choose from combo classes (example Jazz/Tap or Ballet/Lyrical) for ages 5-8 or level 1. If age 5, we strongly encourage to wait until age 6 for level 1 and take combo classes until then.
Combo classes are a great option for our new and/or young dancers, and have become very popular the last few years. Dancers age 5 can also take our Pre-School classes if they are new to dance. It is a great segway into the Early Childhood program!
My child is 5 and took at least one DDA Pre-School level class
Dancers age 5 are now ready to move to a combo class for ages 5-8 OR level 1.* Some dancers even do one of each - example: Ballet/Lyrical and Jazz/Tap. This way, they get in FOUR styles in just two classes.
*If age 5, we strongly encourage to wait until age 6 to take a level 1 (take combo classes until then).
My child is age 5-8 and is a current DDA student
If they are currently in level 1 or higher, you will receive written notice from the studio if and when they are ready to move up a level. Every dancer progresses at a different pace.
If they've been in an age 5-8 combo class for one full year, they should be ready for level 1 if age 6, or level 2 if age 7 or older. Please confirm with the studio.
My child is ages 5-8 and in Dance Company
Dancers follow the same criteria as above. But also please see our "Intensive Dancer" page as well as your Company class requirements.
Musical Theater and Poms are non-leveled classes and great options for this age, too! Adding a Flex & Stretch class is always a plus. Still stuck on what to enroll in? Please email us at info@dreamsdance.com for class suggestions that best suit your dancer and their goals.
Our instructors follow the same Class Curriculum (Pre-School through Level 7) to ensure accuracy and consistency throughout our program. To move to a level 2 or higher, dancers must have certain skills and technique mastered. When they are ready, a notice will come in written form from the studio.
Ballet/Lyrical
Ballet: Focuses on overall body alignment and awareness with emphasis on proper usage of feet and legs and execution of turnout. Barre and center work, along with combinations. Ballet shoes are required.
Lyrical: Lyrical is a fusion of ballet and jazz technique, that utilizes slow fluid movements to interpret music and express emotion while telling a story through the art of dance. Should have at least one year of ballet or jazz training before starting.
Poms
Non-leveled class. Ages 5 and up.
Poms: From pom routines to kick-lines, this has been an exciting addition to DDA! An additional cost of $12 for pink poms (yours to keep).
Jazz/Hip Hop
Jazz: Full of rhythm, jazz dance brings energy and life to dance. Explore body isolations of the head, shoulders, rib cage, feet and arms, which encouraging individual expression and personal style! Jazz shoes are required.
Hip Hop: .
Level 1 - 3
Jazz, Tap, Ballet, Hip Hop, and Musical Theater:
Dancers age 5 - 8 typically take AT LEAST one full year of level 1, 2, or 3 classes (3 sessions) depending on age and progression.
See individual dance descriptions on
"Classes Offered" page.
_edited.jpg)
Jazz/Tap
Jazz: Full of rhythm, jazz dance brings energy and life to dance. Explore body isolations of the head, shoulders, rib cage, feet and arms, which encouraging individual expression and personal style! Jazz shoes are required.
Tap: Make some noise! Tap teaches rhythm and coordination with sound, and kids will learn basic tap terminology and choreography. Tap shoes are required.
Musical Theater
Non-leveled class. Ages 5 and up.