First Steps: Dance Classes
for 1-6 years
Our Summer 2026 First Steps Schedule
Enroll Now! or Try a Free Trial Class
Baby Bop - 1-2 yrs. and Parent
The 1 - 2 yrs Parent/Tot program (Baby Bop) is designed with the specific needs of a 1-2 yr old Toddler in mind so we can Play and Learn!. For that reason our class will use the Caregiver to help us orient their child through the structured and guided activities while at the same time encouraging the child’s natural movement. Fine and gross motor skills are developed along with social skill development through the use of music, tumbling, obstacle courses, dance, parachute play, bubbles and more! Boppin' Babies is the perfect transition for your child!
DANCE with ME - 2 yrs. and Parent
Parent/Tot program is designed with the specific needs of a 2 year old in mind. For that reason our class will use the Caregiver to help us orient their child to the workings of a classroom while at the same time encouraging the child’s natural movement. Fine and gross motor skills are developed through the use of music, dance and sometimes their favorite obstacle courses. The amount of growth seen in each child by years end is truly amazing. When each child is ready, and no longer needs the aid of the Caregiver, we will encourage a cross over to an independent Tiny Dancers or Pre-Ballet & Tumble Class. If the class as a whole is ready after a 5-6 Wk Session our teachers and assistants will be able to work with just the children and transition the entire class to an independent Pre-Ballet & Tumble Class.
Tiny Dancers - 2 1/2 - 3 1/2 yrs.
Our first independent dance classes for infants! Full of creative movement, physical exploration, and “let’s make believe” TINY Dancers makes learning to dance fun! Classes will begin to focus attention, improve physical awareness, use imagery and props to engage imaginations (Tutus, Tiara's, Magic Wands.....) and introduce elemental Ballet concepts and gross motor skill movements! DEDA’s “First Steps” toward independence! Tiny Dancers perform in the end of the year Dance Concert!
Pre-Ballet - 3-5 yrs.
Introduction to the wonderful world of dance! Dancers will be introduced to basic Ballet vocabulary and explore creative movement and gross motor skill movements, musicality and qualities of movement and follow a dance class format. Classes engage the dancers attention with the use of imagery and props, varieties of music and "make believe" and we can dance!
Hip Tots - 3-5 yrs.
Introduction to the wonderful world of dance with a bit of funk! Lots of gross motor skill and rhythmic work fill this class with fun. Jumps, Hops, Bops, and Cookie Walks, Bounces and Poses along with traditional elements of a first year dance class (following a class format, body awareness, stretching, etc). Like any early dance class, great for focus, fitness and fun! Great for Boys and Girls. HIP- TOTS perform in the end of the year Dance Concert!
Tumblin' Tots - 3-5 yrs
Tumblin' Tots introduces our preschoolers to Acro-Tumble Dance primary skills. These skills include basics for flexibility (butterfly, straddle, forward bend and cobra), Strength (plank, tabletops, walks and jumps), Balancing Skills (passe' balance, releve, mini balance beam, hopping) Limbering Skills (balls pose, baby bridge, pike, tuck) and Tumbling Skills (Forward roll, pre-cartwheel, gallops, prep jumps) along with creative movement and lots of fun obstacle courses!
TAP N' BALLET
Our “First Steps” class which combines Ballet Technique and Vocabulary with the introduction to Tap. Combinations of steps, coordination of arms and feet and short movement patterns are introduced in both the Ballet and Tap segments of the class. Focus and Fun are both emphasized and dancers begin to retain dance vocabulary, patterns and pictures. Foundation Class for Elementary Ballet or Tap Classes. Tap N' Ballet Dancers perform in the end of the year Dance Concert!
Kids Bop - 5-7 yrs.
Introduction to Hip Hop! Fun, funky, high energy class combines basic rhythmic steps and body levels with arm movements to create an aerobic dance class. Focus and Fun, along with coordination are emphasized as dancers learn to combine movements and remember spatial patterns. Great for Boys and Girls! Kids Bop Dancers perform in the end of the year Dance Concert.
ACRO Tumble Dance I/II - 5-7 yrs.
Introduction to Acro-Tumbling and Jazz! Basic introduction to Fun, high energy Jazz Style dance class AND Acrobatic Arts Intro to Tumbling including Flexibility, Balance, Jumps, Rolls, Bridges and Cartwheels! Jazz segment combines rhythmic steps, body levels, isolations and arm movements to create a faster paced class to keep students moving. Focus and Fun, along with coordination are emphasized as dancers learn to combine movements, extend their body lines and remember spatial patterns. Great for Boys and Girls! Acro-Jazz Dancers perform in the end of the year Dance Concert.
Hip Hop
High Energy, rhythmic movement style including funk, popping, street styles and self-expression. Focus and Fun, along with coordination are emphasized as dancers learn to combine more complex movements and remember spatial patterns. Great for Boys and Girls! Hip Hop Dancers perform in the end of the year Dance Concert.
Frequently Asked Questions
What can my child expect in their first dance class?
In our dance classes for infants, children will engage in creative movement activities designed to introduce dance basics. Our instructors use fun props and playful imagery to make learning enjoyable while helping kids feel comfortable in the class setting.
How does Dance Expression ensure age-appropriate learning?
Our First Steps Program is segmented by age and skill, so each class is tailored to the physical and cognitive development of that group, from basic movements for toddlers to more structured routines for older children.
What skills beyond dance do children develop in this program?
Apart from dance skills, children gain social abilities, including teamwork, patience, and focus. They also enhance motor skills, flexibility, body awareness, and self-confidence, which benefit them in all areas of life.
How are trial classes conducted, and what do they involve?
Trial classes offer a glimpse into our structured sessions, allowing children to explore dance basics in a friendly, low-pressure setting. It’s an ideal way for families to assess if Dance Expression is the right fit for their child.
What type of attire should children wear to First Steps classes?
At our dance classes for infants, comfortable clothing is recommended to allow ease of movement. Ballet shoes are preferred for ballet classes, while other styles can be done in comfortable, well-fitted sneakers or bare feet. Specific attire requirements will be shared upon enrollment.
Is previous dance experience required for the First Steps Program?
No prior experience is needed. The program is designed to introduce dance to beginners in a supportive environment, building a foundation that grows as they progress through each level.
Will my child have the chance to perform in front of an audience?
Yes, all children in the First Steps Program can participate in our end-of-year Dance Concert, where they showcase the skills they’ve developed. It’s a memorable event for families and helps children gain confidence in performing.
How does the program cater to children with different learning styles?
We incorporate various teaching methods, such as visual demonstrations, music, and props, to engage children in different ways, ensuring each child feels included and excited about learning.
What kind of support is available for children who are shy or hesitant?
Our nurturing teachers are experienced in helping children of all temperaments feel at ease. They provide gentle encouragement and make the class environment fun and welcoming to gradually build confidence.