Our programs for young children are specially designed to provide children between three and five years of age with a strong foundation in dance and movement. It teaches the younger dancer the basic elements of movement and dance: space and how we relate it, both as an individual and as a member of a group; the eight basic locomotor movements; musical rhythm, beat and time opposites and directions; some elementary positions of ballet. Integrated with these physical concepts are the intellectual concepts of self-awareness, creative expression, imagination, teamwork and basic body/health awareness.

Through participation in these classes, students also learn the basics of classroom behavior and manners, which remain the same throughout their dancing years. These concepts include learning how to take turns, follow another dancer or leading the way, waiting patiently, working together with others and having a positive attitude.

Educators now know that training young children in the concepts of movement sequencing, patterning and special relationships lay a strong foundation for the later development of reading, mathematics, and other educational skills. Students in our programs for young children work actively in all these areas.

Classes for the Very Young Ballet, Tap, Jazz, Hip-Hop

3 year olds (Tiny Tots):
A Creative movement program introducing 3 year olds to the studio and a class environment. Children learn co-ordination and rhythm through music and mime. This class runs one half hour per week in six week intervals, giving students and parents the option of attending 1, 2, or 3 sessions per year

4 year olds (Dance Creations):
A combination class of Ballet, Jazz, Pre-Tap and Tumbling. This is a 45 minute, fun-filled class where children learn the basics of Ballet, Jazz, and Tap, through music, mime and imagination. This class will participate in our year end recital.

5 year olds (Pre-Primary, combination):
A one hour combination class with a 30 minute focus on Ballet and the remaining 30 minutes on Jazz and Pre-Tap. At a young age these three styles complement each other, enhancing co-ordination and musicality. The Ballet portion is based on the Royal   Academy of Dance Pre-Primary syllabus. This class will participate in our year end recital.

ALSD is excited to once again be offering the new R.A.D. Pre-Primary and Primary syllabus. The new syllabus is relevant to young children today. It helps develop physical skills stamina, creativity, expression and musicality, using a range of sounds and musical styles. A lot of care and thought has gone into creating this exciting syllabus. The children absolutely love it!

6 year olds (a variety of classes are offered for 6 years and older):

As Ballet is the foundation of all dance, it is advisable to continue with your ballet along with your other dance disciplines. 6 year olds Primary Ballet/Jazz:(recommended). This class is one hour in length. The first 45 minutes is spent on the Royal Academy of Dance Primary Syllabus and the last 15 minutes on Jazz. This is the recommended class for this age. This class will participate in our year end recital.

6 years and older Beginner Tap:
This is a 45 minute class focusing on basic tap technique. It is a great rhythmical class , learning the basics of Tap Dancing as set out By the Canadian Dance Teachers Association. (See CDTA Website)

Hip Hop for 5, 6 and 7 year olds (Wee Cool):
High energy , 45 minutes of dance. Students are taught the latest hip-hop steps. (Music and moves are age appropriate).

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