Kids can start ballet classes as young as 3 years old although many dance schools offer

General dance classes for kids as young as 2 (often called “Tiny Tots”). Ballet classes for kids are often called classical, classical ballet or fairy ballet and range in the level of adherence to traditional ballet technique.

There are physical, emotional, social and psychological benefits associated with learning ballet including posture, self confidence, grace, poise, co-ordination and core strength for boys and girls. It is a fantastic way for your child to interact socially with their peers in a positive environment. Make sure that you look for a dance school that is nurturing, try a few classes and make sure that your child is having fun even if the school has a serious approach.

Some of the terminology that you will hear when your kids start taking ballet are as follows: the five positions of ballet (1^st, 2^nd, 3^rd, 4^th and 5^th positions), Plie, Arabesque, Tendu, Barre, Developpe and Grand Jete. You can find many glossaries online if you are finding yourself overwhelmed by all the new language your little one keeps coming home with.

You will need to ask the dance teacher what your son or daughter should wear to ballet class. For girls a simple leotard, a pair of ballet tights and ballet shoes is best. For boys, tights and a tight tank top or boys leotard and ballet shoes is appropriate. The teacher needs to be able to see the alignment of the body so baggy tracksuit pants and a sloppy t-shirt or jumper will not be suitable. Some dance schools have a set uniform for classes and assessments and should be able to direct you as to where you can purchase the correct clothing.

When selecting ballet shoes remember to consult the dance teacher taking the class as teachers have different preferences. The younger dancer usually benefits from wearing a full-sole ballet shoe rather than a split-sole shoe so that the dancer can work the pointe more effectively and create stronger feet and in turn more control.

If you are interested in seeing a professional ballet here are some classics that would be suitable for children: Sleeping Beauty, Swan Lake, The Nutcracker and Coppelia (my personal favourite).