It’s almost dance season!

Studios are holding sign ups and preparing for another great year. If you’re wondering if you should sign your toddler up for dance or what it’s even like, you’ve found the right post.

Here’s why Mila and I LOVE dance class and why your toddler should join in too!

Friends and Socialization

One of the biggest reasons I signed Mila up for dance was for socialization.

Since she plays by herself most of the time, I knew she needed to make friends. Let me tell you, her socialization and friend group most definitely expanded.

One of her favorite parts of going to dance class was seeing her friends. She learned how to play better with other kids, take turns, and the basics of friendship. That’s a skill that she’ll always have to use.

Plus, as a dance mom, I got to meet so many different parents. I’m so glad to know them and their kids.

Learn About Body Movement

Toddlers are awkward.

They fall and stumble. Somehow they’re always getting back up and running again.

Dance helps toddlers and kids feel comfortable in their own body. It lets them understand how to move certain parts and their capabilities.

I think Mila’s coordination levels went up since starting dance. Plus, she learned how to move her body so fast! Her teachers did an amazing job helping her learn all the moves and to trust her body at such an early age.

Practice Listening to Other Adults

Since I’m almost a full time teacher, but a long time sub, I selfishly wanted Mila to learn how to listen to other adults.

When they go to dance class, they are made to listen and be instructed by someone that’s not their parent. It can be difficult for them, but it’s so rewarding in the long run.

I’m sure that Mila will listen and do so well in preschool because of her experience in dance class.

It might seem like a small skill, but it’s helped her be more independent and happy with other trusted adults. I’m excited to meet her new teacher this year and to have Mila listen and love another supportive adult.

Confidence

As an adult, I would never be able to get in stage and dance in front of a crowd. Yet, groups of toddlers, kids, and young adult dancers did at their recital last year.

It showed how confident they were in themselves.

Mila’s always been confident, but when she danced on stage, that confidence oozed out. It even helped her and her friends do their talent show.

As a mom of a little girl, I want her to project confidence through all aspects of her life. By being apart of dance, she gets to practice that at such a young age. That makes me a very proud dance mom.

They have FUN!

The most important aspect of anything during the toddler stage is having fun.

Let me tell you, toddler dance classes are chaotic to watch. At the beginning they’re running around crazy, but they’re smiling and laughing. By the end of the year, they know what’s expected of them and are still having fun.

Maybe I’ll call it organized chaos.

BUT… when they’re having fun they want to come back and learn more. Mila and I have so many great memories from dance class and are excited for another year of them.

Dance welcomes boys, girls, and whoever wants to join. It’s such an inclusive space that I’d recommend to everyone.

Local friends, dance studios are opening up. We go to Legacy Dance Studio and have had nothing but positive experiences. Mila and I would love to see you there too!

Have you ever signed your toddler up for classes or sports? What did you love about them?