How Do I Choose the Right Dance Style for My Child?
Choosing the right dance style for your child can feel like a big decision, especially with so many options available. At McDonald-Wilson Dance Academy (MWDA), Calgary’s oldest and most trusted dance studio, we’ve been guiding families for over 50 years in helping their children find their perfect dance path. Whether your child is ready to leap into ballet or groove to the rhythm of hip-hop, we’re here to help you make the best choice.
Understanding Your Child’s Interests
The first step in choosing a dance style is to consider your child’s natural inclinations and interests. Do they love to twirl around the house, mimicking the grace of ballet dancers? Or are they always bouncing to the beat of their favorite songs, showing an interest in jazz or hip-hop? Understanding what excites your child will help guide your decision and ensure they have fun while learning.
Dance Styles We Offer at MWDA
At MWDA, we offer a range of dance styles to suit different personalities, preferences, and skill levels:
Preschool Dance: Preschool dance is great for young children who love to move, explore music, and express themselves creatively in a playful, supportive environment.
Ballet: Ballet is the foundation for most other dance styles. It teaches discipline, grace, and strong technique. If your child enjoys structure, precision, and storytelling through movement, ballet might be a great fit.
Jazz: Jazz is upbeat, energetic, and full of dynamic movements. It’s ideal for kids who love rhythm, expression, and bold movements.
Tap: For children who love rhythm and making sounds, tap is a fantastic way to build coordination and musicality. It's fun and offers a great workout for both body and mind!
Acro: Acro is perfect for children who love gymnastics, enjoy flipping, and have a passion for combining strength, flexibility, and dance in a fun and challenging way.
Breaking/Hip-Hop: Hip-hop is fast-paced and filled with fun, freestyle movements. It’s a perfect option for kids who enjoy high-energy dancing with a more contemporary, street-style vibe.
Lyrical/Contemporary/Modern: If your child loves emotional storytelling and expressive movements, contemporary dance combines elements of ballet, jazz, and modern styles, giving them a chance to express themselves artistically.
Age-Appropriate Classes and Levels
At MWDA, we structure our classes to ensure children of all ages and abilities feel comfortable and challenged. Whether your child is 3 years old and just starting out, or an older beginner interested in trying something new, our experienced instructors tailor lessons to meet your child where they are.
The Benefits of Trying Multiple Styles
Many young dancers start by experimenting with different styles before settling on their favorite. We encourage this exploration because it helps them develop versatility and a deeper appreciation for the art of dance. At MWDA, we offer combination classes that introduce students to various dance styles in one session, allowing them to discover their preferences while building a well-rounded skill set.
Our Expertise at MWDA
As Calgary’s longest-standing dance academy, we’ve helped thousands of dancers—both recreational and pre-professional—find the styles that resonate with them. Our award-winning faculty includes Royal Academy of Dance-certified instructors who are committed to nurturing each dancer’s growth in a fun, non-competitive environment.
Ready to Help Your Child Find Their Perfect Dance Style?
At MWDA, we’re passionate about helping children explore their love for dance in a supportive and encouraging environment. Whether they’re drawn to the elegance of ballet or the energy of jazz, we have the perfect class to help them grow and thrive.
Want to learn more? Contact us today to schedule a trial class or speak with one of our experienced instructors about the best dance style for your child!
