What type of dance is best for my child?

Whether your child is a natural mover, or has not been blessed with 'twinkle toes' - it doesn't matter! Dance is still a wonderful activity for them to partake in, encouraging confidence and self-expression, while being brilliant exercise.

So which is the most suitable type of dance for your child? That, of course, will depend on the child themselves. But before you go searching for local dance schools, we have put together an article that outlines some of the dance styles which might interest them. So read on!

Ballet

Ballet is typically performed to classical music and can involve many challenging moves which are almost akin to gymnastics, from toe points to lifts. These routines may seem difficult, but remember that children are a lot more flexible than adults! Ballet demands discipline in order to learn new steps and positions, and your child can also benefit from the balance and co-ordination required, as well as the confidence which is needed to perform in front of others.

Jazz

Jazz dancing originated all the way back in the 1920s, but today it can still appeal to children interested in performing arts. Combining rhythm with strength and syncopation, it uses moves such as leaps, rolled shoulders, turned knees and sideways shuffles. If you have a child with bags of energy to burn, but who isn't so keen on playing sport, jazz dancing can be a great alternative.

Hip-hop

Incorporating styles such as break-dancing and body-popping, hip-hop dancing gets your child moving to one of the most fashionable new music genres. While hip-hop emerged in the 1980s, it is still very much in vogue today, and so if your child is 'too cool for school', they may enjoy the 'street cred' which comes with being a hip-hop dancer, as well as the challenge of the routines themselves.

Tap

Tap dance is a fusion of western and African dance which dates all the way back to the United States in the 1970s. It is another form which is excellent at developing your child's coordination, while building confidence. Kids from toddlers upwards can benefit from the fantastic exercise - if he or she is usually reluctant to exercise or play sports, tap dance can be a fun way for them to have a 'move around' without realising!

Modern

With such a broad variety of elements - from improvisation to partnering, jumps and floor work; modern dance is one of the most challenging styles, but certainly one of the most rewarding. If your child has already shown a talent or dedication to dance, modern dance can be an ideal way for them to further this interest and expand their skill set.

Callisthenics

Callisthenics can be described as a dance sport. It is performed by teams on stage and includes a variety of routines that are performed to music, taking elements from various forms of dance, as well as gymnastics and singing. Being team focused rather than individual, callisthenics can be a great opportunity for your child to socialise with other kids. If they could 'come out of their shell' a bit more, callisthenics could be the perfect option.

So that's the wrap on this run through some of the dance types that could interest your child. Keep an open mind and see what they enjoy!