Mummy & Me Classes
Our "Mummy and Me" program is offered to younger children, aged between 2 and 3½ years of age. It gives Mum (or the primary care giver) an opportunity to join in and share their child's experience.
The classes (in term 1 and 2) are not themed, however there is emphasis on use of props and imagery, songs and dancing to music, musical response through movement, basic movement co-ordination of gross motor skills and a minor introduction to a couple of ballet steps.
The environment is relaxed and friendly, with no set costuming and no obligation for little ones to continuously participate. The children are encouraged to participate, working closely with their primary care giver, giving them a sense of security and confidence.
The hope is that the "Mummy and Me" program will be a foundation for the Kinderballet™ program if they choose to continue.
Tots
The 'Tots' program is for children who are ready to take instruction from a teacher and work independently of their parent. Children are introduced to the idea of working in a group under the guidance of a teacher.
The program aims to present a ballet class in a way that will keep a small child’s interest by having fun and being imaginative.
The class offers:
Dancing to music
Use of props (such as ribbons, wands)
Musical instruments
Basic movement co-ordination of gross motor skills
Basic introduction to some ballet steps
An introduction to concepts such as:
Group co-operation
Waiting ones turn
Following the leader
While it is important to us to give the children a fun and positive experience, we also feel strongly about teaching them the basics of dance. This differentiates us from activities where the goal is predominantly to entertain or just amuse children, sometimes with completely different class content each week.
Themes
The program revolves around a single theme which lasts for a term, allowing the child to become familiar with the routine of the class. This gives them that sense of security and helps to develop particular movement skills through repetition.
There is a strong narrative that runs through all the themes to keep the children’s interest, while learning the foundations of dance and therefore, learning through the sense of play.
Class Structure
While there is a very strong theme and narrative which runs through the class, it is structured like a Classical ballet class for pre-school children. Each class is made up of particular elements which make up the basics of all dance classes.