Category: Ballet

A Complete Guide to the Best Ballet Music for Kids

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Having the appropriate music is crucial whether you’re instructing a children’s ballet class or helping your child learn at home.

The fact that not just any classical CD will do may surprise you! Children’s ballet music can serve as a helpful prompt for young ballerinas to remember which movements to practice. Even while some of the best ballet music for kids includes upbeat melodies, older kids will particularly benefit from classical ballet music for barre work.

We have you covered if you’re unsure about which ballet music is best for your kid. The best ballet music for kids is listed here.

What Makes Ballet Music for Kids Good?

Even if you can easily locate all kinds of classical ballet music online, it might not be suitable for your child’s complete class. Many CDs contain tunes that aren’t appropriate for a child’s ballet lesson because they were created with teen or adult dancers in mind.

Simple, well-known songs can inspire your child to begin moving freely. When movement is less regimented, fun nursery rhymes or Disney tunes are excellent for warm-ups and cool-downs. When your class is warming up by playing freeze dance or dancing with scarves, switching between fast and slow tracks can be a great idea.

A portion of dance class might be appropriate for the dancers’ favorite tunes as long as they have a delicate character.

The majority of music is classical and frequently consists of brief pieces when being practiced at the barre. It’s common to find a list of the proper exercises next to each piece of classical music on ballet CDs that you may purchase. You might find yourself skipping songs frequently depending on the level of experience in your class, so it might be wise to limit the music you download to your phone to those you actually intend to utilize.

Imaginative arrangements from well-known ballets like Swan Lake and The Nutcracker are ideal for practicing poses, going across the floor, or adagio for floor training after barre. Additionally useful for rehearsing quick routines that kids develop week after week are these longer songs.

How to Choose Music for Ballet Class

It’s crucial to consider how your class will run before you begin creating your playlist. If you’re Before you start making your playlist, it’s important to think about how your class will function. If you’re a parent who is teaching your kid to dance at home, you might want to look at some of the lesson plans for dancing classes.

During warm-up, dancers can need assistance shifting their focus. Undoubtedly jittery and excited to see their friends, they have the wiggles. Laugh-out-loud music in a variety of tempos is ideal for stretching during this time.

Consider including some nursery rhyme songs in this stage to help your dancers in remembering their stretches. As part of your warm-up, it may be sufficient to conduct stretches in a small circle while soft music plays in the background.

Then, barre exercises can be carried out while listening to classical ballet music. Focus on music created for young children’s plies, releves, tendus, and rande jambe. Despite the short length of these songs, you might need to repeat them a few times in order to master the moves. It is advantageous to have two or three options for each step.

As you proceed to center work, longer, more classical ballet compositions can inspire your young dancers to embody more grace in their movements. This is particularly helpful if you need to move from one side of the floor to the other since you need a song that is long enough to encompass several rows of two or three dancers. If your child is dancing at home, a song that is longer can encourage further practice in this area.

Your cool-down music could be upbeat tunes from Disney or other musicians. This is great for tumbling, spontaneous dancing, or goodbye songs. We suggest ending the class with a quick bow or curtsy routine to a soft, classical piece.

How Distinctive Dance Etc. Can Assist

Distinctive Dance Etc., a facility offering a stimulating atmosphere for kids of all ages that allows them to explore and grow while having fun, is situated in Greenwood Proper in Warwick. Each child’s requirements are met by a variety of programs at DDE, which also provides a wide range of learning opportunities. Miss Stacy takes great delight in imparting her knowledge and skills in dance and gymnastics while also giving her students ongoing support and direction. To know more, get in touch with us!

Dance Tips: How to Motivate a Young Dancer to Not Quit in Just 3 Steps!

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You are aware that your youngster enjoys dancing, but lately they have seemed less interested. Since 70% of children stop participating in sports by the age of 13, this is completely normal.

As a parent, you are aware of when your child should stop doing something they no longer find enjoyable. But what can you do if you are aware that they like something but only need a little push?

Continue reading to discover parent dancing advice that will inspire your dancer to persevere.

Set goals

Setting objectives with your child is one of the finest dancing tips you can give them. Setting goals makes people more committed, which keeps people motivated.

You may encourage your child to be motivated when the goals you set together are clear, achievable, and practical. As a parent, you should act as a motivator to help your dancer accomplish the objectives they have set. Once they become motivated by the goals, they will want to put in more effort and eventually create their own without your assistance.

A straightforward objective, such as spending just two hours per week working on a certain dance technique, can develop into something bigger in the future. It’s crucial to really put these objectives in writing and post them wherever your dancer can see them every day when you develop them. By actually viewing these objectives, people will be reminded every day of what needs to be done.

Make them feel good

Making your child feel good is a surefire method to raise their self-esteem and, in turn, motivate them more. With kids, positive reinforcement is always effective. Even if they end up dancing in the back row, be sure to compliment them on their performance and offer advice to help them get better so they can move up.

No matter how subtly a dance teacher presents it, even young toddlers can understand what is happening. They will become aware if they are always in the background or watch others receiving solo portions while they do not.

Speak with the dance instructor if you notice that this is starting to negatively impact your child’s self-esteem. During practice, it’s possible to move the kids around to give them the impression that they’re not in one spot. It might be helpful even if they are still in the rear but in a different arrangement.

Treating them occasionally will help them feel good about the effort they are making. Offer them a celebration when they achieve their goals, whether it’s pizza night or a new dancing outfit.

Set an example

Dancing has the added advantage of being something you can do with your child. In fact, your youngster is more likely to follow your example while you are moving around.

Keeping your child’s attitude upbeat is one of the tips for better dance classes. The best way to achieve this is to maintain your energy and enthusiasm throughout the day. Encourage your child to go to their dance class so that they will be more motivated to achieve the objectives you’ve established.

To demonstrate to your children that you are all in this together, you could attend a dance class with them if the studio permits it. They are capable of keeping up if you can.

One of the dance tips that can promote a positive working relationship with the dance teacher is this one. Teachers play a significant part in your child’s life, so they ought to be part of yours too. Avoid getting involved to the point where you are interfering excessively, but do seek out feedback when required.

5 Great Ballet Books for Kids

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Parents adore dance lessons because they assist in teaching kids so many important life skills!

Together with self-expression, ballet teaches perseverance, discipline, and grace. Ballet is a great method for kids to burn off some steam while making new friends, so they frequently look forward to it.

It’s simple to recreate the excitement of ballet class at home by reading aloud. These ballet books are a fantastic option for your child to continue their love of dancing outside of the classroom if they are a dance enthusiast. Additionally, these entertaining dance books can help students remember the crucial principles they cover in class each week.

The top 5 ballet books for kids are listed below. Let’s get moving!

  1. The Silver Slippers by Elizabeth Koda-Callan

The ideal present for any little dancer is this book about a ballerina. The well-known children’s book on ballet by Elizabeth Koda-Callan is the ideal motivator to get your child ready for their dancing recital. This book addresses issues that young dancers experience universally, such as stage anxiety and self-doubt.

We adore this book because it promotes tenacity. In this tale, the adage “practice makes perfect” dominates, inspiring the young girl to give an amazing performance. Additionally, this lovely book comes with a silver slippers charm necklace that will serve as a constant reminder to your little dancer that she is good enough.

  1. My First Dance – Ballet Board Book

This practical board book is a terrific method to start teaching your child ballet vocabulary if you have a tiny wiggler who is just starting courses. This book is a favorite among toddlers since it displays images of young, different dancers who resemble them on each page!

Think of this book as your first introduction to ballet. This board book is a fantastic method to review the procedures covered in beginner lessons or get your child ready for their first day of school. Reading this book to your baby might assist her to remember each move and show what she has learned for you if she is keen to practice her moves at home.

  1. I’m A Ballerina By Sue Fliess

This book is for your little dancer if dance class makes her feel scary. The perfect book to help your ballerina get ready for class each week is I’m a Ballerina. Your young dancer feels ready to move since the main character boldly guides her through her class and recital.

Young, shy dancers will recognize themselves in this book and discover that ballet is fun. Any baby ballerina’s bookshelf must include This Little Golden Book.

  1. Boys Dance! by John Robert Allman

It can be nerve-wracking for your little man to be the only boy in class. This book is a must if you have a boy who loves dance more than his sisters do. In order to demonstrate that guys can dance, too, this charming book was produced in collaboration with the men of American Ballet Theater. Representation in the dance world is crucial.

The real photos and interviews from the ABT ballerinos in the back of this book can be especially motivating for your boy. This book is vital to share the love of dance with your son.

  1. Bunheads by Misty Copeland

While fictional stories are entertaining, encouraging tales from well-known dancers may be exactly the thing to inspire your young dancer. One of the most well-known ballerinas of all time, Misty Copeland’s lovely autobiographical children’s book is a touching role model for every little dancer.

This heartwarming tale demonstrates the importance of teamwork, bravery, and dedication in ballet for ballerinas who are just beginning to find their own passion for dance. This book will be the ideal present to fuel the passion of your little dancer if she lives and breathes ballet.

Simple Ballet Positions Your Child Can Practice at Home

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Your child adores ballet and enjoys dancing in general. Sadly, the COVID-19 outbreak has forced studio closures worldwide. There is no place to practice, and lessons are postponed. Even so, they are still capable of dancing.

No special area is required for aspiring ballerinas to start moving. We can satisfy your child’s need for ballet if they have one. Continue reading for some basic ballet positions and movements that may be practiced at home.

What You’ll Need to Get Started

Ballet fundamentals don’t require expensive equipment to master. But the correct equipment can replicate the studio environment in your house. You will need the following to equip your tiny ballerina.

Slippers

Every dancer, regardless of age, needs a good pair of ballet shoes. Pointe shoes are not required for novices. Young dancers should instead begin wearing slippers. Choose shoes with a full sole and a rounded toe.

Order a half size bigger than you normally wear for shoes. It is simple to measure if you want to be certain of the correct size. You can find all the necessary information in our helpful guide.

Leotard

For exercising, sweatpants and a t-shirt are cozy. However, a leotard that fits tightly enables dancers to perceive the lines that their arms and legs form. Both long and short sleeves are available for leotards. Some of them come with a skirt.

Tutus are typically worn on stages. However, there are none at home. Why not choose a tutu or maybe a ballerina dress just for fun?

Tights

Add some footed tights to complete the look. Don’t forget to style your long hair in a traditional ballerina bun.

Ballet Positions: Fancy Feet

It’s time to start dancing now that your little dancer is prepared. The five fundamental ballet positions will be our first focus. Every school has a different set of related hand positions. So just focus on the feet for the time being. Dancers should get comfortable holding each pose and switching between them.

First Position

  • Stand with heels together, with toes pointed outward.
  • Feet ought to resemble a wide “V”
  • Hold arms in front, nearly touching the thighs.
  • Curve wrists inward.

Second Position

  • Start with feet and arms in first position.
  • Spread feet slightly, about shoulder-width apart.
  • Raise your arms out to the side, almost in a “T” form.

Third Position

  • Slide the right foot up to the inside of the left foot starting in the second position.
  • Move arms into first position.
  • The left arm remains in the first position.
  • Lift the right arm just enough so that the fingertips are parallel to the hips.

Fourth Position

  • Step the right foot forward from third position.
  • Put your right arm in the second position by lifting it.

Fifth Position

  • Turn out the right foot.
  • Turn the other way and place the left foot behind the right.
  • Toes and heels should touch.
  • In a circular shape, lift arms above the head.
  • Keep a space between the hands.

Ballet Positions: It’s All in the Arms

It’s time to practice arm positions now that your child has a handle on footwork. They are known as the port de bras in ballet.

En Avant: Arms Forward

  • In front of the torso, hold arms.
  • Slightly round them, as if hugging an imaginary tree.

En Haut: High up

  • Hold arms above the head.
  • Shoulders remain flat.

En Bas: Below

  • Bring arms down to the sides.
  • Palms point forward, toward the legs.

The Gateway

The resting ballet stance in between positions is known as The Gateway. Although it initially seems simple, it’s crucial to practice maintaining this position in precise alignment.

  • In en avant position, hold the arms.
  • Don’t lower the shoulders; only the arms. Shoulders should be somewhat above the elbows.
  • Curve each hand, slightly cupped. Face palms inward.
  • Align fingertips with the bottom of the breastbone.
  • Keep hands slightly apart.

Put It All Together

These basic ballet stances can be taught without prior dance experience. Even young children can learn them because they are so simple.

Short sessions are beneficial for toddlers. Consider focusing on one or two movements at once, and take frequent rests. Older dancers might concentrate on perfecting their techniques.

All children require a lot of practice to become proficient in a skill. Of course, that doesn’t exclude you from having fun. Dance classes can and should be enjoyable.

How To Clean Ballet Shoes?

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Whenever it’s time to get a new pair of shoes as your old one is in poor condition, make sure to pick the right pair of shoes for ballet lessons.

Before buying a new pair of shoes for ballet lessons each time, knowing how to clean them is extremely important for all. Because it helps to save your expenses by reducing the number of pairs you need to purchase each season.

Continue reading to learn more about how to care for different types of ballet shoes.

 

What Are The Procedure To Clean Your Ballet Shoes?

There are various sorts of ballet shoes available in the market and each pair of shoes requires a unique cleaning procedure according to its material. That includes –

Canvas Ballet Shoes

Ballet shoes made of canvas are easier to maintain and clean compared to other types. To wash your pair of shoes in a machine, you only need to apply a gentle detergent for that. Your ballet shoes made of canvas will also require running a cold and gentle cycle.

Once you’ve completed its cleaning steps, you need a clean towel for drying them. Also, keep them far from direct sunlight, which is never recommended for drying ballet shoes. Never use a pair of wet shoes for ballet lessons.

 

Satin Ballet Shoes

Ballet shoes made of satin are extra sensitive, so only need washing by hand. You can either use a gentle or mild detergent for the cleaning of satin ballet shoes. A few drops of detergent mixed with cold water can produce suds to clean your satin shoes for ballet lessons. After that, you need to properly clean your shoes in clear water. Never twist or ring your satin ballet shoes for cleaning.

 

Leather Ballet Shoes

Leather ballet shoes are equally sensitive as satin shoes and require similar washing to get a proper cleaning. You might be able to remove light stains and scuffs with a damp rag on your own because leather is less porous than satin and canvas. You could wish to squirt some detergent into the water you’re using to dip your rag for a deeper clean.

 

Major Tips To Remember Between Washes

Ballet shoes can last longer with the odd deep clean, but too much rigorous cleaning might weaken and split the materials. So, having regular spot cleaning can keep your ballet shoes looking brand new while reducing the number of times you need to do a deep clean of them.

If you want to decrease the odor of your ballet shoes, baking soda is extremely helpful to clean your shoes as well as remove bad odours from them. And so, you need to put a teaspoon of baking soda into each shoe after practice to keep them fresh for longer. This will also assist in absorbing any moisture and getting rid of the smell-causing particles.

Now that you are eager to take ballet dance lessons from highly-experienced instructors, look no further than Distinctive Dance Etc to get enrollment in the next sessions. Helping aspirants of all ages to explore new skills, we are proud to stimulate an environment for kids to have fun. From dancing to gymnastic sessions, we’ve got you all covered with a range of programs as per your interest to acquire extra-curriculum activities.

For more convenience, you can simply visit us at www.distinctivedanceetc.com and join us right now!