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Beyond ballet

Introduce your child to new tunes and cultures with lessons in salsa, Zumba, breakdancing and more

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Originally published in Today's Parent September 2011

After watching So You Think You Can Dance, my then four-year-old daughter begged for Bollywood dance classes. The fast music, colourful costumes and expressive moves — she was hooked. Maybe the show’s funky breakdancing has caught your son’s eye, or perhaps your child just wants to groove to something different. Here’s a sampler of what the GTA offers.

AFRICAN-CARIBBEAN

What is it? “Dance classes bring together African and Caribbean movements and classical ballet,” says Patrick Parson, artistic director at Ballet Creole School. Each class features a live drummer in addition to a dance teacher. “This way they get to experience the different Afro-Caribbean rhythms,” says Parson.

Dress code While leotards and tights are preferable, T-shirts and shorts are fine, too. What’s really important is that kids are comfortable and have bare feet for dancing.

Where to go Ballet Creole School , Toronto Children and Youth Dance Theatre , Toronto

BALLROOM/LATIN

What is it? Dancing With The Stars fans know what we’re talking about — paired dances ranging from the traditional waltz to the Latin-inspired tango. “In our classes, the first thing kids learn are the rumba, cha-cha and jive,” says Christina Amalia Dina, owner of Dance Art Studio in Richmond Hill, who recommends the lessons for ages six and up.

Dress code “They can wear anything comfortable, but it’s important to have flat shoes with flexible soles,” says Dina, who says some kids start with jazz or ballet shoes. Before investing in new shoes, check with the school to verify requirements.

Where to go Dance Art Studio , Richmond Hill Joy of Dance , Toronto Light Up The Floor , Etobicoke

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