Getting Started!

What to Expect in Your Child’s First Ballet Class

We know that a child’s first class can be intimidating! We always want our dancers to feel as comfortable as possible in each and every class, including their first! Below are some common questions, as well as what to expect! It may be helpful to go through some of the points with your child beforehand!

Before You Arrive

When you register:

You’ll receive a confirmation text and email from our administrative team! These will provide you with basic information (some of which is detailed below) as well as the day, time, and date of your trial class. Should you need to reschedule, simply reply and let us know! 

What to wear: 

While we do not have a dress code many students choose a dress, leotard or more traditional ballet attire. For your trial class we recommend something comfortable and easy to move in as well as either bare feet, or ballet shoes. Please note that we do not allow dancers to wear socks without grips in the dance space.

What to Bring:

We recommend bringing a water bottle, comfy clothes (see above) and your very best dance moves to class with you! Many dancers also bring a favorite doll or stuffie to watch from the waiting room. Or even their favorite grown up! Family and friends are always welcome in the waiting room during your dancer’s class.

Caregiver participation is required in our Baby Ballet A/B and Tutu Toddler A/B divisions, with these levels in particular we recommend comfy clothes for our grown ups too!

When to get there:

Tutu School classes are 45 minutes. You may choose to come 5-10 minutes before your classes start time to meet your teacher, and get familiar with the space! If you arrive more than 10 minutes early your Tutu Teacher will greet you once they are finished with the prior class!

What to Expect

Before Class: 

Your Tutu Teacher will introduce themselves prior to class, answer any questions, and learn your dancer’s name! Once your teacher is ready for class to begin they will invite everyone into the dance space and direct dancers (and caregivers in our younger classes) to find either a pink dot or a yoga mat to sit on.

If your dancer is in the Baby Ballet A/B or Tutu Toddler A/B level, please note that caregiver participation is required. Meaning that one grownup will be in the room with your dancer to encourage them to follow along, and to give lots of hugs!

During Class:  

Your dancer will participate in many activities based on our fabulous Tutu School curriculum. Especially designed to be age appropriate, imaginative, and fun. All while learning ballet basics! Dancers may use props, sing songs, or play games. Each thoughtfully designed to teach through play! Classes follow the same structure in all levels. Detailed below!

• Opening circle: welcoming each dancer to class. This might include a welcome song, an “I love ballet” said in unison, or a butterfly circle depending on the level.

• Seated circle: movement exploration, singing, and age appropriate stretching

• Standing Circle or Barre: practicing basic ballet steps and positions. This section of class can vary widely depending on the level of your child.

• A la Carte: Movement exploration or dance games. Specifically tailored to teach ballet basics!

• Ballet Storytime: where we learn about ballet classics. Including ballets such as Cinderella, The Sleeping Beauty, or The Nutcracker. The story is read in sections to the class, followed by a short time to dance like the part of the story they are reading.

Following Class:

Your Tutu Teacher will talk to you about how your class went and answer any questions that you may have. You will also receive a text and an email from our administration, you’re welcome to reply with any questions.

If you’d like to register for classes immediately following your trial you will get 30 days of unlimited twirling, to make your first month of membership extra magical! To register following your trial simply let your teacher know! Or respond to the follow up email or text. We will have you put a card on file, process your registration, and email your membership confirmation.

It is Okay If…

• Your child watches instead of dances
• They need a break, a drink, or a hug
• They participate in short bursts
• They want reassurance from a grown-up

All our dancers are different, that is part of what makes ballet so magical! Especially at their first class,  dancers may be nervous, shy, or need gentle encouragement. We recognize that many of our dancers are young, and may or may not have experienced a class setting before! It is completely normal and even expected for these to take place.

Rest assured that our thoughtfully trained Tutu Teachers expect the unexpected, and have taught many children of all ages and stages. Our Tutu Team is here to support your dancer and to provide the best experience possible!

Your child is learning: In Ballet they are learning many important skills, not limited to ballet! They are building confidence, learning social skills, and creating friendships! 

Parents of our dancers often notice increased confidence in their child. Talking about their dance friends or teacher outside of the studio. Practicing steps that they learned in class (even if they didn’t actually do them at the studio- sometimes it’s just the way it goes). As well as a sense of accomplishment after a class has concluded.

We are so excited to twirl with your dancer at a trial class! To register you can find the “register” button in the upper right hand corner of our website and select “free trial”. If you have any questions at all feel free to reach us by phone, email, or using the contact form on our website. We can’t wait to meet you!