Now that school is back and the sweltering heat is over, your little ones will probably be looking for something to keep them entertained after school. Ballet is a popular activity for children, because of the many benefits such as muscle development, poise and rhythm. It will let your children express themselves.
A professional dancer with more than 12 years’ experience, Cecilia Stepanian offers fun classes for children at the Stepanian Ballet Dance School. Angela Beitz caught up with her to see what these prima ballerinas are made of.
Why is ballet good for kids to learn?
Ballet teaches children poise and good posture which is a really important skill to learn early in life. I also think ballet teaches girls grace and elegance, these sorts of things will have benefits for years to come. It is also great for kids as it teaches them control of their body, effective muscular exercises and artistic work. Ballet is fun yet challenging, and it does not need to be performed in a high level to obtain results. It is a wonderful way for young children to gain strength, improve flexibility and stay fit. It teaches them how to stand correctly too.
What do you feel they enjoy most about it?
The kids love wearing a tutu and playing with the costumes. They look like the little princesses that they watch in movies or read about in book like Cinderella or Sleeping Beauty. Of course they also really enjoy dancing in front of the mirror and performing for their parents and families. It’s great for them to learn the steps and routines.
What is a good age for kids to start ballet?
Children can begin ballet classes at any age; the standard age is three or four. The younger they are when they start, the more they will benefit and the stronger their bodies will grow. It is great for them to be able to develop skills such as perception, observation and listening. We offer a Baby and Pre Ballet class which is a great option if you want to introduce ballet to your child from a young age.
What are some of the important skills that can kids can learn from ballet?
Interacting with other children in this fun environment will also help develop their social skills and greatly improve their confidence. As they learn to hold themselves gracefully and move with purpose, their whole countenance will begin to change. This is particularly good for children who are shy or timid. I would say that motivation that is volunteered by the child is the successful result of a good lesson of ballet.
What do the kids wear to classes?
The little girls love wearing tutus pink slippers and leotards. The problem here in Abu Dhabi is that unfortunately there aren’t too many stores that stock this sort of thing for children and it can be difficult to find. They must wear clothing in which they feel comfortable otherwise they will have a hard time concentrating.
Do you sometimes have to tell the kids to behave?
No not at all, as long as they really want to be there then they are always good. It’s always nice to earn their respect though. I really like the saying ‘there are no bad pupils; there are only bad professors’.
What is your advice for kids and parents who want to start ballet?
I would really encourage parents not to put your kids in ballet just to keep them occupied or just as another activity to make them do. Kids need to be really motivated and this is when they are truly happy – you can tell by the look on their faces. When the little girls leave the class happy, it is truly rewarding for me.
Do you think that every little girl dreams of becoming a ballerina?
Not all of them, some of them dream of other things but they are certainly all little characters!
Classes are available Sunday-Thursday with different levels available. Prices are paid on a term basis (consisting of 3 months). Stepanian Ballet Dance School, Lazzaro Café Building, Al Khalidiya Tower (050 751 6548).
