What Age Should My Child Start Dance?

Many parents ask: What age should my child start dance classes?

The best age to start dance is often much earlier than people think, as young as 16 months, if the program is designed to support early childhood development.

At Tiny Tutus, we welcome children into our dance classes from just 16 months of age, because our program has been carefully created by education and ballet professionals to suit their developmental stage. With the right class structure, young children can safely and joyfully begin learning the foundations of real dance from the moment they’re ready to move.

What Is the Best Age to Start Dance Classes?

Dance isn’t one-size-fits-all. Many studios start at age 3 or 4, not because that’s the ideal age, but because their classes aren’t designed for younger children.

At Tiny Tutus, we start dance from 16 months because we have a purpose-built curriculum that understands what toddlers need. We don’t expect them to be ready for adult-style classes, instead, we meet them where they are and gently introduce the magic of movement, rhythm, and ballet technique in ways they can absorb and enjoy.

So when parents ask, “Is my toddler too young for dance?”

We say, “Not with the right program.”

Why Start Dance So Early?

The toddler and preschool years are a powerful window for development. Starting dance at this age helps with:

• Motor skills – balance, coordination, spatial awareness
• Cognitive skills – memory, sequencing, listening and following instructions
• Emotional skills – confidence, expression, resilience
• Social skills – taking turns, interacting with others, learning in a group

Dance supports the whole child, not just their feet.

What Happens in a Dance Class for Toddlers?

Tiny Tutus classes are joyful, structured, and age-appropriate.

 They aren’t daycare-style “movement time” with bean bags and parachutes, they’re a real introduction to dance, taught with love and expertise.

In our toddler classes, your child will:

• Learn to move in time with music
• Explore posture, balance, and first ballet positions
• Develop strength and flexibility through guided movement
• Begin understanding class structure and rhythm
• Share magical moments with you in the room (yes, parents are welcome!)

Every class supports real growth through fun, not fluff.

Designed by Experts in Dance and Education

Tiny Tutus isn’t just a dance class, it’s a curriculum.

Written by:

• Bronwyn Helmore – RAD-trained former soloist with The Australian Ballet Company
• Simone Cadell – Early childhood teacher and former Assistant Principal

Our program is built on early childhood best practices, with each step, song, and movement planned to suit the age and stage of the children in the room.

We’re also endorsed by Debbie Bradbery, Conjoint Lecturer in Education at the University of Newcastle, who confirms that Tiny Tutus aligns with the NSW Quality Teaching Framework and supports real, measurable learning outcomes.

Is My Child Too Young to Start Dance?

If your child is walking, responding to music, and curious about movement, they are ready to start.

You don’t need to wait for age 3. With a qualified, age-appropriate program, you can give your child the gift of dance from as early as 16 months.

And the best part? They’re not just learning to dance, they’re learning how to learn.

So… What Age Should My Child Start Dance?

Start when your child is ready.

Start when you want more than just another toddler activity.

Start when you’re looking for real dance, real structure, and real joy.

At Tiny Tutus, we believe the best time to start dance is the moment your little one is ready to move, and we’re here to guide them every step (and plié) of the way.

We'd love to welcome you to Tiny Tutus! Book a Trial Class today or Learn More About Our Program here