Engaging in dancing as an extracurricular activity can bring forth many advantages for children. Beyond its physical benefits, where it serves as a dynamic exercise regimen, dancing offers a delightful and nourishing outlet for the mind as well!
When kids mix movement and rhythm together, it creates a special feeling that not only makes their bodies healthier but also makes their minds feel good. Joining dance classes is a great way to make new friends in a fun and friendly environment. Everyone loves dancing, so it’s easy for kids to connect and become buddies, even outside of class. Also, dancing is a way to use up extra energy and stay healthy. It helps kids learn to take care of their bodies and be disciplined about it.
For those residing in Pittsburgh, the opportunities for children’s dance classes are abundant and diverse. With an array of options to choose from, families can easily find a program that aligns with their child’s interests and aspirations.
From ballet to hip-hop, contemporary to jazz, the city boasts a rich selection of dance styles that cater to varied preferences, ensuring that every child can find their niche and embark on an exciting journey of artistic and physical exploration.
Check out our top picks for the best kids’ dance classes around Pittsburgh!
1
Ballet Academy of Pittsburgh
Children’s Classes are the specialty at the Ballet Academy of Pittsburgh! The Ballet Academy of Pittsburgh provides the highest-quality classical ballet training in a creative and caring environment for children ages 18 months to 8 years.2
Cynthia’s School of Dance & Music
Cynthia’s dance studio provides dance and musical skills; children learn stage presence, how to work as a team, and much more. Dance class options offer different kinds of dance moves, including tap, ballet, and jazz. The toddler classes include tumbling and lots of fun!3
Art in Motion Pittsburgh
This Pittsburgh-based dance studio for kids and adults welcomes experienced dancers and absolute beginners, from ages 3 to 103. 4
JCC School of Dance
The JCC offers classes that explore a variety of dance styles. Classes for school-age children and teens are organized at all levels. Students advance based on their ability to perform given tasks.5
Los Sabrosos Dance Co.
Los Sabrosos offers kids’ classes in ballet, breakdancing, jazz, dance fusion, and more! If you want your kids to build confidence, flexibility, and strength in their bodies and minds, these kids’ classes immerse them in a variety of dances and music, teaching life lessons along the way.6
Pittsburgh Heat Dance Company
PHDC is a dance center that welcomes individuals aged three and older, offering diverse styles like hip-hop, break dancing, popping, and locking. Regardless of experience level, their skilled instructors teach classes progressively, introducing fresh elements during each session. For those with more expertise, dance crews are open for new members.7
MAC Dance Studio
MAC offers a wide variety of dance classes for students of all ages, including acro/tumbling, ballet, hip-hop, jazz, and tap. The studio’s staff of dance professionals strives to build each student’s self-esteem and provide them with knowledge, appreciation, and love for dance. MAC Dance Studio offers recreational ballet classes; cheer/gym, which includes the elements of acrobatics combined with dance; and acrobatic/tumbling classes.8
Move to the Beat YMCA Dance Classes
Kids will be introduced to the joy of movement and dance with an introductory class that helps develop flexibility, coordination, balance, and grace using techniques from ballet, creative movement, gymnastics, and playful educational games!9
Kelly Strayhorn Theater presents The Alloy School
The Alloy School is a place where creativity is valued and everyone is accepted regardless of gender, culture, or ability. Lessons offered include Creative Play, which is a Parent & Me class for boosting imagination in early education; Jazz Ballet; Hip Hop; West African Dance & Drum; and more!10
Pittsburgh Ballet Theatre
The PBT’s Children’s Division is for dancers starting out in their ballet journey. Students in this division are placed in levels primarily based on their age, from Family and Me classes for the youngest dancers through Pre-Ballet 6/7.11
All About Dance Studio
All About Dance Studio’s class offerings include ballet, pointe, lyrical, tap, jazz, and acrobatics.12
Joy School of Dance
The Joy School of Dance is a performing arts center in Crafton, PA, celebrating 70 years of education. Kids will find classes on jazz, tap, ballet, creative movement, hip-hop, pre-K dance, and more!13
Ideal Dance
Ideal Dance offers classes in ballet, pointe, jazz, tap, hip-hop, and contemporary for beginner and advanced students of all ages! Ideal Dance helps dancers grow in abilities, personal development, and well-being.14
Level Up
Level Up offers dance classes and workshops for all ages. Students will gain confidence through dance and the arts while building long-lasting relationships in a nurturing environment! You will find beginner-to-advanced classes for both youth and adults!15
