What age to start dance lessons?

[BekZ]

Hi All,

DD1 is 4yo and she has loved to dance and prance around since she could walk. Recently I started her in dance lessons. She does 1/2 jazz and 1/2 ballet. Whilst at her lesson DD2 who is 2yo joined in and subsequently has continued.

We didn't budget for both girls to do dancing and each term we are up for $400. This doesn't include costumes and end of year expenses or all the fund-raising the school wants us to do.

The girls have been attending for 8weeks and I still can't get out of DD1 if she likes it or not. DD2 loves going because she gets a lolly at the end of the lesson.

My question: For the dance teachers or mum's with dancers: Do you think my girls would be ok to start dancing at a older age? Or would they be missing out on the basics if they wanted to do dance when older?

[Liviam]

I'm subscrbing Bek because I want DD to do dance and I have been wondering exactly the same things. Answerings are going to be very interesting.

[Amaunet]

There is a BB member called Raising Dancers who is a dance teacher I think - maybe PM her if she doesn't see this?

[Loula]

I remember starting tap at 4! and i think my niece did too.

[Nai]

Is there anywhere cheaper to do lessons? DD1 is doing Kinderballet and it is much cheaper than what you are paying, no fundraising and minimal cost for costumes for the concert etc.

[Mum2Romone]

I started at 3. before then i dont think they can really "learn" IYKWIM ?

But im sure it would be fun for oyur 2 yr old, maybe look at some knid on gymberee ? or kinder dance for her

[Babyluv]

I'm a dance teacher, I've danced for 21 yrs.
I personally think 3 is a good age to start any younger and they don't learn much. Also starting at 3 they are quite flexible which makes it easier for them rather than starting at 5 or 6 and they have to practice more to develop that flexibility.