How to get your child into ballet

Leading ballerina Laurretta Summerscales has contributed to the lesson plan of the special nationwide Barbie Ballet Class, open for registrations now,  which takes place on 16/17 March at participating Royal Academy of Dance schools across the country and the winning class will perform in front of Royal Academy of Dance president Darcey Bussell.

If you are thinking about ballet classes for your child Laurretta Summerscales gives her top tips:

1. Start young: children are able to dance as early as two years of age, and the Primary Ballet Royal Academy of Dance curriculum takes students on at the age of four years for their first grade exam
2. Explore with music: it’s important to explore the dance opportunities available to your child, and what kind of music and natural rhythm they enjoy, from pop, to classical to hip-hop. Download a selection of popular ballet songs from the internet to play in the background of their play area, to see what sparks their interest most
3. Use their imagination: ballet is all about telling a story through dance. The music of The Sugar Plum Fairy or Swan Lake sets the scene, and can inspire children to imagine the fantasy world around them. Encourage children to imagine they are fairies collecting flowers from the famous Giselle ballet or to dance like a swan, and create their own movements. The DVD of Barbie™ in The Pink Shoes provides the perfect inspiration for children whilst encouraging them to follow their dancing dreams.
4. Practice exercises: ballet is a great source of exercise, particularly in young children who are still developing their mobility in their feet and ankle strength, whilst their bones are still supple. Children are able to pick up several skills from ballet, including flexibility, creativity, a sense of timing and increased confidence. Ballet can also help with posturing and adjust the alignment of the spine and give little ones good posture for life. Practice circular movements of the feet with your children, pointing and flexing will help strengthen their ankles and improve leg to feet co-ordination.
5. Encourage boys to dance: male ballet dancers are held in high regard and it is a wonderful vocation for boys to choose, as many lead parts are offered to boys in a less-competitive environment. These positions require tremendous amounts of strength and agility.
6. Find your nearest ballet class: find your nearest registered teacher at Royal Academy of Dance or check out your local church hall or community centre first to try an introductory course.

 Barbie in the Pink Shoes - Includes Barbie Charm Bracelet [DVD]  on DVD from 18 March 2013 available from Amazon.