Happy Feet!

Early Childhood Academy

Dance Classes for Age 2-7

INTRODUCE YOUR LITTLE STAR TO
THE WORLD OF DANCE

Early childhood image

Young children will learn to dance and grow as they develop their balance, stamina, coordination, and strength while sparking creativity and preparing for the big stage. We offer each little dancer a relaxed, encouraging environment. Our carefully crafted curriculum provides the best in dance education for our younger dancers, igniting each child’s own special magic. Our instructors love what they do and follow the DiscoverDance approach along with that of our Founder, Shana Garling.


Our Happy Feet Academy INTRO TO BALLET classes are Ballet-focused classes, created to promote the enjoyment of ballet along with the love of beautiful classical music.


Our FUN WITH DANCE Classes are just that - having fun and learning early childhood dance skills in a graduated format in a variety of styles from tap to pop hip hop, tumbling and acro to jazz and pom/cheer among others.


Most classes in the Early Childhood Happy Feet Academy are Performance Classes and will have the opportunity to perform. Everyone loves working towards the end-of-season performance, THE JUNE SHOW!  Dancers ages 4+ may also audition to be in the Nutcracker Ballet and dancers 5+ may be in the Hip Nut held each December at the Appell Center.


Class Recommendations: 1-2 classes per week for skill development, social interaction and a year-round activity. For those who really want to perform more, we have the Forward Company, open to dancers ages 4-7, just one 30 minute rehearsal a week.

Class Descriptions

Intro to Ballet Classes

Our pre-ballet training begins as early as age 3. Children explore dance adventures where young movers twirl, leap, and explore the magic of classical dance while discovering the beauty of classical music often to a special theme or famous ballet story.

Discover Ballet     A playful and imaginative introduction to movement, rhythm, and pre-ballet concepts.

Pre-Primary Ballet   A Pre-Primary Ballet class with special themes; Introduces the student to early foundational ballet as well as physical development for other athletic activities while fostering a love for dance and classical music.

Primary Ballet Primary Ballet is the final foundational stage before formal ballet levels begin as the children gain readiness for a more structured classes.

Fun With Dance CLASSES

Our Fun With Dance classes are the perfect mix of fun and foundational learning!  Through music & movement, children build coordination, balance, rhythm, listening skills, and confidence in a supportive and encouraging environment.  Each style introduces new skills — from graceful ballet basics and energetic jazz moves to rhythmic tap steps and imaginative creative dance and more.

Happy Feet Tots Ages 1.5-3  30 minute dance class of Creative Movement and Pre-Ballet beginnings. One parent/adult attends the class if the dancer is not ready to separate. Ages 1.5-3. Non-performing class.

Happy Feet Combo Ages 3-4   Pre-school combo classes of Ballet, Jazz, Tap and Musical Theatre.

Happy Feet Combo Ages 4-5    A fun class combining Ballet, Jazz, Tap and Musical Theatre.

Happy Feet Combo Ages 5-7     A more structured class combining Ballet, Jazz, Tap and Musical Theatre.


Pom Squad & Cheer Ages 4-7  A high-energy experience that blends pom, dance team jazz and cheer techniques; learn combos; increase
     coordination and have a grand time!

Pop Hop Combo Ages 4-7  K-Pop, Hip Hop & Jazz combine to create this fast and popular class to age-appropriate music; newest styles!

Forward Company Join this company & be a leader! 30-minute rehearsal to build performance skills in a variety of styles; Perform extra!

Happy Feet

NON-Performing classes

DanceMix Rotating Class  Recreational class for kids to to give dance a try but not yet ready to commit to performing. Jazz, Lyrical, Hip Hop &
     Pom/Cheer. Non-performing class.

Acro & Tumbling 3-5 & 5-7  Learn Acro & Tumbling with champion gymnast, Kylah; focus on proper execution & work on overall fitness.
     Non-performing class.

Aerial Adventures 4-7   This thrilling class builds on the advancement of interactive circuits, balance beam and aerial silks. Non-performing class.

DANCE COMPANY

FOR THE VERY YOUNG DANCER

  • Open to all Early Childhood Students Ages 4-7
  • Join our Early Childhood Dance Company & be a leader!
  • Build performance skills in a variety of styles from Hip Hop to Jazz and more!
  • Performs in June Show plus special invitations to dance at community performances like York Revolution.

Reserve Your Spot Today!

SPECIAL INFORMATION FOR PARENTS OF
EARLY CHILDHOOD STUDENTS

We provide early childhood dance education in a secure, nurturing, and stimulating environment. Our curriculum addresses the physical, emotional, and intellectual needs of our preschool students.


The first few weeks serve as an introductory phase to help students become comfortable with their overall dance experience. Through age-appropriate music, movement exercises, ballet, use of props, and creative games, we begin to foster coordination, listening skills, musical awareness, and imagination. Remember, preschool dance is about helping children tap into their imaginations and express themselves creatively, rather than solely learning steps. So don't worry if your child doesn't pirouette around the house right away—it's all part of their dance adventure.


The process of separating from parents is an important milestone for preschool children attending dance class. As children grow, they learn to develop an interest in class activities, feel comfortable with their peers, and understand that parents will always come back for them. We understand that some children may initially resist attending class, but it's usually short-lived. Here are some helpful suggestions:


  • Focus on the positive aspects of the dance class experience.
  • Ensure your child is engaged in an activity or under the teacher's care before you leave.
  • Keep goodbyes brief and avoid prolonged farewells.
  • Seek assistance from the teacher during the separation process. 


It's okay if dance class may not be the right fit for your child at this moment. If your child expresses distress or does not want to participate, please don't panic. Pushing children beyond their comfort zones may create negative associations with dance. We encourage you to try again in future months, allowing your child to grow at their own pace.


Helpful Hints

Take your dancer to the restroom prior to class.

Arrive 5-10 minutes prior to your class time.

Students line-up at the door and do not enter the classroom until the teacher invites students in.

Once your teacher welcomes the dancers into the class, you may confidently leave them and either wait in the lobby or in your car. You may even run an errand as long as you are back at the end of class.