Burbank Dance Academy — Artistry, Education, Inspiration
Ages 3+ · Preparatory Division

Pre-Ballet

A first step into the beauty and joy of dance — designed for our youngest dancers, starting as early as age 3 (or once potty-trained).

The Pre-Ballet program is our preparatory division, designed to introduce young children to the beauty and joy of dance. Our youngest dancers will embark on their ballet journey in a nurturing and supportive environment built specifically for them.

In our Pre-Ballet class, the emphasis is on developing musicality, rhythm, flexibility, strength, and stamina. These children's ballet lessons focus on building a solid foundation for technical progression, helping students gain confidence and begin understanding the basics of ballet. Each level is structured to allow for safe and enjoyable growth in the art form.

Class Focus

What your child will learn

Every Pre-Ballet class blends play, structure, and discovery — six core areas of development woven into every lesson.

Musicality & Rhythm

Counting, listening, and moving in time to music — the language every dancer must learn first, taught through games, songs, and guided exercises.

Flexibility & Strength

Age-appropriate stretches and conditioning that build a healthy, capable body and prepare young dancers safely for years of training to come.

Stamina & Coordination

Combinations across the floor and at the barre that develop endurance, body awareness, and the ability to follow multi-step instructions.

Foundational Ballet Vocabulary

First and second positions, plié, tendu, sauté, and other building blocks introduced correctly so future progression is safe and sound.

Confidence & Joy

A warm, supportive classroom where young dancers feel safe to try, fall, get back up, and shine — building self-belief alongside skill.

Classroom Etiquette

Listening, taking turns, respecting the studio space, and learning to follow a teacher — habits that serve dancers (and children) for life.

Levels & Progression

A path that grows with your dancer

Age 3

First Steps

Creative movement meets ballet basics. Focus on imagination, listening, and falling in love with the studio.

Age 4–5

Building Vocabulary

Introduction of structured barre and center work. First true ballet positions and simple combinations.

Age 6+

Bridge to Academy

Stronger technical focus and longer attention spans prepare dancers to transition into the Dance Academy curriculum.

What to Expect

Inside a Pre-Ballet class

  • Warm, structured 45–60 minute classes designed around young attention spans.
  • Small class sizes for individual attention and a safe, focused environment.
  • Music, props, and creative imagery to make foundational technique come alive.
  • Annual performance opportunity in our year-end studio production.
Dress Code

What to wear to class

  • Leotard (any color)
  • Pink Tights
  • Pink Ballet Shoes
  • Hair pulled back in a bun or ponytail
Parent FAQ

Common questions

When can my child start?

As early as age 3, provided they are potty-trained and able to separate from a caregiver for the duration of class.

How often will they dance?

Most Pre-Ballet students attend one class per week. Older or more advanced preparatory students may attend two as they prepare to bridge into the Academy.

Do parents watch class?

To help dancers focus and build independence, classes are typically closed, with scheduled observation weeks throughout the year.

Ready to begin their ballet journey?

Whether your child is taking their first steps into the world of dance or building on previous experiences, our Pre-Ballet class is a safe and joyful place for them to grow.

Register or Inquire