Ballet & Identity Program

Santa Monica Family YMCA Spring Session 2026
YOUTH BALLET CLASSES

Learn about “Ballet & Identity” programs

Program Description

This is an engaging educational program created by the “Ballet & Identity” team for children, designed to open their creativity, teach them how to express their wishes and thoughts, encourage them to raise their academic standards, and build character and confidence.

Each session is a 12-week class, which culminates in a recital!

Each class includes

  • Floor/mat work – development of physical ability;
  • Rhythm and musicality games – developing a sense of rhythm in children and helping them move in accordance with the character, tempo, and rhythm of a particular piece of music;
  • Introduction to basic ballet vocabulary – correct placement of the body, arms, legs, and head;
  • Short choreographic etudes – exploring various dance styles and choreographies for children.

Program Objectives/Learning Goals

  • To explore movement, rhythm, and creativity through ballet, helping children develop focus, coordination, expression, and a sense of self. 
  • To improve students’ educational readiness and progress, while helping them grow emotionally and physically.
  • Encourage youth to raise their academic standards, build character and confidence, and learn from inspiring role models through our monthly Ballet & Identity Talk Series.
  • Develop youth leadership potential. Will inspire youth to develop the skills they need to lead positive change in their communities.
  • Provide a quality afterschool program.

More on Child Development & Classical Ballet…

Program Description for kids 6-10 yrs

This is an engaging and educational program for children designed to learn the fundamentals of classical ballet while discovering their sense of identity. The program incorporates a unique aspect of learning about the world around us through dance and arts.

The 12-weeks curriculum with recital on week 13th combines traditional ballet training with creative tasks, improvisation, and group work. Students will not only learn ballet technique but also develop self-expression, discipline, and confidence in a supportive environment.

Class Structure (90 minutes) for kids 6-10 yrs

The class will have two parts. During the first part, kids will learn basic classical ballet positions and movements which will build balance, coordination, focus and more. The teacher will explain the value of the movements and their practical application in life. 

During the second part of the class the kids will participate in a character play, where through the music and movement they can be a flower, a bird, or even a broom. Kids will get to use their imagination, appreciate the culture of ballet and learn about the world around them. During this time students will prepare for a recital as an exciting culmination of the class.

1. Floor barre (Parterre work) 

● Gentle warm-up, posture, flexibility 
● Strengthening, core stability, leg placement 

2. Barre Work 

● Fundamental ballet exercises for technique and coordination 
● Building balance and strength 

3. Center Practice 

● Movement combinations without support 
● Turns, jumps, and expressive use of arms and upper body 

4. Rhythm & Creativity 

● Musical games and clapping exercises 
● Improvisation tasks for self-expression 
● Creative projects (storytelling through dance, short choreographies, simple crafts) 

5. Closing & Reflection Circle 

● Gentle stretching to cool down 
● Sharing impressions and reflecting on the class experience

Child Development & Classical Ballet 

Classical ballet significantly aids child development by fostering physical, mental, and social growth. It improves strength, coordination, flexibility, and posture. Mentally, it enhances focus, discipline, and memory through choreography. Socially, it builds confidence, self-expression, and teamwork. 

Physical Development

  • Strength & Flexibility: Develops long, strong muscles and improves joint flexibility.
  • Motor Skills: Enhances coordination, balance, and body control.
  • Posture: Encourages a straight back, lifted chest, and proper alignment. 

Cognitive & Mental Growth

  • Focus & Discipline: Teaches children to listen carefully, follow instructions, and maintain concentration.
  • Memory: Memorizing routines improves cognitive skills.
  • Neurodevelopment: Involves rhythmic movement, which helps build neural pathways.
  • Motor Planning: Enhances the ability to plan and execute a series of actions. 

Emotional & Social Development

  • Confidence: Boosts self-esteem as children master new skills and perform in front of others.
  • Expression: Provides a creative outlet to express emotions through music and movement.
  • Social Skills: Fosters teamwork, patience, and the ability to follow instructions in a group setting. 

Key Considerations

  • Ideal Age: Ballet is often recommended for children as young as 5, but foundational classes can start earlier.
  • Beyond Dance: The discipline learned in ballet (e.g., dedication, punctuality) translates to better performance in school and daily life. 

Photo Credits
Photo by cottonbro studio: https://www.pexels.com/photo/ballet-dancers-standing-on-gray-floor-6714611