Young Children’s Division (18 mos to Age 5)

About the Program
Our Young Children’s Division introduces children to the joy of dance through imaginative stories, music and games, while providing developmentally focused movement experiences.
Our instructors employ collective knowledge of early childhood development and philosophy of adult/child interaction when managing the content and delivery of this carefully crafted curriculum.
Classes are narrative in nature as students are led through a series of movement stories and ballet-based activities that appeal to both girls and boys. The curriculum is designed to enhance physical, cognitive, social and emotional skills through collaborative and cooperative games.
All students taking classes at both locations have the opportunity to view Ballet Austin’s professional dancers rehearse for upcoming performances in our downtown studios.
Ballet Austin Academy Benefits
Training at the Ballet Austin Academy offers many benefits for both the student and family:
- Receive The Sunday Jete’, the Young Children’s Division weekly newsletter
- Tickets to Ballet Austin performances at The Long Center, including The Nutcracker, are offered at a 20-percent discount.
- Discounts to Butler Center for Dance & Fitness classes and workshops for parents.
- FREE BeWell Talks specifically designed for Academy parents and students.
- FREE or reduced-rate parking, on site or nearby.
Locations:
Our Young Children’s Division classes are offered at several Austin locations. The curriculum, faculty, and dress code requirements are identical at all locations.
DOWNTOWN AUSTIN
Ballet Austin
501 W. 3rd Street Map
BALLET AUSTIN @ THE J
Jewish Community Center (JCC)
7300 Hart Lane, Austin, Texas 78731 Map
BALLET AUSTIN @ THE J OUTDOOR PAVILION
Jewish Community Center (JCC)
7300 Hart Lane, Austin, Texas 78731 Map
Pending Stage 4 COVID-19 Guidelines
Given developing information concerning Austin’s health and safety guidance related to COVID-19, Ballet Austin is temporarily postponing the opening of 2021/22 registration for the Young Children’s Division (at our downtown and JCC locations) in order to process the new information to ensure the health and safety of our youngest students (ages 8 months to 5 years).
We look forward to opening YCD registration as soon as we consider this new guidance.
Ballet Austin’s COVID-19 protocols reflect the recommendations of the CDC, federal, state, local health officials, and the guidance of Ballet Austin’s medical advisor. With the health and safety of our students and staff as our highest priority, Ballet Austin’s protocols are cautious and evolving. As new recommendations are announced, we will consider them carefully and will share updates to our protocols, when warranted.
Class Descriptions and Schedules
Dance with Me (Ages 18 months – 2 years)
Dance with Me is open to children (accompanied by an adult) who are 18 months to 2 years old by September 1, 2021.
Parents, grandparents, or caregivers join the fun in this sensory-rich movement experience that keeps children engaged with stories, dance games, rhythm and songs while learning new skills. Dance with Me is the perfect foundation for Creative Dance classes.
Registration for In-Studio classes downtown will open soon!
Registration for In-Studio classes at Ballet Austin @ the J will open soon!
Registration for Outdoor classes at Ballet Austin @ the J will open soon!

Next Steps (Age 2)
Next Steps is open to children (accompanied by an adult) who are 2 years old by September 1, 2021.
Next Steps is the perfect transitional class for young children who are becoming more independent. Parents, grandparents, or caregivers are still able to join the fun in this sensory-rich movement experience that keeps children engaged with stories, dance games, rhythm and songs while learning new skills. As the year progresses, the aim is to slowly withdraw parent involvement so children are ready to take on Creative Movement with confidence and excitement.
Registration for In-Studio classes downtown will open soon!
Registration for In-Studio classes at Ballet Austin @ the J will open soon!
Registration for Outdoor classes at Ballet Austin @ the J will open soon!
Creative Dance (Ages 3 & 4)
Creative Dance 3 and 4 is open to children who have turned 3 or 4, respectively, by September 1, 2021.
The Creative Dance syllabus is designed to gently introduce our youngest students to a structured and safe classroom environment, while instilling the physical and emotional confidence to explore and create. Classes are narrative in nature as students are led through a series of movement stories and ballet-based activities that appeal to both girls and boys. Social skills are also developed through collaborative and cooperative games.
Registration for In-Studio classes downtown will open soon!
Registration for In-Studio classes at Ballet Austin @ the J will open soon!
Registration for Outdoor classes at Ballet Austin @ the J will open soon!

Creative Ballet (Age 5)
Creative Ballet is open to children who have turned 5 by September 1, 2021.
Creative Ballet is a perfect balance of ballet basic’s and creative dance. Children are developing their technique, gaining body awareness and refining basic skills, while still having imaginative and creative dance experiences. They are taking a more active role in their own learning, acquiring the tools to collaborate, choreograph and exchange ideas with their peers. Students advance through Creative Ballet ready to step into the more structured world of Pre-Ballet.
Registration for In-Studio classes downtown will open soon!
Registration for In-Studio classes at Ballet Austin @ the J will open soon!
Registration for Outdoor classes at Ballet Austin @ the J will open soon!
Registration
Students should be enrolled based on their age on September 1, 2021. Young Children’s Division classes meet once a week for 45 minutes in duration.
Enrollment will open soon.
If you have questions or need help registering, contact our Academy Registrar at 512.501.8703 or via email.
