What to expect at your child’s first ballet class!

If you’re preparing for your child’s very first ballet class, it’s completely normal to have questions—and maybe a few nerves. Parents often wonder: Will my child actually participate? Do I stay in the room? Do they need any experience at all?

At Tutu School Arvada, first ballet classes are thoughtfully designed to feel welcoming, gentle, and joyful—for both dancers and their grown-ups. Our approach is age-appropriate and play-based, meaning children learn through imagination, movement, and storytelling rather than pressure or perfection. Every child is invited to explore ballet in their own way.

Antes de llegar

What to Wear
Keep it simple and comfortable. A tutu and tights are lovely, but not required. Leggings, a t-shirt, or a dress your child can move in are perfect. Ballet slippers are optional for first classes—bare feet or socks are just fine. There’s no pressure to look a certain way.

What to Bring
A water bottle is helpful and everything else you will need is at the studio!

Arrival Timing & Check-In
We recommend arriving a five-ten minutes early to allow time for check-in, bathroom breaks, and a calm transition into the studio. Your Tutu Teacher will check you in and welcome you to the space. Feel free to take a picture with out “My First Tutu School Class” sign as a keepsake!

Class Structure: Step by Step

While every class is unique, most follow a gentle and predictable rhythm:

• Butterfly Circle – A friendly hello that helps dancers feel grounded and connected
• Movement Exploration & Basic Ballet Steps – Age-appropriate movements that build coordination and body awareness
• Music & Imagination – Creative use of music to inspire movement and joy
• Ballet Storytime – Imaginary adventures that bring ballet to life
• Ending Activity – A calm close with bows, applause, or a peaceful goodbye

---

No pasa nada si...

• Tu hijo/a en lugar de bailar.
• They need a break
• Participan en ráfagas cortas.
• Quieren que un adulto les tranquilice.

Participation looks different for every child, especially in a first class. Observing is learning, and comfort comes with time.

Después de clase: lo que los padres suelen notar

Many parents share that after class their child shows:

• Increased excitement or confidence
• Talking about ballet at home
• A sense of pride and accomplishment
• Curiosity about coming back

Sometimes the magic really settles in after they leave the studio.

Cómo continuar el viaje

After the first class, families can explore enrollment options and memberships that fit their schedule. Let your Tutu Teacher know if you would like to enroll and they will inform you of any promotions that are running.

There is no “right way” to do ballet at this age. Whether your child dances boldly, tiptoes in slowly, or watches from the sidelines, they are exactly where they need to be.

If you’re curious to see the magic for yourself, we invite you to book a trial class or visit us at Tutu School Arvada. We’d love to dance with you.