Ballerina Girl: The Special Needs Dance Class

For 13 years, I took ballet lessons.  I was not graceful and spandex was not the most flattering, but I loved moving to the music.  So when the opportunity arose for Ellie to be in a dance class, I rushed out and bought the little leotard, tights, and dance slippers hoping to pass on my joy of ballet to Ellie.

This is a special dance class.  A class where the teacher uses sign language.  A class where high school dancers help the teacher with the children.  A class where every child has unique challenges.  A class where Ellie is not the only hyperactive child running around like a wild banshee.  A class where she is not the only child wearing pull-ups (did you know that most dance centers require your child to be potty trained even if they have special needs? at least that is what I found.) There is a lot of patience and acceptance.  Two of the most important components of this class.

I am excited for Ellie.  She enjoys moving to the music and trying to mimic moves.  Also, I am hoping that she will learn to follow directions in this class.  Learn to decrease her impulsivity and wait her turn tippy-toeing across the dance floor.

How did her first class go?  She sat longer in the little circle time than her IEP dictates.  Success!  Then she spent the rest of the class back and forth running across the dance floor.  Little turkey!  She has a ways to go, but she smiled throughout the class and was worn out at the end.  Plus, they are letting us come back this week!