Our First Boys Hip Hop Class!

I have worked in early childhood for 11 years now, working with both boys and girls and I really enjoyed the moments and challenges it has bought me.

I had many parents approach me last year asking about whether I would offer dance classes for boys, as their boys love to dance but there wasn’t much out there in terms of dance class options. Unfortunately at that stage I was working full time in early child care and I was also teaching dance 7 hours a week, so I was completely maxed out.

When I opened up Indooroopilly Dance Co. I always had the vision to offer dance to both boys and girls. I believe dance is for everyone- no matter the gender, age or experience. This is what really excites me, knowing that I have created interesting and exciting opportunities for all and allow as many people as I can to experience the wonderful world of dance.

So on Wednesday our first 3-5 year old boys hip hop class started! 5 lovely young boys walked through the door, a bit hesitant and unsure at first but all wide eyed and ready for a new experience. Some joined in the whole time, while the others sat back and watched. I think we need to always take into consideration that children, just like us take a little bit of time to feel comfortable and confident in their surroundings. Take the first day of a new job for example. Walking through the door to a place you’ve never been before, meeting people you have never met and not knowing what to expect can be daunting. You are excited but also cautious and not quite your full self. It takes time to feel comfortable, to find your legs and to take it all in. These children have these very same feelings at their first dance class so I think it’s important that we come in with an open mind, less expectations and we persevere. If your child doesn’t join in the first lesson and straight away- That’s okay! They can sit back and watch, absorb, take in the atmosphere and maybe later on or the following lesson they will decide they would like to join in. And that’s when the magic really begins!

I look forward to growing the boys hip hop dance classes this year. I feel it is so important for boys to be introduced to a class like this because we focus on learning about different music beats, improving focus and concentration, movement and of course growing confidence. They may even remember those nervous feelings later in life and be glad they stuck with it, realising that its OK to take your time and let your true self shine through. Learning some super fun and exciting dance moves and groves are a pretty cool bonus too!

Carly