Dance Classes for Ages 2-12 in San Diego Inspiring Young Dancers Through Artistry and Technique
The Children’s Division at Scripps Performing Arts Academy provides a nurturing space for young dancers to develop confidence, creativity, and strong foundational skills. Designed for ages 2-12, our thoughtfully structured classes support every stage of learning, from first dance steps to more advanced movement, in an encouraging and family-friendly environment.
Get more information about our classes and schedule on the next page!
Why Choose Our Children's Division?
Our classes support healthy physical development at every stage, from improving balance and coordination in young dancers to building strength, posture, and precision in older students.
We nurture creativity through engaging choreography, musicality, and expressive movement, helping students develop confidence while discovering the joy of dance.
Dance classes encourage teamwork, communication, and confidence. Through group exercises and performances, students develop friendships and valuable social skills that last a lifetime.
Dance Classes Designed for Every Age & Skill Level
Our Children’s Division offers a progressive dance program designed to grow with your child. Starting at age 2, young dancers explore movement through creative exercises that enhance coordination, motor skills, and confidence in a fun and supportive setting. As they progress, students develop strong technique in ballet, tap, jazz, and hip hop—improving flexibility, rhythm, and body awareness. Older dancers refine their skills, artistry, and musicality through structured training, ensuring they feel both challenged and encouraged at every stage. Each class is tailored to the unique developmental needs of its age group, creating a positive and rewarding dance experience.
A joyful parent-and-child dance class designed to nurture coordination, rhythm, and creativity. Through playful movement, music, and guided activities, young dancers develop motor skills, musicality, and confidence in a warm and supportive environment. This special bonding experience fosters a love of dance while encouraging self-expression and social development.
Pre-Ballet (Ages 3.25 – 5)
- A delightful introduction to ballet designed to spark creativity, musicality, and coordination. Young dancers build confidence and focus while learning foundational movements in an imaginative and age-appropriate setting.
Ballet K1 (Ages 5 – 7)
- An engaging class where young dancers develop essential ballet techniques, strength, and musicality in a structured yet playful environment. Select classes also introduce tap to enhance rhythm and coordination.
Ballet I-IA/ Level 1 – Intermediate/ADV (Ages 7+)
- A progression-focused ballet class that refines posture, flexibility, and strength while expanding technical vocabulary. Dancers build a strong foundation through barre work, center exercises, and across-the-floor combinations.
Ballet II-IIA/ Level 2 – Level 2/ Level 2 ADV (Ages 8+) – 2 Classes/ week required
- With an emphasis on classical ballet technique, coordination, and musicality, this level introduces more complex movements while reinforcing foundational skills. Students also participate in complementary training, including Progressing Ballet Technique, Jazz, and Contemporary, to enhance their overall artistry and strength.
Ballet IIC/ Level 2 with Contemporary (Ages 8+)
- This hybrid class blends classical ballet technique with expressive contemporary movement, promoting fluidity, strength, and versatility. Dancers participate in additional training in Jazz, Progressing Ballet Technique, and Ballet Levels 1–2 to further enhance their skills.
Ballet III/ Level 3 (Ages 10+) – 2 Classes/ week required
- An intermediate-level ballet class focused on refining technique, precision, and artistry. Dancers strengthen their placement and execution through increased barre and center work while developing greater musicality and performance quality.
Ballet IIIC/ Level 3 with Contemporary (Ages 11+)
- A dynamic and immersive class that combines classical ballet training with expressive contemporary movement. Designed for dedicated pre-teen and teen dancers, this class refines technique, artistry, and versatility. Faculty placement required.
Progressive Ballet (PBT)
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A specialized conditioning class designed to enhance ballet technique, strength, and injury prevention. Using stability balls, resistance bands, and targeted exercises, dancers develop core strength, alignment, and muscle memory essential for ballet. This class helps improve balance, flexibility, and control, making it a valuable complement to traditional ballet training. Suitable for all levels.
Contemporary
- A fluid and expressive dance class that blends elements of ballet, jazz, and modern dance. Dancers will explore dynamic movement, musicality, and emotional expression through improvisation and choreography. The class includes a warm-up focusing on strength, flexibility, and technique, followed by floor work, traveling sequences, and creative exploration. Designed to develop artistry, control, and personal style in a supportive environment.
Jazz
- A high-energy class that builds strength, flexibility, and musicality through age-appropriate jazz choreography. After a dynamic warm-up, dancers will work on isolations, turns, jumps, and traveling steps across the floor. Using upbeat music, students will develop coordination, confidence, and performance skills in a fun and supportive environment.
Hip Hop
- A fun, high-energy class that teaches rhythm, coordination, and age-appropriate hip-hop choreography. After warming up with isolations, strength exercises, and stretching, dancers will move across the floor, working on rhythm, dynamic footwork, and freestyle movement. Using popular music, students will build confidence, musicality, and their unique style in an upbeat and supportive atmosphere.
Tap
- This class focuses on rhythm, musicality, and precision through fun and engaging tap combinations. Dancers will learn fundamental steps, including shuffles, flaps, and time steps, while improving coordination and timing. With a mix of traditional and contemporary music, students will develop strong footwork, listening skills, and a love for making music with their feet!
Recommended as a supplement to ballet classes. Musical theatre workshops are high-energy class that combines dance, acting, and storytelling to bring Broadway-style performances to life! Dancers will learn choreography inspired by classic and contemporary musicals while developing stage presence, expression, and confidence. Classes include a warm-up, character-driven movement, and performance skills, all set to show-stopping musical numbers. Perfect for young performers who love to dance, sing, and act!
Level 1 – *”Highlights of” (Ages 6 – 9)
(*A different theme every semester with a culminating presentation for family and friends.)
- A fun and engaging introduction to musical theatre, blending stage acting, singing, and dance with the upbeat energy of hip hop. Students build confidence, character, and performance skills through dynamic scene work and choreography, bringing their favorite Tangled moments to life.
Level 2 – *”Best of” (Ages 8 – 11)
(*A different theme every semester with a culminating presentation for family and friends.)
- Building on foundational skills, this class strengthens acting and vocal techniques while deepening character development. Through creative ensemble work and choreography inspired by Descendants, students gain confidence in public speaking, storytelling, and stage performance.
Level 3 – Scene to Song (Ages 10+) – Faculty Placement Required.
(*Culminating presentation for family and friends.)
- A challenging, faculty-placed class for serious young performers ready to refine their acting, vocal, and dance skills. Through advanced scene work, musical numbers, and ensemble collaboration, students deepen their ability to connect emotionally to their roles and deliver compelling performances.
*Performance Ensemble (Ages 11+) – By Audition Only.
(*Traveling Performances throughout San Diego County.)
- An audition-based, traveling ensemble for dedicated students passionate about acting, singing, and dancing. This advanced program provides intensive training in performance techniques, stage presence, and professional-level preparation for live productions.
Why Does Our Community Choose Scripps Performing Arts Academy?
Learn from industry leaders and experienced professionals who are passionate about nurturing the next generation of artists.
Our locations in Scripps Ranch and Carmel Valley offer top-notch training spaces, including professional training spaces, including professional flooring and performance-ready studios.
Our pre-professional programs blend technical excellence with opportunities for personal and creative fulfillment.
Our alumni have gone on to prestigious dance companies, university programs, and Broadway productions. With expert training and performance opportunities, we prepare dancers for success at the highest levels.
Building Strong Foundations for Lifelong Success
Many dance programs focus on recitals and competitions, but our Children's Division goes beyond performances. At Scripps Performing Arts Academy, we provide a structured, age-appropriate curriculum that builds confidence, technique, and creativity. Whether your child dances for fun or dreams of a future in the arts, our program lays the foundation for both.
Students primarily learn recital choreography rather than foundational technique.
Students may focus on trophies and high-energy performances rather than structured technical growth.
Lessons may focus on fun movement without a progressive syllabus for long-term skill development.
Young students may not receive the structured training necessary to pursue dance beyond a hobby.
Our curriculum builds strength, flexibility, and coordination at every developmental stage, ensuring young dancers are prepared for future training.
We balance creativity with technical excellence, encouraging self-expression alongside proper dance fundamentals.
Carefully designed programs meet each child’s physical and cognitive development, ensuring measurable growth year after year.
Whether a child continues dance recreationally or aspires to professional training, we provide a strong foundation that supports both paths.
An Exciting Introduction to Dance
Every class in our Children’s Division blends movement, music, and imagination to create a fun and engaging experience. Through rhythm-based games, creative exercises, and beginner choreography, young dancers explore balance, coordination, and expression in a supportive, pressure-free environment.
By incorporating storytelling, musicality, and playful themes, students develop motor skills, confidence, and creativity. Whether twirling to a melody or leaping to the beat, each child discovers the joy of movement while building a strong foundation for future dance training.
More Than Dance—Lessons for Life
Dance is more than movement—it’s an opportunity to build resilience, discipline, and teamwork. Our nurturing environment helps students develop patience, respect, and perseverance while setting and achieving personal goals. Each class encourages dancers to embrace challenges, celebrate progress, and grow in both skill and confidence.
The lessons learned at Scripps Performing Arts Academy extend far beyond dance. From problem-solving to collaboration, students develop valuable life skills that support them in academics, relationships, and future endeavors. Through every step, they build self-awareness, adaptability, and a strong sense of accomplishment.
Confidence Begins in Class
At Scripps Performing Arts Academy, we believe confidence is built through consistent practice, encouragement, and achievement. With personalized instruction and a supportive classroom setting, students develop skills at their own pace, gaining confidence in their abilities as they master new movements.
Class showcases and group activities allow dancers to share their progress in a positive, uplifting environment. Whether refining a new step or performing for their peers, students experience the joy of self-expression, accomplishment, and artistic growth with every class.
Why Families Love Scripps Performing Arts Academy
See what makes Scripps Performing Arts Academy a special place for young dancers! Parents and students share how our supportive, high-quality training builds confidence, creativity, and a love for dance. Whether it’s a first class or a step toward professional training, every journey is celebrated.
Scripps Performing Arts Academy is truly amazing! My daughter started with them at age 3.5 in their summer camps and is now 8 years old. She has taken part in ballet, hip hop and musical theater classes while attending SPAA. I have personally seen her grow from a toddler who cried when I dropped her off to a confident young lady who performs onstage for the annual nutcracker. The teachers are kind and gentle. They truly care about the children. The director has a vision that transcends ballet—teaching life skills, passion and love. I highly recommend SPAA. My daughter loves this school.
My daughter has been at this studio for 7 years and attends class at both locations. We could not be more please with the entire experience and teachers at SPAA!
My daughter has been attending since she was 4 in a mommy and me class. The teachers have been fantastic, not only instilling love for the arts but also discipline and emotional support as she has progressed tremendously and even faced injuries. I also love the focus on performances over competitions. I would highly recommend Ms. Miah, this academy and the affiliated Scripps Ballet Company.
My daughter enjoyed this summer musical camp! She loved the staff and the musical Matilda! Thank you!
My son really enjoyed the Willy Wonka Summer Camp at the Scripps Performing Arts Academy Scripps Ranch! He does not usually like camps, this is the first one he has ever liked. He enjoyed the activities, crafts, singing, and the performance they did. It was great, after only 4 days they put on a performance that was really cute. The teachers and staff were so positive, friendly, and welcoming. Even though this was my son't first real performing arts experience he felt comfortable there, he also made new friends. My son and I give The Scripps Performing Arts Academy Scripps Ranch 5 stars!
Our daughter Taylor attended Wish camp for a week and loved it! The performance at the end of the week was so sweet.
My daughter joined the Wish camp last summer, and she had a grand time. The performance was really cute and I was pretty impressed how quickly they were able to create a little show in a short amount of time. I think the teachers are very effective at teaching young kids. We definitely would come back for more.
My 9 year old daughter has been taking Musical Theater and Hip Hop for 2 years. She loves her teachers and is having a blast. I have loved watching her develop new skills beyond dancing. She has come out of her shell with some new found stage presence- memorizing lines, projecting her voice, and learning to work together as a team. Her mentors have built up her self confidence and made this experience fun for her. We love SPAA! Oh, we went to the annual Nutcracker Performance and were blown away by the talent! Highly recommend!
My daughters have been at SPAA since they were quite young. Their dance program is fantastic, and provides an excellent focus on technique. Not a competition studio, which some may not prefer (I am thankful!), but there are performance opportunities. The dancers take a very well-rounded variety of classes vs a pure focus on ballet. The upper devision is a huge commitment time wise, but SPAA is like a second home for these kids at that point. Or maybe a first home! Theatre classes when my kids were younger were AMAZING as well. And summer camps were always a blast.
My daughter attended the musical theater summer camp for the first time this year and absolutely loved it. She came home every day telling us how much fun she was having. They only had four days to prepare and everyone did so great knowing their lines and positions. I was very impressed! This is definitely something my daughter is passionate about so I am so glad there is an opportunity for her to continue lessons during the school year.
My daughter enjoyed this summer musical camp! She loved the staff and the musical Matilda! Thank you!
My daughter had a very enjoyable experience at camp.
We are here to vouch for Miss Melissa’s skill in teaching Ballet II. Lilah had Miss Melissa as her teacher and loved her. I was also impressed with her teaching skills and her ability to keep up the pace. The students enjoy her class very much!! She also focuses on her students individually. She is very much aware of their individual progress!
My daughter loves her pre-ballet class and her summer camp “Frozen”. Ms Mellisa is her favorite teacher. She’s always happy to go to the class and enjoying so much. Thanks so much for all the teachers at Scripps Performing Art.
SRPAA has been the best intro into the dance world for my 3 yr old daughter. She has been raving about the camps since her second day. Three weeks of camps later, she’s doing ad hoc performances for anyone who will give her the opportunity!! She’s pretty discerning and doesn’t open up quickly to new people, but she definitely found her people here. I have since convinced a few friends to send their kids and have only heard great things from them as well. I’m signing up my 5 yr old son for hip hop classes and pre ballet for my daughter for fall and can’t wait to see their confidence continue grow on and off the stage!!
My 6-year old had an amazing camp experience at SPAA! The content was age appropriate, the program was organized, and the performance at the end of the camp was just adorable!
We love SPAA! The staff is excellent and the ballet program is extremely positive and so well done! We've been a part of Scripps since my daughter was 2yrs old and she'll be 15 soon!
Get more information about our classes and schedule on the next page!
FAQs
Unlike traditional dance schools that focus on recitals or competitions, our Children’s Division provides a structured, age-appropriate curriculum that builds strong technique, creativity, and confidence. Our program ensures every child progresses in a supportive, non-competitive environment while developing skills that benefit them in dance and beyond.
Dance helps children build coordination, strength, musicality, and self-confidence while encouraging self-expression and discipline. Our classes use engaging storytelling, rhythm-based exercises, and imaginative movement to support motor skill development, focus, and social skills in an age-appropriate way.
Our program is divided into age-based and skill-level classes to ensure proper development. For younger children, we offer Tiny Dancer n’ Me and Pre-Ballet to introduce movement and rhythm. As they progress, they transition into structured ballet, jazz, hip hop, and musical theatre classes designed to build confidence and technical skills at the right pace.
No! Our Children’s Division welcomes beginners as well as students with prior experience. Our curriculum is designed to meet dancers at their current level and help them grow through guided, professional instruction.
Each class is designed to be engaging, structured, and developmentally appropriate. Younger dancers explore movement through games, storytelling, and music, while older students focus on building strong technical foundations in ballet, jazz, hip hop, and musical theatre. Classes emphasize progressive skill-building in a nurturing, fun environment.
Unlike competition-based studios, we focus on skill progression rather than frequent performances. However, students have opportunities to showcase their progress through in-class demonstrations and age-appropriate stage performances, helping them gain confidence and stage presence without the pressure of competition.
Additional Benefits of Our Children's Division
Dance teaches children to embrace challenges, manage emotions, and develop confidence in a supportive setting.
By moving to rhythm and music, students refine their sense of timing, beat recognition, and musical expression.
Classes enhance balance, agility, and motor skills, helping young dancers move with control and precision.
Performing and collaborating with peers helps children build friendships, teamwork, and self-assurance in group settings.
Get more information about our classes and schedule on the next page!