Ballet vs. Jazz vs. Acro: Which Dance Style is Best for Your Child?

Apr 15

Choosing the right dance style for your child can be exciting but also overwhelming. With so many options available, how do you decide whether **ballet**, **jazz, or** **acro** is the best fit? Each style offers unique benefits and suits different personalities and interests. Let’s break down these popular dance styles to help you make the best choice!

Ballet: Grace, Discipline, and Strong Foundations

Best for: Children who enjoy structure, storytelling, and elegant movement.
Key Benefits: ✔ Develops posture, flexibility, and coordination
✔ Builds discipline, focus, and attention to detail
✔ Establishes strong technique useful for all dance styles

Ballet is a great starting point for any young dancer. It provides a solid foundation of movement, balance, and body control. At MWDA’s ballet classes in NW Calgary, we emphasize a supportive, non-competitive environment where children can grow in confidence and artistry.

Jazz: High Energy, Rhythm, and Expression

Best for: Kids who love upbeat music and dynamic movement.
Key Benefits: ✔ Improves strength, agility, and musicality
✔ Encourages self-expression and creativity
✔ Introduces fast-paced footwork and stylized movements

Jazz dance is fun, energetic, and a great way to develop performance skills. If your child enjoys pop music and loves to move with excitement, jazz dance for kids is a fantastic option at MWDA.

Acro: Strength, Flexibility, and Acrobatics

Best for: Kids who love tumbling, gymnastics, and movement challenges.
Key Benefits: ✔ Enhances flexibility, balance, and coordination
✔ Builds strength through controlled acrobatics
✔ Combines dance and athleticism in a unique way

Acro dance benefits children by blending gymnastics-inspired movements with dance technique. It’s perfect for kids who enjoy flips, tricks, and dynamic movement while still incorporating artistry and flow.

Which Dance Style is Right for Your Child?

If your child loves graceful movement and storytelling, start with ballet.
If they enjoy energetic, expressive routines, jazz might be the best fit.
If they are always tumbling, climbing, and flipping, try acro!

Try a Class at MWDA!

At McDonald-Wilson Dance Academy, we offer ballet, jazz, and acro dance classes in NW Calgary for kids of all ages. Whether your child is brand new to dance or looking to explore a new style, our experienced instructors are here to guide them in a fun and supportive environment.

✅ Explore our class options
✅ Contact us to schedule a free trial class
✅ Register via email!

Help your child discover their love for dance with MWDA—we can’t wait to welcome you to our studio!