The Little Gym of Scarsdale and Mt. Kisco has a new program — Dance The Little Gym Way — which teaches kids how to move and groove with ballet and tap techniques. Along the way, they’re increasing coordination and motor skills, and building self-confidence. Jeff Freeman, co-owner of both gyms, says that the class is designed to be half ballet/tap dance, and half gymnastic skills — providing a great base for anyone who wants to continue on in ballet, tap or gymnastics, as well as those who just want a fun way to exercise.
“It’s something children enjoy doing. It’s incorporating motor skills and development. And it’s another way to incorporate fitness at a young age and help them become part of a more fit America,” says Freeman.
The program started out at only a few designated Little Gyms, but because of its success with kids and parents, it has expanded to all four Little Gyms Freeman owns. The gym is even considering implementing more creative movement classes, like a cheerleading program. “The goal is to keep it moving and fresh, and have new ideas and new classes all the time,” Freeman explains.
One of Dance The Little Gym Way’s many fun features is a “Show Week” at the end of each 20-week semester, where kids can perform their new moves in front of mom and dad. As in the Olympics (which, after this class, they might just attend some day), they march out in an opening ceremony, pretend to light the Olympic torch, bravely introduce themselves, and proceed into the fully organized show which includes tumbling, balance beam, and yes, dancing. The kids even get shiny gold metals at the end, because in this program, everyone is a winner.
For more information, visit The Little Gym at www.tlgscarsdaleny.com for Scarsdale (914-722-0072) and www.tlgmtkiscony.com for Mt. Kisco (914-241-1444).
