Students develop a strong understanding of basic ballet and tap technique, concepts, and vocabulary through age-appropriate exercises that emphasize body awareness. Explorations with imagery, music, and movement nurture self-expression, discovery, and making choices. Children's cognitive abilities are challenged as they create and perform choreographed and improvisational dances. Attire: -Children wear black leotards and tights or black leggings (or shorts) and a form-fitting, black top. -Ballet slippers and tap shoes (any color) are required. (Students may choose to borrow shoes from our collection. Please ask.) Classes run Oct. 6- Dec. 15, 10:30-11:30am. NO class on Nov. 24. The end of session showcase is on Dec. 15. About the instructor: Susan Paino, Early Education Director- Susan brings a unique combination of experience, training, and passion to her work. A classically trained ballet dancer, her teaching practice is rooted in story-telling through movement. Susan has been the lead dance teacher for the Chelsea Youth Theatre education program for more than ten years. She is an advocate for arts in education and leads creative movement story time programs at public libraries throughout Greater Boston. Susan holds a Massachusetts Teacher Certificate in Early Childhood Education and is a Massachusetts Certified Lead Preschool Teacher.