“A Chance To Dance” - Adaptive Dance for students ages 5-21 with intellectual disabilities at Vibe Performing Arts
Welcome to our Adaptive Dance Program! 💃🕺
Our mission is to create a fun, supportive, and inclusive dance environment where students can experience the joy of dance, movement, and social interactions at their own pace. We recognize that every child is unique, and we celebrate their individual abilities, strengths, and interests. Our goal is to meet each dancer where they are, celebrate their strengths, and create a space where they can grow, connect, and have fun.
First Steps:
By learning more about your child through this questionnaire, we can ensure that each class is safe, engaging, and tailored to meet their individual needs—while providing ample opportunities for creativity, confidence, and connection. We believe every child deserves the chance to move, express themselves, and experience the joy of dance.
This initial program is designed for children with intellectual disabilities who meet the Class Participation Guidelines described below. As our program expands, we hope to offer more opportunities for children of all abilities.
Class Participation Guidelines(For students aged 5-21 with intellectual disabilities)
We are so excited to offer a safe, supportive, and fun space for dancers of all abilities! To help ensure that every child has a positive experience, we ask that dancers in this class meet a few basic readiness requirements.
✅ Dancers should be able to:
✨ Our goal is to create a joyful and encouraging dance experience where every dancer can shine! If you’re unsure whether this class is the right fit, we’d be happy to discuss it with you and help you make an informed decision.
Class goals:
🌟 Adaptive Dance – Parent FAQ 🌟
What is adaptive dance?
Adaptive dance is a fun and inclusive class designed for children and teens of all abilities. The focus is on building confidence, coordination, creativity, and self-expression through movement and music. Unlike a traditional dance class, adaptive dance is flexible—each activity is designed so that every student can participate in a way that feels comfortable and enjoyable for them. Our goal is to celebrate each dancer’s unique strengths while fostering a supportive community where everyone feels a sense of belonging.
Who are these classes for?
Vibe’s initial adaptive dance classes will be for children ages 5-21 with intellectual disabilities. Please refer to our full class participation guidelines for details on eligibility requirements.
How are classes adapted?
We tailor each class to meet the unique needs of our students, ensuring every dancer can participate in a way that feels comfortable and successful. Adaptations may include visual cues, simplified choreography, extra time for learning steps, sensory-friendly options, or one-on-one support when needed.
Our teachers use a variety of tools and strategies to support learning, such as:
What is the class size and teacher ratio?
Classes are kept small, allowing every dancer to receive personalized attention. Our teachers are trained in adaptive dance methods, and assistants are often present to provide extra support. Our teaching staff will include two certified special education teachers, one dance teacher, and support assistants as needed.
Can parents or caregivers stay in the classroom during class?
Yes! Parents and caregivers are always welcome to observe via our waiting room windows or TVs. The goal is for the dancer to achieve independence in the studio room; however, a caregiver can be present, especially if it helps the dancer feel more comfortable. Over time, many dancers enjoy participating more independently.
What should my child wear?
Comfort is key! Leggings, sweatpants, t-shirts, or dancewear are all welcome. Dance shoes are optional—clean sneakers, ballet slippers, or socks with grip work just fine.
How do you handle different needs in class?
We know every dancer is unique, and we celebrate that! Our teachers adapt lessons to fit each child’s abilities, interests, and comfort level. This may include offering movement choices, providing visual or verbal cues, adjusting choreography, or building in breaks when needed. We also welcome mobility aids, sensory supports, and any tools that help your child participate fully. Before classes begin, we encourage families to share information about their dancer’s strengths and needs so we can work together to create the best possible experience. Our goal is to make sure every dancer feels included, confident, and successful.
What if my child struggles to participate?
That’s completely okay! Every dancer has different comfort levels, and participation may look different from child to child—or even from week to week. Some dancers jump right in, while others may need time to observe before joining. We honor all forms of participation and celebrate each dancer’s progress, no matter how small. Our teachers use encouragement, adaptations, and breaks when needed to help students feel successful. The most important thing is that your child feels safe, supported, and joyful while participating in the class.
How do you keep dancers safe?
Your child’s safety is our top priority. Our teachers are trained to create a safe and supportive environment by using age-appropriate movement, spotting when needed, and ensuring dancers warm up properly. We keep class sizes small so that each student receives individual attention, and we tailor movements to match every dancer’s abilities. The studio space is kept clear of hazards and is accessible for individuals with mobility aids. We also work closely with families to understand any medical needs, allergies, or accommodations in advance, so we can respond appropriately. Most importantly, we focus on building trust and confidence, so dancers feel secure while having a great time.
How do you address behavioral challenges in class?
We understand that every dancer has unique needs, and sometimes big emotions or behaviors arise during class. Our teachers use patience, positive reinforcement, and clear expectations to help dancers succeed. If a child needs a break, we offer a quiet space or a short pause before returning to the group. We also partner with families to learn strategies that work best for each dancer so we can provide consistency and support. Above all, our goal is to create a safe, encouraging environment where every dancer feels respected and able to participate at their own pace.
What if my child has difficulty following along or needs frequent breaks?
That’s absolutely okay! We understand that every dancer learns and engages in their own way. If your child needs extra time to catch up, we’ll slow things down, simplify movements, or offer alternative ways to participate. Breaks are always welcomed—students may step aside, use a quiet space, or rejoin the group when they’re ready. Our teachers are trained to support different learning styles and energy levels, and we celebrate progress at each dancer’s pace. The most important thing is that your child feels safe, supported, and joyful in class.
How long are the classes, and how often do they meet?
Initially, classes will run in 4- to 6-week sessions, each lasting 45 minutes per week.
How do you communicate with parents? We’ll keep you updated on class schedules, performances, and your dancer’s progress. Teachers are always happy to chat after class or by email if you’d like to check in.
How do you communicate with parents?We’ll keep you updated on class schedules, performances, and your dancer’s progress. Teachers are always happy to chat after class or by email if you’d like to check in.
Welcome to our Adaptive Dance Program! 💃🕺
Our mission is to create a fun, supportive, and inclusive dance environment where students can experience the joy of dance, movement, and social interactions at their own pace. We recognize that every child is unique, and we celebrate their individual abilities, strengths, and interests. Our goal is to meet each dancer where they are, celebrate their strengths, and create a space where they can grow, connect, and have fun.
First Steps:
- Please follow the link ABOVE IN THE BOX "Parent Questionnaire."
- Email: [email protected] to express your interest in this class. We will provide you with more information promptly.
- Once we receive your questionnaire, we will contact you with further registration details.
By learning more about your child through this questionnaire, we can ensure that each class is safe, engaging, and tailored to meet their individual needs—while providing ample opportunities for creativity, confidence, and connection. We believe every child deserves the chance to move, express themselves, and experience the joy of dance.
This initial program is designed for children with intellectual disabilities who meet the Class Participation Guidelines described below. As our program expands, we hope to offer more opportunities for children of all abilities.
Class Participation Guidelines(For students aged 5-21 with intellectual disabilities)
We are so excited to offer a safe, supportive, and fun space for dancers of all abilities! To help ensure that every child has a positive experience, we ask that dancers in this class meet a few basic readiness requirements.
✅ Dancers should be able to:
- Be within the class age range. This class is for ages 5-21
- Participate in a group setting with peers.
- Follow simple directions (1–2 steps) with occasional reminders.
- Walk independently (or with minimal assistance).
- Engage safely in activities such as stretching, moving across the floor, and learning simple dance steps.
- Enjoy music and movement with others
💬 Communication & Social Skills - Understand basic instructions such as “stop,” “freeze,” or “arms up.”
- Express needs verbally or through gestures/signs.
- Take turns, share space, and interact with classmates in a kind and respectful manner.
- Demonstrates safe behavior toward self and others (no hitting, biting, or aggressive actions).
- Can tolerate waiting turns and sharing space with other dancers.
- Respond positively to redirection if they become overstimulated.
- Stay engaged in a 30–45 minute class with breaks as needed.
- Has experience in other group settings (school, camps, therapies).
- Be toilet-trained (or have a parent/guardian available to assist if needed).
- Manage simple needs (like drinking water or adjusting shoes) with a little help.
- Participate independently in class (parents are welcome to observe or remain nearby).
- No medical restrictions that would prevent safe participation in physical activity (doctor’s clearance if needed).
- Complete a health form, including allergies, medications, or seizure history.
- Complete a liability waiver
- Ensure your dancer arrives in comfortable dance attire and shoes.
- Stay on-site.
- Share any strategies that help your child feel supported and successful.
✨ Our goal is to create a joyful and encouraging dance experience where every dancer can shine! If you’re unsure whether this class is the right fit, we’d be happy to discuss it with you and help you make an informed decision.
Class goals:
- Encourage motor coordination and body awareness.
- Support self-expression and communication.
- Develop social interaction and turn-taking skills.
- Provide opportunities for fun, exercise, regulation, and creativity.
- Learn a few “dance” terms such as plié, first position, chasse, etc
🌟 Adaptive Dance – Parent FAQ 🌟
What is adaptive dance?
Adaptive dance is a fun and inclusive class designed for children and teens of all abilities. The focus is on building confidence, coordination, creativity, and self-expression through movement and music. Unlike a traditional dance class, adaptive dance is flexible—each activity is designed so that every student can participate in a way that feels comfortable and enjoyable for them. Our goal is to celebrate each dancer’s unique strengths while fostering a supportive community where everyone feels a sense of belonging.
Who are these classes for?
Vibe’s initial adaptive dance classes will be for children ages 5-21 with intellectual disabilities. Please refer to our full class participation guidelines for details on eligibility requirements.
How are classes adapted?
We tailor each class to meet the unique needs of our students, ensuring every dancer can participate in a way that feels comfortable and successful. Adaptations may include visual cues, simplified choreography, extra time for learning steps, sensory-friendly options, or one-on-one support when needed.
Our teachers use a variety of tools and strategies to support learning, such as:
- Mirroring techniques to model movement step-by-step
- Partner and group activities to encourage teamwork and connection
- Call-and-response movement games to build confidence and engagement
- Social stories to prepare dancers for class routines and performances
- Choice boards and picture cards to give students a voice in their movement
- Emotion thermometers to help dancers identify and express how they’re feeling
What is the class size and teacher ratio?
Classes are kept small, allowing every dancer to receive personalized attention. Our teachers are trained in adaptive dance methods, and assistants are often present to provide extra support. Our teaching staff will include two certified special education teachers, one dance teacher, and support assistants as needed.
Can parents or caregivers stay in the classroom during class?
Yes! Parents and caregivers are always welcome to observe via our waiting room windows or TVs. The goal is for the dancer to achieve independence in the studio room; however, a caregiver can be present, especially if it helps the dancer feel more comfortable. Over time, many dancers enjoy participating more independently.
What should my child wear?
Comfort is key! Leggings, sweatpants, t-shirts, or dancewear are all welcome. Dance shoes are optional—clean sneakers, ballet slippers, or socks with grip work just fine.
How do you handle different needs in class?
We know every dancer is unique, and we celebrate that! Our teachers adapt lessons to fit each child’s abilities, interests, and comfort level. This may include offering movement choices, providing visual or verbal cues, adjusting choreography, or building in breaks when needed. We also welcome mobility aids, sensory supports, and any tools that help your child participate fully. Before classes begin, we encourage families to share information about their dancer’s strengths and needs so we can work together to create the best possible experience. Our goal is to make sure every dancer feels included, confident, and successful.
What if my child struggles to participate?
That’s completely okay! Every dancer has different comfort levels, and participation may look different from child to child—or even from week to week. Some dancers jump right in, while others may need time to observe before joining. We honor all forms of participation and celebrate each dancer’s progress, no matter how small. Our teachers use encouragement, adaptations, and breaks when needed to help students feel successful. The most important thing is that your child feels safe, supported, and joyful while participating in the class.
How do you keep dancers safe?
Your child’s safety is our top priority. Our teachers are trained to create a safe and supportive environment by using age-appropriate movement, spotting when needed, and ensuring dancers warm up properly. We keep class sizes small so that each student receives individual attention, and we tailor movements to match every dancer’s abilities. The studio space is kept clear of hazards and is accessible for individuals with mobility aids. We also work closely with families to understand any medical needs, allergies, or accommodations in advance, so we can respond appropriately. Most importantly, we focus on building trust and confidence, so dancers feel secure while having a great time.
How do you address behavioral challenges in class?
We understand that every dancer has unique needs, and sometimes big emotions or behaviors arise during class. Our teachers use patience, positive reinforcement, and clear expectations to help dancers succeed. If a child needs a break, we offer a quiet space or a short pause before returning to the group. We also partner with families to learn strategies that work best for each dancer so we can provide consistency and support. Above all, our goal is to create a safe, encouraging environment where every dancer feels respected and able to participate at their own pace.
What if my child has difficulty following along or needs frequent breaks?
That’s absolutely okay! We understand that every dancer learns and engages in their own way. If your child needs extra time to catch up, we’ll slow things down, simplify movements, or offer alternative ways to participate. Breaks are always welcomed—students may step aside, use a quiet space, or rejoin the group when they’re ready. Our teachers are trained to support different learning styles and energy levels, and we celebrate progress at each dancer’s pace. The most important thing is that your child feels safe, supported, and joyful in class.
How long are the classes, and how often do they meet?
Initially, classes will run in 4- to 6-week sessions, each lasting 45 minutes per week.
How do you communicate with parents? We’ll keep you updated on class schedules, performances, and your dancer’s progress. Teachers are always happy to chat after class or by email if you’d like to check in.
How do you communicate with parents?We’ll keep you updated on class schedules, performances, and your dancer’s progress. Teachers are always happy to chat after class or by email if you’d like to check in.
