Family Friendly Casino Style Salsa Class

I have had feedback from a member that they'd like to have events that are family friendly, where they can bring their children. And many other members have kids who sometimes attend classes and events in the area.

So.. on July 13, at the Avalon Studio (15 Mellor Ave; Catonsville, MD), we'll have a Salsa class, with particular provisions for children. Here is the deal:

Kids 12 and over will be welcome to hop into the beginners class for at least 45 mins. Then we'll go on to more and more advanced levels as usual, and they are welcome to watch those classes. I'll bring some decks of cards and perhaps other things for them to do, as well.

In between the beginners class and the intermediate/advanced levels, we'll take a short break during which I'll conduct a mini-class to introduce Salsa basics to any children ages 5 to 11.
I'll work with them and then tell them at the end of this mini-session what to practice on their own so they can also practice outside of class. And the parents can listen so they know how to work with their kids to help shape and develop their dancing skills.

And at this meetup, one or two teen groups will do short performances---to inspire other kids who like to dance. Anna Damen, the director of one of these groups will be there helping out, in case you want to inquire about her group for your child or a teenager you know.

We'll include in the class, the usual intermediate/advanced level moves as well, FYI.

If you have a child under age 5, the best thing you can do is just bring them (that day or any time!) to watch class. Kids develop a sense of rhythm by watching people move in time to music. Plus, the best way to teach a child to enjoy dancing is to have them observe others having a great time dancing themselves!! It's contagious. I am sometimes asked about teaching toddlers and this is always my advice. There is never any charge for someone of any age to come and watch the class. It's actually fun to watch, and people learn a surprising amount by just watching!

(Here is a personal side note: Though not Hispanic, I grew up myself in a home with parents who absolutely loved to dance. They had no training and didn't know many moves, but their love of dancing was deeply felt. Music was going constantly in the house, mostly "show tunes," and my mom would pull the drapes and let loose on a regular basis.
I strongly believe that this exposure to music and dance shaped both my rhythmic and harmonic ear, as well as instilling in my heart a great joy in dancing. When my mother passed away, at her funeral, every single person who spoke about her mentioned how much she enjoyed dancing. I was surprised they all knew that about her, actually.)

OK. Back to the event details:

The cost of this class will be $10 for adults, as usual. The cost for any children under 12 is free and for kids 12 to 18 it's $5.
For directions to this studio, go to the "Directions" page on the site DanceInTime.com. The studio is very easy to find FYI!

After this class, we can take a poll and if people are interested in doing so, we can go somewhere to grab a quick bite together and talk. There is a McDonalds and a Friendly's very near the studio for example. But let's see how much interest there is in that after the class and then plan accordingly.

Let's set an example for the next generation by letting them see us have the time of our lives dancing (as we always do!) and continue learning cool moves--all at the Avalon Studio (15 Mellor Ave; Catonsville, MD) on July 13!

See ya soon!

Barb Bernstein
DanceInTime.com