Children from less privileged backgrounds do not always get the opportunity to attend activities such ballet due to the cost of classes, costumes, uniforms and shoes. However the benefits of attending ballet classes are substantial both physically and mentally.
Sinead Vidler, Studio Director of Academy Ballet, has spent years developing a program that nurtures the physical training of dancers as well as their mental development. “Keeping teenagers busy and giving them a passion through ‘those’ years keeps them out of trouble.”
Lisa Howell, Director of Perfect Form Physiotherapy, stresses the physical benefits of good ballet training that gives “individuals a great focus on looking after their bodies, improved coordination and musicality and of learning how to train safely”.
Often ballet is criticised for being too tough on young girls, however, Andrea Gatt, a former ballet student of Academy Ballet, says: “The best advice I was ever given as a ballet student was that if someone has taken the time to give you a criticism, it is because they believe you have the ability to correct the flaw. This is advice that I use every day in my professional life [as a lawyer].”
Ballet Wings Founder, Dee Smart, relishes the opportunity to get children from some of the toughest backgrounds enrolled in some of the most elite ballet schools. Smart relies on the generosity of the highest quality schools “to bring ballet to underprivileged kids and hope they learn the rewards to be gained through life from hard work and consistency”.
Young children benefit from ballet training, they:
- Learn to follow instructions and self-discipline;
- Learn co-ordination and balance;
- Are confident and comfortable performing before groups;
- Develop flexibility, physical strength and agility;
- Develop an understanding of music and rhythm.
Adolescents continue benefitting from ballet training, because they:
- Develop long, lean and strong muscles;
- Develop a sense of pride in their own work and gain self confidence;
- Learn about proper nutrition and health;
- Are culturally enriched;
- Have an unwavering passion that keeps them busy.
The right training undoubtedly brings out the best in young children and adolescents.
