Amelia's Ballerinas
About me...
About Us
I am very passionate and committed to our group and I take such joy in seeing our children grow in confidence and ability. I strive to connect with each and every child and give them the best experience as they learn ballet. Being a naturally patient, gentle and nurturing person, I am particularly good with 'shy' children. I understand how important it is to take it at their pace without making them feel pressured, and that building trust is the first step to a positive relationship.
I also have a natural affinity with children who are more spirited and energetic. I accept them as they are and we work together to help them participate in class, without squashing their natural enthusiasm.
I'm always happy to have a chat with you about any questions, concerns, or comments you have have, and how I can help your child have a magical time with Amelia's Ballerinas!
Hi, I'm Amelia and I have the awesome job of teaching our budding ballerinas each week!
For as long as I can remember, I have loved to dance. I was lucky enough to receive 11 years of dance lessons (Ballet and Jazz) as a child and these are my favourite childhood memories!
When my eldest daughter showed an interest in dance, I was over the moon to share my love of dance with her! However we were quickly disappointed with the classes that were available at the time. They were so expensive, incredibly strict, and lacked a sense of fun. I watched a class and was left wondering "Where is the JOY?"
A little idea formed in my head...I could pass on something to my daughter that was very special to me- my love of dance!
With my background in dance as well as my training in Early Childhood Teaching, I began teaching my own dance lessons where I could pass on my passion for dance in a fun, supportive, nurturing environment. Turns out, many other families were also looking for a gentle, positive introduction to dance for their children and as word went around, our Amelia's Ballerinas has grown and grown. We now have over 180 amazing children starting their dancing jounrey with us, in 3 different locations around Christchurch.
Why Choose Us?
Gentle teaching philosophy, taught by a patient, caring, nurturing teacher who has years of experience working with children. Especially good with 'shy' or anxious children, taking the time to form a trusting relationship with them to help them feel safe and secure.
Magic, memorable weekly lessons from a unique curriculum full of fun props, cute costumes and beautiful music. Each class is well structured with balance of fun, repetition, and learning.
Affordable fees, making it accessible to every child who dreams of being a ballerina. No need for an expensive uniform or shoes.
Three convenient locations - Halswell, Hoon Hay, and Rolleston. We also have weekend classes- great for parents who work full time!
Safe, supportive, nurturing environment where everyone is welcome. Especially good for children who may not thrive in traditional classes, whether they are spirited, shy, or have special needs.
More relaxed approach than traditional ballet lessons that develops the whole child, focusing on confidence, creativity, and fun to foster a love of dance in our young children.
Parents are welcome to stay and watch. In our Baby Ballet class, parents are even able to join in with their little dancers if needed, making it a great bonding activity.
Classes specially tailored for each age group, with classes for children aged 2 yrs to 9 yrs. Developmentally appropriate to keep little bones and bodies safe from strains and injuries.
Twice yearly recitals to give back to the community and celebrate our children's achievements, while giving our dancers a boost of self-esteem, confidence and mastery. These are a highlight of the year.
Special themed weeks (Frozen Week, Princess Party, Teddy Bears Picnic) held each term. This fosters a sense of belonging and is also lots of fun!
Flexible class levels and age range, so we can work with what is best for your child's individual needs
You won't see children standing in perfect lines with serious expressions. What you will see is a room full of laughter, twirls, colour, joy, as our children glow with their love of dance.
Our gentle, nurturing approach to teaching gives flexibility for children who may not thrive in a traditional class.
Our classes are especially good for children who are anxious, 'shy', or slow-to-warm-up in new situations. We go at their pace and build positive, trusting relationships so they are able to come out of their shells and shine. It is also a place for more spirited children to express their creativity and be given the tools to be able to concentrate, without their natural enthusiasm being squashed. We have created a safe, supportive environment where children with special needs are not only welcomed, but are given an experience where they can thrive.
"Having fun in a relaxed environment"
Thank you for all your hard work. *Miss 6* loves to dance and I love the fact that she is learning and having fun in a really relaxed environment. - Catherine W.
"Dear Miss Amelia, Thank you for being a really wonderful teacher and teaching ballet to me. I love your happy face." - *Miss 6*
Our Philosophy
Amelia's Ballerinas offers a gentle, positive, magical introduction to ballet. Our goal is that every child who comes to us develops a love of dance in a safe, supportive environment where everyone feels welcome.
We teach developmentally appropriate ballet and dance skills that are safe for growing bodies. But it's so much more than Plie's and Jetes! Your child is also learning important skills like building confidence, expressing creativity, being able to concentrate and follow instructions, social skills, self-control, self-esteem, teamwork, all while getting some great exercise. Our classes start at age 2 right up to age 9 and guide each child at an age appropriate level to become a positive, confident, graceful dancer. With a unique curriculum, we focus on developing the whole child, rather than the strict discipline and technical focus of traditional ballet training.
Why choose Ballet?
Ballet is a beautiful introduction to the world of dance.
Children are naturally drawn to the graceful, elegant moves and, of course, the beautiful costumes! There is something wholesome and timeless about ballet. Children and their parents have dreams of fluffy pink tutus, satin slipper, and twinkle toes in a ballet class.
But did you also know that ballet forms the building blocks of other types of dance as well?
Ballet training creates a strong foundation for any dance technique. And it's not just dancers! Gymnasts, athletes, even rugby players take ballet lessons to help get to the top of their games.
There are many benefits to learning ballet, including:
Physical
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Balance
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Flexibility
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Co-ordination
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Fine and Gross Motor Skills
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Spacial Awareness
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Poise and Posture
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Strength
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Confidence
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Self-Esteem
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Creative Expression
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Self-Control
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Sense of Pride and Accomplishment
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Sense of Belonging
Emotional
Mental
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Concentration
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Listening and Following Instructions
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Discipline and Focus
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Creativity
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Music and Rhythm Appreciation
Social
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Teamwork
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Communitcaion
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Building Relationships
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Confidence in a group setting
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Overcoming social anxiety
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Making New Friends
Ready to try it out for yourself?
Come and experience the benefits of Ballet with Amelia's Ballerinas!
