Sophia Bell is the director of My Tiny Dancer.
Tell us about My Tiny Dancer.
My Tiny Dancer is a unique dance studio in the way we emphasise our-focus on finding the joy, excitement and magic of dance without the pressure of exams or concerts. I look to provide a stress-free environment for our dance families, allowing them to be immersed in the pure joy and imagination of each class, whilst learning key age-appropriate skills, coordination, rhythm and embracing the freedom that dance can provide. I strongly encourage our students and families to be present and celebrate every dance class to help develop their own artistic expression.
What ages range do you offer classes to?
We offer classes starting from as young as one-year-olds to six years for our Corrimal and Stanwell Park locations, which is the largest proportion of studio for My Tiny Dancer. This year we launched some classes for 6- to 8-year-olds at our Stanwell Park location which is proving to be popular, these classes focus a little more on ballet terminology, form, choreography and some barre work, while still keeping it fun.
Tell me about your background and experience in teaching?
I have always found great joy in dance and creative movement. I trained professionally in classical and contemporary dance here in Australia and overseas. Including three years in Switzerland and a further year in England honing my craft in a full-time, professional dance setting. Going on to perform throughout Germany, Switzerland, England and The Czech Republic, both in classical ballet and later focusing on contemporary and modern dance.
Fast forward a few years and I am now a mum, who is lucky enough to have her daughter come along to our dance classes and makes me want to offer my absolute best for all my students at this important stage of our children’s development with an emphasis on being creative and stress-free.
As a qualified dance and pilates instructor, who has mentored dancers from their very first dance class, through to professional dance events, auditions and performances, I feel very fortunate I can share my extensive knowledge with the next generation of tiny dancers.
I absolutely love living on the South Coast and I spend a lot of time in nature, when I’m not in the dance studio.
What are the benefits for children from dancing?
Dance improves memory, coordination and enhances fine and gross motor skills. It betters children’s balance and spatial awareness, all in a social setting that builds confidence. Feeling the music and timing is something children love, and developing an appreciation for music and rhythm is great for everyone not just children's well-being.
At such a young age, these tiny dancers are so full of energy and imagination and are naturally rhythmic, and this is most apparent when they feel safe and comfortable. They are still “learning to learn” and do this most effectively through observation, imitation and play. Building confidence, connections and friendship with other tiny dancers is a big part of what we are about.
What are the benefits for parents?
Meeting lots of other like-minded and local parents, allowing this time to connect with their child and share in the love and excitement of dance class with their little ones.
We absolutely love having the whole family come and watch, we not only allow but encourage you to come along and enjoy our family-friendly classes. We believe the magic of our dance classes is to be shared with our most special people.
Can you use Creative or Active vouchers?
Yes, you can use both Creative and Active Kids vouchers with us!
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