What Is AcroDance—and Why Is It Great for Kids (Especially Dancers)?

ACRODANCE or ACRO

cartwheel

If you’ve ever seen a dancer flow effortlessly from a cartwheel into a leap—or hold a slow, controlled balance on one leg after a handstand—you’ve likely seen AcroDance in action.

AcroDance combines classical dance technique with precision acrobatic elements. It’s not quite gymnastics, and not just dance—it’s a powerful hybrid that builds strength, flexibility, coordination, and confidence in kids of all ages.

At La Petite School of Dance, our instructors are trained and certified through professional programs like Acrobatic Arts and Acrobatique, ensuring that your child learns correct progressions safely and with strong technique from the ground up.

🌟 AcroDance vs. Gymnastics: What’s the Difference?

While AcroDance and gymnastics may look similar on the surface—both include tumbling, strength, and flexibility—their goals, training methods, and movement quality are quite different.

AcroDance	Gymnastics
Integrated into dance routines	Focused on apparatus and routines like beam, bars, floor
Emphasizes fluid transitions, musicality, and lines	Emphasizes power, precision, and timed execution
Taught on mats with an emphasis on technique in dance context	Trained with spotting and progression on apparatus
Movements flow in and out of choreography	Movements are often isolated and judged on form/points
Builds artistry + acrobatic strength together	Builds competitive skills and athletic strength

The result? AcroDance gives dancers that “wow” factor while still emphasizing alignment, control, and performance quality.

💪 Why AcroDance Is So Beneficial—for Dancers and Beyond

Whether your child is already dancing or just interested in movement, AcroDance builds a strong foundation of physical and mental skills that support success both in and out of the studio.

For Dancers:

• Improved Flexibility: Increases range of motion for higher kicks, deeper pliés, and smoother lines

• Core Strength: Supports balance, turns, and alignment in ballet, jazz, and contemporary

• Spatial Awareness: Teaches how to safely control movement in all directions

• Confidence on Stage: Acro tricks can elevate choreography and stage presence

• Injury Prevention: Emphasizes proper technique and muscle control for safe movement

Beyond Dance:

• Resilience: Kids learn to try, fall safely, and try again

• Focus & Discipline: Acro requires attention to detail and consistent practice

• Growth Mindset: Mastery comes in small steps—and that’s something kids carry into school and life

• Team Spirit: Even though many tricks are individual, Acro builds peer support and encouragement

👩‍🏫 Why Certified Acro Instruction Matters

At La Petite School of Dance, our instructors are certified through professional programs like Acrobatic Arts and Acrobatique, which means:

• We follow structured, age-appropriate progressions

• We prioritize safe technique over shortcuts

• We know when a dancer is ready to advance—and when they need more time to grow

• We nurture a love for movement that celebrates effort, not just ability

You won’t see us forcing tricks or rushing through skills. Instead, we’re laying the groundwork for confident, capable movers who thrive in whatever path they choose—on stage or off.

💫 Is Acro Right for My Child?

If your child:

• Loves dance and wants to add tricks or skills

• Has lots of energy and needs a healthy outlet

• Wants to improve strength, flexibility, or coordination

• Could benefit from a boost in confidence or body awareness

…then AcroDance is a fantastic choice.

Our school-age Acro programs are built with encouragement, creativity, and skill progression in mind. Whether your child dreams of doing a backbend kickover or just wants to get stronger and have fun, we’re here to support them.

Learn more about our AcroDance program and schedule a trial today:👉 www.lapetiteschoolofdance.com

Because here at La Petite, it’s not about being the best—it’s about becoming your best. One tumble, stretch, and smile at a time.