Creative Dance for Children

Creative Dance for Children offers creative dance classes that include exploration and improvisation, a developmentally appropriate warm-up called the BrainDance, traveling across the floor, moving through an obstacle course, learning a folk dance, learning dances, creating their own dances, and a cool down with reflection on learning and creative movement. Classes are closed to caregivers except on “Informance” days and utilize a 5-part lesson plan using Anne Green Gilbert’s Brain Compatible Dance Education as a model and inspiration.

• Ages: 4–10 years old
• Schedule: Saturday morning classes in a session running February 7 – April 11, 2026, with no class on March 14 and March 21

Creative Dance for Children is an innovative community program provided by the University of Illinois Department of Dance under the direction of Betty Allen. Instructors Betty Allen and Ty Lewis collaborate to design and deliver the creative dance classes for children aged 4–10. The program has been a treasured offering to the community for over 50 years. The program uses a child-centered approach with a focus on nurturing creativity and imagination, and students are encouraged to unleash their inner artist and discover the joy of dance making. Children are asked to wear loose-fitting, comfortable clothes that are easy to move in and bare feet.

Last updated January 11, 2026.