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Dance

HIT THE DANCE FLOOR

DANCE CLASSES AT THE Y

Dancing is a fun, expressive and energizing way to stay active — perfect for all ages and skill levels. As both an art and a workout, dance builds strength, balance and agility, while also improving coordination and heart health. 

We offer a variety of dance programs tailored to different ages and experience levels, including private, semi-private and group classes. Whether you’re an adult, a parent dancing with your child or looking for preschool or youth options, there’s a class for everyone. 

View all dance programs offered, register by age group or select a branch below to browse specific programming:

Dance Programs By Age group

Dance Programs By Branch

Magdalena Ecke Family YMCA

Location and Contacts

200 Saxony Road
Encitias, CA 920243 — See directions
(760) 942-9622 

Donna Link | Director
Email: dlink@ymcasd.org

Our Programs

Ballet is the foundation for dance. We focus on developing a solid ballet technique with emphasis on understanding correct body placement, proper use of turn out, coordination of the upper body and use of arms.

High-energy hip-hop classes use the latest music and dance moves from music videos and dances.

This class offers a blend of both jazz and hip-hop, often referred to a “smooth” hip-hop.

Tap classes emphasizes clarity of sound, rhythm, coordination and speed with special shoes that have metal plates on the toes and heels.

Dancers may choose to be a part of our non-competitive dance team! Dancers must be enrolled in one technique class as well as team rehearsal class. Dancers will perform at community centered events. 

Toby Wells Family YMCA

Location and Contacts

5105 Overland Avenue
San Diego, CA 92123 — See directions
(858) 496-9622 

Mary Pino | Director
Email: mpino@ymcasd.org

Our Programs

Our beginner Cheer classes combine the fun of dance and the fundamentals of cheerleading! Each 60-minute session includes 30 minutes in the dance studio focusing on cheer motions, rhythm and choreography, followed by 30 minutes in the gymnastics center working on tumbling skills. This hybrid format helps participants build strength, coordination and confidence while learning teamwork and performance skills in a positive, high-energy environment.

Our Tiny Dancers class is a lively 45-minute journey into the world of dance tailored for energetic kids ages 3-4. Through imaginative play and structured activities, children will discover the joy of movement while learning basic ballet and tap techniques. This class promotes physical coordination, balance and motor skills development, all while fostering creativity and building confidence in our youngest dancers.

Youth Ballet/Tap invites kids ages 5-7 to explore the grace and rhythm of dance in an engaging 55-minute session. Focusing on foundational ballet and tap techniques, this class encourages students to express themselves through movement while enhancing their posture, flexibility and muscle strength. Beyond physical benefits, children develop discipline, perseverance and teamwork skills as they collaborate with peers in a supportive and nurturing environment.

Youth Hip-Hop is a dynamic 55-minute class designed for ages 6-12 to groove and express themselves through urban dance styles. With upbeat music and age-appropriate choreography, students not only improve their coordination, agility and cardiovascular health but also gain confidence in their own unique style of movement. This class encourages self-expression and creativity while promoting a positive outlet for energy and emotions.

Cameron Family YMCA

Location and Contacts

10123 Riverwalk Drive
Santee, CA 92071 — See directions
619-449-9622 

Linnea Campbell | Department Head
Email: lrcampbell@ymcasd.org

Katlyn Ravalli | Program Coordinator 
Email: kravalli@ymcasd.org

Madi Ridens | Program Coordinator II
Email: mridens@ymcasd.org

Our Programs

With the guidance of a caregiver, children ages 18 months to 2.9 years will twist, twirl and wiggle their way into the joy of dance. This playful and supportive class helps little ones feel comfortable in a studio setting while exploring rhythm, movement and imagination. Through simple steps, creative movement and free-dance time, children build coordination, balance and confidence — all while laying the foundation for a lifelong love of dance.

Preschoolers are ready to leap, spin and shine as they explore the world of dance! In this fun and engaging class, dancers build confidence while learning the basics of rhythm, balance and coordination. With a mix of structured instruction and free dance, preschoolers develop foundational skills that prepare them for future dance classes — all in a joyful, supportive environment.

Dancers are introduced to a variety of fun movements and simple choreography while encouraging creativity and confidence. Through guided instruction, students explore rhythm, balance and coordination in a positive and supportive environment. With a mix of skill-building and playful expression, dancers develop a strong foundation while discovering the joy of dance.