my kid (5) is starting to become quite serious about dance. i have no idea why, or if it will last, but one of the things that i love about her studio is that the older girls have a variety of body types and there are numerous streams of interest, from recreational, to company, to competitive.
cross-stream friendships are very common, and best of all, aside from pointe, it is strictly ability-grouped so the classes can include a range of ages. it is the one and only place DD can hang out with her true peers and not give it a second thought. nobody looks at her like she doesn't belong - because she just does. her dance teachers have helped her come to terms with her difference in the most matter-of-fact, lovely way: she is simply placed in the class she's ready for.
clearly, dance provides an amazing physical outlet for her, but really it's the sense of belonging that it's given her for which i'm most grateful. these incredible environments do exist - take a good look around - but you'll know it when you see it!
