One of the reasons parents love dance lessons is because they help teach children so many valuable life skills!
Along with self-expression, ballet teaches discipline, perseverance, and grace. Kids often look forward to ballet class because it's a fun way to get their energy out with new friends.
Bringing the fun of ballet class home is as easy as reading together! If your child can't get enough of dance class, these ballet books are a great way to tap into the fun of dance from home. Plus, these fun books about dancing can reinforce the important lessons they learn each week in class.
Here are the 9 best ballet books for kids. Let's get moving!
1. The Silver Slippers by Elizabeth Koda-Callan
This ballerina book makes the perfect gift for any young dancer. Elizabeth Koda-Callan's iconic ballet children's book is the perfect encouragement to prepare for your child's dance recital. This book covers topics all young dancers face, like stage fright and fear of not being good enough.
We love this book because it teaches perseverance. The practice makes perfect concept takes center stage in this story, leading the little girl to offer an incredible performance. Plus, this beautiful book comes with a silver slippers charm necklace, which reminds your little ballerina that she's good enough every time she wears it.
2. My First Dance - Ballet Board Book
If you've got a little wiggler who is just starting classes, this handy board book is a great way to start teaching your child ballet terminology. Toddlers love this book because each page features pictures of young diverse dancers who look just like them!
Consider this book your baby's first introduction to ballet. This board book is a great way to review steps taught in beginning classes or prep your little one for their first class. If your baby seems eager to practice her moves at home, reading this book can encourage her to recall each step and show off what she learned for you.
3. I’m A Ballerina By Sue Fliess
If dance class feels scary for your little dancer, this is the book for her. I'm a Ballerina is the perfect book to help your ballerina prepare for class each week. The main character bravely leads your little dancer through her class and recital, so your dancer feels ready to move.
Young, shy dancers will easily see themselves in this book and learn that ballet can be fun! This Little Golden Book is a must-have on any baby ballerina's bookshelf.
4. Boys Dance! by John Robert Allman
Being the only boy in class can be nerve-wracking for your little man. If you've got a boy who loves dance more than his sisters, this book is a must. Representation is important in the dance community, and this lovely book was created in partnership with the men from American Ballet Theater to showcase that boys can dance, too!
The back of this book contains real pictures and interviews from the ABT ballerinos, which can be particularly inspiring for your little boy. This book is essential to share the love of dance with your son.
5. Bunheads by Misty Copeland
Fictional stories are fun, but inspiring stories from famous dancers might be just the thing to touch your young dancer's heart. Misty Copeland is one of the most popular ballerinas of all time, and her beautiful autobiographical children's book is a heartfelt example for any little ballerina.
For ballerinas who are starting to discover their own love of dance, this touching story shows how ballet is about teamwork, courage, and dedication. If your little dancer eats, sleeps, and breaths ballet, this book will make the perfect gift to foster her passion.
6. Waltz of the Snowflakes by Elly MacKay
Many ballet books take place in class, so sometimes it can be tough for children to imagine what an actual ballet looks like. This charming story of a girl attending the ballet with her grandmother brings the beauty of professional ballet alive. It's the perfect bedtime book for the aspirational dancer that dreams of the big stage and bright lights.
This book focuses on a rendition of The Nutcracker, bringing new life to a timeless favorite. Just make sure you're prepared to buy tickets to see The Nutcracker live! After a few reads of this story, your little one will be begging for a field trip to the ballet.
7. I Want to Be a Ballerina by Anna Membrino
When you have one daughter that's born to dance and another that wants to follow in her sister's footsteps, you may encounter some unexpected disappointment. Struggling in dance class is something many young ballerinas can relate to, but especially if they have an older sibling who takes to ballet so naturally.
This beautiful ballet book tells the story of a little sister who may not be the best dancer, but she loves spending time with her sister in class. If you have siblings who dance together, this story can help foster a bond that will amaze you.
8. This Is It by Daria Peoples-Riley
As your young dancer grows up, auditions are a possibility in their future. However, auditioning for a part can be a terrifying concept for any young ballerina. This story is the perfect way to help your ballerina tap into his or her confidence, whether it's before a recital or preparing for an audition.
The beautiful poetry and gorgeous images on each page are enough to transfix your dancer over and over again. Even when your dancer is reading independently, this book makes the perfect gift to prepare for the next stage in her dance career.
9. The Only Boy in Ballet Class by Denise Gruska
As your little dancer gets older, he might realize that he's the only boy in his class. When dancing becomes a more serious hobby for him, he may experience some teasing. Little boys may need an extra push to keep pursuing their dance dreams, and this story is the perfect choice for your grade-school-aged son.
After being asked to join the football team, the main character uses his ballet skills to show his athleticism. Dancers are strong, and this story can help your young dancer feel confident no matter what.
Ballet Books Can Inspire Your Young Dancer
Many dancers fall in love with ballet from an early age. These ballet books can keep their passion alive both in and out of the studio.
If your ballerina is growing out of her leotards, we've got you covered! Shop now to find the best dancewear for your little one.
