Best Dance Studios for Kids in Montreal: A Parent's Guide

Finding Your Child's Rhythm

Dance is one of the best activities for kids — it builds coordination, confidence, discipline, and creativity all at once. Montreal has a thriving dance scene with studios offering everything from classical ballet to hip hop to Bollywood. Here's our guide to the best studios by neighbourhood.

The Plateau & Mile End

Dans'Atout on Rue Saint-Denis has been a Plateau institution for over 20 years. They offer ballet, jazz, contemporary, and hip hop for ages 3 and up. What sets them apart is their non-competitive philosophy — the focus is on joy and expression rather than perfection. Recitals happen twice a year at a real theatre venue. Classes start at $180/session (15 weeks), which is very reasonable for the quality.

Bam Studio on Boulevard Saint-Laurent specializes in urban dance styles — hip hop, breaking, locking, and popping. Their youth program (ages 6-16) is taught by working dancers who bring real street dance culture into the studio. It's the cool factor your tween is looking for. Around $200/session.

NDG & Côte-des-Neiges

L'Académie de Danse in NDG offers a rigorous but nurturing ballet program following the RAD (Royal Academy of Dance) syllabus. Students can pursue formal exams or simply enjoy the training. They also offer jazz and contemporary. Known for their exceptional teachers and strong technique. Sessions run $200-250 for 15 weeks.

Laval & North Shore

Danse 1..2..3 in Laval is one of the largest dance schools on the North Shore. They offer an impressive range of styles including ballet, jazz, tap, hip hop, acrobatic dance, and musical theatre. Their recreational program is welcoming and fun, while their competitive team consistently places at provincial competitions. About $190-240/session depending on the style.

West Island

Studio Imperium in Pierrefonds offers dance, cheerleading, and acrobatics. Their hip hop and jazz programs are particularly popular with the 8-14 age group. The studio has a modern facility with sprung floors and excellent sound systems. Around $200-260/session.

What Style Is Right for Your Child?

• Ballet (ages 3+) — Builds posture, discipline, and grace. The foundation for all dance forms.
• Jazz (ages 5+) — Energetic and fun. Great for kids who love pop music.
• Hip Hop (ages 6+) — High energy, creative, and cool. Huge appeal for tweens.
• Contemporary (ages 8+) — Expressive and artistic. Good for emotionally aware kids.
• Acrobatic Dance (ages 5+) — Combines dance with gymnastics elements. Perfect for the physically adventurous.

What to Look For

1. Sprung or floating floors — Essential for protecting growing joints
2. Qualified instructors — Look for formal dance education and teaching certification
3. Class size — 12-15 students maximum for quality instruction
4. Performance opportunities — Recitals build confidence and give kids goals to work toward
5. Trial classes — Always try before committing to a full session

Find more arts programs in Montreal on FamiliQC.