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AIBU?

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Original poster

Ballet or keyboard?

57 replies

earpods · 18/06/2024 13:29

Hi All,

I have a dilemma for my 4 year old.

She starts reception in September and she currently goes swimming and drama.

Do you think she should start ballet or keyboard classes from September?

She hasn't tried any of them and I just have one evening free in the week to take her to an activity.

I know I can ask her what she prefers but how much value would that have? I mean she changes her mind every day about everything! Today she may X tomorrow she will say Y. And just one week's free trial may not be enough for her to choose.

I just don't know if ballet is somehow already covered in her drama class as they do singing/dancing/acting?

On the other hand although keyboard classes start at 4 years old where we live, will she be too young for it?

Any advice/experience is welcome.

AIBU - Ballet
AINBU - Keyboard

OP posts:
PuttingDownRoots · 18/06/2024 14:41

If anything I would only add Rainbows or Squirrels to Drama and Swimming unless she has specifically asked for something

Jk987 · 18/06/2024 14:39

I think ballet. It's so good for posture and strength as well as being fun for the little ones.

JurassicClark · 18/06/2024 13:57

Reception can be very tiring for children - 5 days full. It might be worth giving her a term or two before giving her evening activities.

In terms of suitability, ballet might be better as her hands will be so small for a keyboard

longdistanceclaraclara · 18/06/2024 13:57

My kids loved dance but hated ballet. Lasted two terms. Their teacher was very old school RADA and it didn't suit them at all. Did much better in street dance.

Then moved into gymnastics but they really missed the boat with that one, loved it but were in a class with younger kids as their cohort had all started younger.

Depends on the child I think, I can't imagine listening to a 4yo packing keyboard to be much fun though!

Comefromaway · 18/06/2024 13:52

I voted ballet because age 4 is a bit too young for keyboard/piano lessons.

I have one child who trained as a professional dancerr and one child who is currently studying keyboard at conservatoire! Both were given the opportunity to do both activities and chose their own path.

ILoveDaysOff · 18/06/2024 13:50

I would be tempted to use the free evening just to spend some time together with her. She will be exhausted after school when she first starts.

If you absolutely need to do an activity, ballet is always a good one to start early. Both my kids love dance and started age 2. I think keyboard/piano is best when they're a bit older and have longer fingers!

Redlettuce · 18/06/2024 13:33

I think 4 is a bit young for music lessons. Mine started at 7. They need to practice between lessons which often means you nagging them. Ballet sounds fun but 3 activities a week is a lot for that age.