First Steps and Bounding Boys
Program Details
First Steps
In this program, 3-year-old boys and girls, and 4- to 6-year-old girls develop their mind and muscle memory through a weekly series of fun exercises that lay the groundwork for proper dance technique. They develop body awareness and control while exploring their own creativity and develop an understanding of the connection between dance, rhythm and music. Children are encouraged to think creatively and listen attentively while they develop rhythmic awareness and learn the healthy habit of exercising at an early age.
Classes convene once per week (on either Saturday or Sunday) and are split into four age groups.
- First Steps I: age 3 (boys and girls)
- First Steps I: age 4 (girls only)
- First Steps II: age 5 (girls only)
- First Steps III: age 6 (girls only)













Bounding Boys
An extension of the First Steps program, Bounding Boys offers a creative, athletic experience for young boys, ages 4-6, to develop dance skills and coordination through music, movement and tumbling techniques.
Classes are once per week on Saturday and are separated into three age groups (boys only):
- Bounding Boys I: age 4
- Bounding Boys II: age 5
- Bounding Boys III: age 6
A dress code is strictly enforced for both programs. To purchase dress code items, please visit The Ailey Boutique located inside The Ailey School. For store hours, please call 212-405-9100.





Admissions
First Steps and Bounding Boys are introductory classes and do not require an audition. Classes are held on Saturdays or Sundays, September through May.
This program is on pause for the 2021-2022 school year. Please continue to check this page for announcements on upcoming enrollment options.
To be placed on a mailing list to receive information about when registration opens, please email juniordivision@alvinailey.org. Please include the following information when emailing:
- Student’s Name
- Student’s Date of Birth
- Parent Name
- Parent E-mail Address
Tuition & Fees
Annual tuition for First Steps & Bounding Boys is $1120. For more detailed information on payment plans, deadlines, and discounts, please see the Tuition and Fees Price Chart.
Frequently Asked Questions
NOTE: FAQ's listed below pertain to procedures at The Ailey School prior to the COVID-19 pandemic and may not be applicable during the current school year.
Please visit the COVID-19 Health and Safety FAQ page.
No, students under the age of 16 cannot participate in professional level classes, regardless of their years of training or proficiency.
Yes! Because the Junior Division Program is curriculum-based, students must participate in every class assigned to his or her level in order to meet the requirements to advance to the next level.
Yes. Junior Division Students must attend all of the classes scheduled for their level.
Tuition fees are based on the level and program in which the student is placed. Please visit Tuition and Fees for details.
Yes, intermediate and advanced students between the ages of 15-17 may audition for merit-based scholarships. Scholarship audition dates and times will be posted on the Pre-Professional Program page and on the Audition Calendar.
Class schedules are based on student placement and class levels.
No, students must participate in the full curriculum of classes assigned to their level. There are no open classes available in the Junior Division.
The placement of Junior Division students is determined by their proficiency in ballet.
Parents should contact the following assigned Parent Liaisons:
- First Step/Bounding Boys: Baredu Ahmed
- Level I-III; AABD: Baredu Ahmed
- Level IV: Dena Hardee
- Level V, VI/VII: Dena Hardee
Evaluations tend to differ from class to class due to the energy level or the focus of the class. For example, a student’s energy level from Ballet to West African is different. It also depends on the energy of the class.
If your child received a mark in that area the instructor most likely commented on how they could progress at the bottom of the evaluation. Encourage your child and let them know they can improve in those areas; encourage them to stretch at home. Many instructors provided students with exercises throughout the school year. Have them speak with the teacher to receive further explanation or exercises in which they can improve. If you still need further clarification, please contact your parent liaison.
Students are permitted 3 absences per term. If a student will be out, it is best that the parent notifies the Junior Division office at jdattendance@alvinailey.org. Students are permitted a 5 minute grace period for lateness. After that, students will be asked to observe.
In lieu of traditional academic Report Cards, The Ailey School issues written evaluations that are an overview of your child’s growth and development.