The Ailey School

Overview

Learn and grow! Create and play! Have fun and dance!

Our First Steps and Bounding Boys Programs are for children ages 3 to 6 years old. The programs are designed to give each child personalized instructional support and attention.  All First Steps and Bounding Boys classes have an instructional team comprised of a primary teacher, 1 to 3 Teaching Assistants who are either current students or alumni of The Ailey School, and a live accompanist. We strive to create a warm, supportive, and inviting atmosphere for your child. 

First Steps Curriculum

In this program, 3 to 6-year-old students 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 three age groups. 

• First Steps I: age 3 and 4 

• First Steps II: age 5 

• First Steps III: age 6 

Bounding Boys Curriculum

An extension of the First Steps program, Bounding Boys offers a creative, athletic experience for young dancers, ages 4-6, to develop dance skills and coordination through music, movement, and tumbling techniques. 

Classes are once per week on Saturday: 

• Bounding Boys I: age 4 

• Bounding Boys II: age 5 

• Bounding Boys III: age 6 

Dress Code

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.

Dress Code

Orientation

Thursday, September 7 at 6pm – First Steps and Bounding Boys Mandatory Safety Information Meeting (The Zoom link will be sent the morning of the meeting.)

Friday, September 8 at 12pm – Make-up First Steps and Bounding Boys Mandatory Safety Information Meeting (The Zoom link will be sent the morning of the meeting.)

Saturday, September 9 – First Day of First Steps and Bounding Boys classes.

Saturday, September 30 - Mandatory First Steps and Bounding Boys In-Person Program Orientation. (Parents only, scheduled during your regular class time.)

First Steps and Bounding Boys families currently enrolled for the 2023-2024 school year, please visit the Junior Division Resources page for more information.

Fall Enrollment closes Friday, October 13!

Auditions are not required for the First Steps and Bounding Boys Program. Enrollment happens twice a year; in the fall and spring, on a first-come, first-served basis. Parent Observation Days offer families the opportunity to watch classes and meet the faculty. Fun studio presentations are scheduled at the end of the year.

Enroll Now

Class Offerings

Classes for our 2023-2024 First Steps Program will be held once a week on Saturdays. The school year commences in September and ends in May.
To view the tentative class schedule, click below.

Class Offerings

For information on training for ages 7-17, please visit the Pre-Professional Program page.

Tuition & Fees

Annual tuition for First Steps & Bounding Boys is $1370. For more detailed information on payment plans, deadlines, and discounts, please see the Tuition and Fees Price Chart.

*Tuition and fees are subject to change.