Jazz dance camps for 2026

What do children learn at jazz dance camp?

Jazz dance is a unique way to learn more about your body, how it moves and its range of motion. Fluidity and sharpness, though opposites, are assets developed in jazz dance. Common jazz moves learned during camp include the chassé, jazz square, jazz walk, ball change, and, most importantly, isolations. Isolations describe a jazz dancer’s ability to move a single part of their body at a time, the most important aspect of jazz dance, and often the first skill learned in camp.

Perfecting fundamental jazz steps and moves allows campers to move onto more elaborate steps. Jumps, turns, and kicks are part of intermediate choreography. Jazz camps that list with us can also mix in acro dance training, a style with origins in gymnastics, with jumps, turns, and kicks. Warm-ups, conditioning exercises, and rehearsals are conducted throughout camp to elevate children’s flexibility and self-control. 

More advanced jazz dance training teaches more sophisticated jazz moves, and dancers include expression and style into their dance routines. Incorporating emotion in dance adds theatricality, deeper meaning, and expression to routines. Kids and teens also learn how to dance in a variety of jazz styles, such as classical, modern, or lyrical jazz. 

Prices for jazz dance camps begin at $100 and are offered at both primary, junior, and teen levels.

Why go to jazz dance camp?

Through jazz dance, kids and teens train to become skillful dancers, but there are other benefits your child will gain:

• Stay energized and healthy. Dance is an energy-releasing activity, a form of cardio. It improves respiratory and cardiovascular health. It’s also a very healthy stress reliever. 
• Solo, paired, and group dances allow kids and teens to balance independence with collaborative work. In solo dances, an individual dancer showcases their talents on stage. Personalized feedback is provided by teachers. Paired and group dances encourage campers to synchronize with their fellow dancers on stage and communicate off stage.
• Increased coordination and balance. The jumps, kicks, turns, and isolations that are common dance moves in camps, help kids and teens improve balance and coordination. These skills are great for children wishing to pursue other forms of dance like ballet and acro, for example.
• Train for a future in dance. Jazz dance is a universal dance style seen in Broadway musicals, professional dance troupes, and more. With the skills learned in camp, your child may feel inspired to pursue a career in dance.

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