Why Learning Ballet Is One of the Best Ways to Balance Screen Time for Kids
In today’s digital world, it can be hard to peel kids away from screens. And in addition to limiting screen time, parents need to find healthy activities for kids to maximize the benefits of achieving that balance. When it comes to helping children grow stronger, more confident, and well-rounded, few activities match the all-around real-world benefits of ballet. Ballet classes offer a structured, screen-free space where children can develop essential life skills — physically, mentally, and emotionally.
Physical Strength and Coordination
Sitting for long hours with a tablet or game controller doesn’t do much for a child’s growing body. But ballet for kids supports total body development. From the first plié to more advanced movements, kids build flexibility, posture, core strength, balance, and muscle tone.
The precise, intentional nature of ballet movements also helps children improve their motor coordination and body awareness in space. That kind of control carries over into better performance in sports, better physical balance in everyday movement, and a more active lifestyle overall.
Confidence, Focus, and Emotional Well-Being
Learning ballet teaches kids far more than technique. It instills discipline, patience, and focus — qualities that are hard to develop while switching rapidly between apps and games. The repetition and structure of ballet classes encourage perseverance and goal-setting, which can boost self-confidence over time.
Ballet also promotes emotional regulation and mental wellness. Young dancers often experience improved mood and decreased stress levels, especially when ballet becomes a consistent part of their routine. It’s a healthy outlet for expression — something many children desperately need in a world dominated by fast-paced, often overwhelming media.
Authentic Social Connection and Creative Growth
Unlike screen time, which can be isolating, ballet gives kids the chance to engage in meaningful, real-time social interactions. Classes encourage cooperation, listening, and respect for peers and teachers. Children who study ballet learn empathy, teamwork, and how to celebrate others' successes as well as their own.
Ballet also fuels the imagination. Through storytelling and music, children can explore creative expression in a way that fosters joy and curiosity. The artistry of ballet can ignite a lifelong love of the arts — and give kids a break from constant digital stimulation.
A Lifelong Gift
Whether through weekly lessons or a summer ballet camp, real-world movement activities such as ballet provide kids with something screens can’t: a foundation for strong, confident, and socially connected living. And for kids growing up in a high-tech world, it may just be one of the best gifts we can give.
Get 360 Degrees of Healthy Child Development With Southern California Ballet
Southern California Ballet (SCB) is a world-class dance facility in San Diego that trains dancers for a professional career, empowers people for a life of success, and welcomes the community to be part of an extraordinary experience. Our mission is to empower aspiring dancers to reach their full potential and elevate the community through inclusive, supportive educational programs and imaginative performances.
SCB offers enriching summer dance camps that combine technical training with creative activities. Students engage in ballet classes, craft sessions, and group dances, culminating in an in-studio presentation for parents. These camps provide a supportive environment where dancers of all levels can thrive. Enroll your child today!
SCB’s training philosophy has been carefully honed by its artistic directors with the goal of providing effective, healthy, and foundational ballet training. We offer classes for people of all ages (4 years old and up). Learn more about our classes and levels, and reach out to join our academy today!
