Why Ballet Means More Than Just Dance for My Daughter

Trying to find ways for a child with disabilities to feel included with their peers isn’t always easy. As a parent, you’re constantly looking for opportunities where they can belong, have fun, and just be a kid.

One thing we decided to try was putting my daughter in a ballet class. And it has been such a gift.

She looks forward to going every single week. The class is small, the environment is welcoming, and the teachers are kind and willing to work with her where she is. Watching her dance, smile, and feel like part of the group makes my heart so incredibly happy.

Of course, there are still challenges. There are certain movements she isn’t able to do yet, and that can be frustrating for her sometimes. But she keeps trying and does her very best, and I'm just so incredibly proud of her. 

The other day she told me, “I told the teacher I couldn’t do the bunny hop, and she said that’s okay. And I said thank you.”

Dear God… my heart. 🥹

Moments like that remind me why opportunities like this matter so much. Every therapy session and treatment she receives helps build a little more strength, endurance, and skill. I truly believe she wouldn’t even be in a place to try something like ballet without everything that has been invested in her along the way.

Your support helps continue making those therapies possible so she can keep building her physical abilities, growing stronger, and gaining the confidence to keep trying new things.