Twinkle Toes Dance Company, Los Angeles

At Twinkle Toes, ballet classes are about more than just learning how to dance. As the school's director, Karen Gladis believes, being a parent herself has given her a different, broader perspective on teaching—she strives to make the dance classes a respectful and non-competitive environment for both kids and parents. In each session, the experienced instructors work to inspire creativity and happiness in the children, as well as to build their confidence, self-expression, and social skills. In the classes ranging from Parent and Me and Toddler Ballet to Jazz and Contemporary sessions, they use creative imaginary, play, and a variety of props to encourage the practice.