Dance Abilities is Ballet Lubbock’s adaptive dance program created specifically for individuals with Down syndrome, autism, and other specialized needs. This program blends classical ballet technique with creative movement and music activities in a fun, positive, and empowering environment where every dancer is seen, supported, and celebrated.

Our curriculum is modeled after Boston Ballet’s Adaptive Dance Program and Brain Compatible Dance Education, and all instructors receive specialized training led by a board-certified Behavior Analyst to ensure every class is engaging, safe, and developmentally appropriate.

Dance Abilities classes are currently offered at Ballet Lubbock, local elementary and middle schools, High Point Village, and the Burkhart Center for Autism Education and Research.

This program serves dancers ages 5 through adult, providing joyful, adaptive movement experiences in a supportive and inclusive environment.

Read more about our instructor training process.

If you would like to have Dance Abilities at your schools please contact our Adaptive Dance and Arts in Medicine Manager, Misty Seay: Misty@Balletlubbock.org.

All curriculum is approved and all instructors are trained by a board-certified Behavior Analyst.

Dance Abilities Programs

Sponsored By:

Benefits of Dance:

Sensory Benefits: Touch and body contact enhances social and emotional development. For example, body contact with the floor stimulates skin nerve receptors, which enhances body-in-space awareness.

Motor Benefits: Improves balance and synchronization of movements. Movement coordination between people has been shown via fNIRS (functional near-infrared spectroscopy) to improve behavior and boost mood, memory performance, and cooperation.

Cognitive Benefits: Enhances learning, attention, memory and problem solving skills.

Social and Emotional Benefits: Promotes teamwork, encourages empathy, provides an emotional outlet, and strengthens sensory awareness. Improves independence, coping skills, and teamwork.

Rhythmic Benefits: Dance enhances visual, sensory, and auditory rhythm in the brain. Rhythmic activity causes the entire brain to function in synchrony.

Creative Benefits: Self expression causes the brain to form new connections, which increases problem solving abilities and the ability to think “out of the box”, helping to develop imagination and self confidence.

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Dance Abilities Programs

Dance Abilities Kids!

Dance Abilities Kids!

Designed especially for children ages 5–12, Dance Abilities Kids! offers a joyful introduction to dance in a fun, structured, and supportive setting.

  • Explore movement and dance concepts in a safe, engaging way
  • Build confidence and creativity through themed activities
  • Encourage self-expression and imagination through music and movement
  • Foster social skills and friendships through shared experiences
  • Nurture a lifelong love of dance in an uplifting environment

All classes are led by highly trained faculty who are deeply committed to helping every dancer grow—physically, emotionally, and socially—while celebrating each child’s unique strengths and abilities.

Questions? Contact Misty Seay, Adaptive Dance and Arts in Medicine Manager
Misty@balletlubbock.org |  (806) 785-3090

Pricing

  • School Year Monthly Installment: $62.50 / month
  • Total Annual Tuition for School Year: $500.00 ($250 for Spring semester only)

When you register your dancer for the school year, you are automatically enrolled in an 8-month payment plan. Payments are drafted on the 15th of each month (or the following business day) from September – April. Alternate payment schedules are available. Please contact Business Manager Meg Slater for further details.

Schedule

2025 – 2026 School Year:

  • Ages 5 – 12: SATURDAYS | 11:45 a.m. – 12:45 p.m. | Geneva Griffin Studio

Dress Code + Protocols

Comfortable clothes to move in. Leggings, workout attire, sweat pants, t-shirts. Ballet attire is also welcome.

Dance Abilities Teens

Designed for ages 13–18, Dance Abilities Teens offers an uplifting and structured environment where teens can explore movement, build skills, and express themselves with confidence.

  • Learn foundational dance techniques through both classical and contemporary music
  • Explore new movement styles in a fun and supportive atmosphere
  • Develop creativity, coordination, and confidence through guided improvisation
  • Encourage personal expression while strengthening social-emotional skills
  • Foster a lifelong appreciation for dance and the joy of movement

All classes are led by highly trained instructors who are passionate about helping every teen grow through dance, movement, and meaningful connection.

Questions? Contact Misty Seay, Adaptive Dance and Arts in Medicine Manager
Misty@balletlubbock.org |  (806) 785-3090

Pricing

  • School Year Monthly Installment: $62.50 / month
  • Total Annual Tuition for School Year: $500.00 ($250 for Spring semester only)

When you register your dancer for the school year, you are automatically enrolled in an 8-month payment plan. Payments are drafted on the 15th of each month (or the following business day) from September – April. Alternate payment schedules are available. Please contact Business Manager Meg Slater for further details.

Schedule

2025-2026 School Year:

Ages 13-18: SATURDAYS | 1-2 p.m.

Dress Code + Protocols

Comfortable clothes to move in. Leggings, workout attire, sweat pants, t-shirts. Ballet attire is also welcome.

Dance Abilities

Dance Abilities is Ballet Lubbock’s adaptive dance class for adults 18+!

Dance Abilities is Ballet Lubbock’s adaptive dance program designed specifically for adults with special needs, ages 18 and up!

Classes are offered at Ballet Lubbock or can be brought to your organization. Whether in our studio or your space, each class is tailored to meet the needs of your group in a joyful, supportive, and inclusive environment.

  • Explore dance and movement in a safe and engaging way
  • Build confidence, coordination, and social connections
  • Enjoy uplifting music and creative expression
  • Participate in activities that encourage physical, emotional, and social growth

All instructors are highly trained and committed to supporting each dancer with compassion, creativity, and respect.

Location and scheduling are flexible—let’s bring Dance Abilities to you!

Interested in starting a class?
Contact Misty Seay, Adaptive Dance and Arts in Medicine Manager
Misty@balletlubbock.org |  (806) 785-3090

Schedule

Locations and dates vary. Please contact Ballet Lubbock if you are interested in providing a class for your group of adults!

Dress Code + Protocols

Comfortable clothes to move in. Leggings, workout attire, sweat pants, t-shirts. Ballet attire is also welcome.