South Coast Conservatory
Dance Training

How SCC is Developing Orange County Youth with Acro

Building strength, confidence, and technique through acrobatics

Jena Minnick-Bull

Jena Minnick-Bull

Dance Director

March 6, 2025
5 min read

If your child loves to move, tumble, and express themselves through dance, you've probably heard the buzz about acro. But what exactly is acro, and why is everyone talking about it? At South Coast Conservatory (SCC), acro has been an essential part of our dance training programs for over 20 years”and we're proud to say it's been a game-changer for Orange County's youth.

What is Acro?

"Acro" is short for acrobatics, but in the dance world, it goes a step further to blend classical dance techniques (like ballet and jazz) with jaw-dropping acrobatic moves like tumbling, balancing, and contortion. Imagine combining beautiful, flowing dance movements with flips, handsprings, and aerials”it's visually stunning and a joy to watch and perform.

Acro isn't just about tricks, though. It's about weaving those incredible moves into a dance routine to tell a story and connect with the audience. It's expressive, challenging, and incredibly rewarding”a perfect mix for kids who love to push their creative and physical limits.

What to Expect in Acro Classes

At SCC, we structure our acro classes to help kids develop strength, confidence, and technique while having a blast. Here's what your dancer will experience when they join one of our classes:

  • Flexibility Training “ Improving range of motion with safe, effective stretches.
  • Strength Building “ Developing core, upper body, and leg strength for powerhouse performance.
  • Tumbling “ Learning fun, high-impact moves like cartwheels, handsprings, walkovers, and aerials.
  • Balancing “ Mastering tricky moves like handstands and headstands with precision.
  • Community and Fun “ Friendship-building games and group exercises that make learning feel less like "work" and more like play.

Essentially, acro is where discipline meets fun”and the results speak for themselves.

Why Acro is Awesome for Kids

Still wondering if your child should try acro? Here are a few benefits that make it so cool (and helpful):

  • It's Challenging and Rewarding “ Success in acro doesn't happen overnight. But each milestone your child achieves, whether it's nailing their first handstand or pulling off an aerial, comes with an incredible sense of accomplishment.
  • It's Versatile “ Acro dance fits seamlessly into other styles, like contemporary and hip hop. Whether your child dreams of performing at Disney, joining a ballet company, or wowing crowds with a cutting-edge hip hop routine, acro gives them skills they can incorporate anywhere.
  • It's a Show-Stopper “ Acrobatic moves add a "wow" factor to any performance, setting dancers apart in auditions and on-stage roles.
  • It Builds Confidence “ Acro requires focus, patience, and practice. Children who stick with it develop a strong sense of body awareness, balance, and self-confidence that can benefit them in all areas of life.

How SCC Teaches Acro

At SCC, we're all about helping kids grow in a safe, encouraging environment. Our instructors are extensively trained in Acrobatics Arts, classical dance styles, and techniques tailored for young learners. They're also CPR and First Aid certified, so you can trust your child is in great hands.

Here's how we set our students up for success in acro dance classes”whether they're beginners or advanced dancers looking to take things to the next level:

  • Personalized Instruction “ Every teacher at SCC is skilled at working with kids of all abilities, ensuring they're learning proper techniques and progressing at their own pace.
  • Skill Charts for Success “ We use detailed skill charts so students clearly see what they've mastered and where they're headed. This builds their confidence while giving them clear goals to work toward.
  • Encouraging Environment “ Whether your child is tumbling for the first time or perfecting a walkover, we celebrate every achievement”big or small.

How Acro Gives Dancers an Edge

If your child dreams of dancing professionally”or if they simply want to be their best on stage”acro can make a big difference. Here's how it can help your dancer stand out:

  • Audition Success “ Adding impressive acrobatic skills to their repertoire can give your child the "extra" wow factor casting directors look for.
  • Better Roles “ Acrobatically trained dancers are often cast for standout solos and more challenging parts in productions.
  • Improved Performance Quality “ Acro enhances strength, flexibility, and control, helping dancers perform with greater power and precision.
  • Healthy Bodies, Injury Prevention “ A strong, well-trained body is less prone to injuries. By focusing on proper technique and conditioning, acro sets kids up for longevity in dance.

Is Acro Right for Your Child?

If your child loves movement, creativity, and adventure, acro could be the perfect addition to their training! We offer kids acro dance classes in San Clemente and acro dance classes in Mission Viejo, making it easy for families across Orange County to get started.

Our acro classes range from beginner to advanced levels, and we have flexible schedules throughout the week. Whether your child is new to dance or looking to expand their skillset, acro is a fun and empowering way to grow as both a dancer and individual.

Sign Up Today!

There's no better time to introduce your child to the magic of acro. With expert instructors, engaging classes, and a welcoming community, South Coast Conservatory is the perfect place to help your child thrive.

Visit our website to find acro classes near you, or give us a call to learn more about scheduling and availability. We can't wait to help your child flip, leap, and balance their way into a world of possibilities!

South Coast Conservatory “ Where passion meets purpose, and every child has the chance to shine.

Laguna Niguel, CA