Dancing Dreams

- 211-47 26th Ave, Bayside, NY 11360

Dancing Dreams: A Community Where Every Child Can Dance

In the bustling heart of New York City and its surrounding boroughs, finding inclusive and empowering programs for children with physical and medical challenges can be a journey. Dancing Dreams, a non-profit organization located in Bayside, Queens, has been a beacon of hope and a place of joy for many families in the New York region. This organization is not just a dance studio; it is a community built on the belief that every child, regardless of their physical abilities, deserves the chance to experience the magic of dance. They have created a supportive and professional environment where children can thrive, express themselves, and build lasting friendships.

Founded by Joann Ferrara, a pediatric physical therapist, Dancing Dreams was born from a simple yet profound need. She was inspired to make the dream of dancing a reality for children who were often excluded from traditional dance classes. The organization's mission is to provide dance classes and performance opportunities for children with physical and medical challenges. Their programs are designed to be adaptive, ensuring that each dancer can participate to the best of their unique ability. The focus is always on what the child can do, rather than any perceived limitations. By offering a safe, encouraging, and celebratory space, Dancing Dreams helps its participants grow in confidence and self-esteem, both on and off the dance floor. The annual performance is a highlight for the children and their families, showcasing the dedication, progress, and sheer joy of the dancers.

Location and Accessibility

Dancing Dreams has multiple locations to serve families across the tristate region, with a primary office and one of their class sites situated in the Bayside neighborhood of Queens, New York. The location is easily accessible for residents of Queens, Long Island, and beyond. Its presence in the Bay Terrace Shopping Center at 211-47 26th Ave, Bayside, NY 11360, places it within a convenient and familiar community hub. The organization also holds classes at locations in Upper East Side, Manhattan, and Plainview, Long Island, expanding its reach to help more children. For New York locals, the Bayside location is a key point of reference, providing a dedicated space for dance classes and community activities.

Services Offered

Dancing Dreams provides a variety of services centered around its core mission of providing dance and community to children with physical challenges.

• Adaptive Dance Classes: The cornerstone of the program, these classes are tailored to meet the unique needs of children with a wide range of physical and medical challenges. Classes are taught by pediatric physical or occupational therapists, ensuring that activities are not only engaging but also safe and beneficial for each child. Dancers are exposed to a variety of styles, including ballet, tap, jazz, and hip hop.
• Annual Performance: The culmination of a year's worth of hard work and dedication, the annual performance is a spectacular event. It features elaborate sets and numerous costume changes, celebrating the achievements of all the participants. The event is a true showcase of their talent and newfound confidence.
• Teen Leadership Program: A unique aspect of the program is the involvement of teen volunteers, known as "Helpers." These high school students are paired one-on-one with a dancer, providing assistance during weekly classes and at performances. The program is designed to develop leadership skills, empathy, and a deeper understanding of disability awareness among the youth volunteers.
• Community Outreach: Dancing Dreams is also dedicated to spreading its message of inclusivity and awareness. The organization participates in community outreach, particularly using their book "Ballerina Dreams" as a tool to speak to elementary school children about tolerance and understanding.
• Donation and Fundraising Opportunities: As a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, Dancing Dreams relies on charitable contributions to sustain its programs. They offer various ways for individuals and companies to support their mission, from direct donations to participating in their annual performance journal.

Features / Highlights

• Expert Staff: The classes are led by pediatric physical or occupational therapists, bringing a high level of professional care and expertise to the program. This specialized approach ensures that the dance instruction is both safe and effective for the participants' specific needs.
• Focus on Abilities, Not Disabilities: The program's philosophy is built around empowering each child to advance within their own limits and maximize their potential. This positive approach creates an environment where children feel capable and celebrated.
• One-on-One Support: Each dancer is paired with a dedicated high school "Helper." This one-on-one partnership provides personalized assistance and fosters a strong sense of friendship and community. It is a powerful dynamic that benefits both the dancers and the volunteers.
• Inclusive Dance Styles: The curriculum includes a wide range of dance styles, from classical ballet and tap to modern jazz and hip hop. This variety allows dancers to explore different forms of expression and find what they love most.
• Community and Friendship: Beyond the dance steps, Dancing Dreams creates a place of belonging. It provides a community where children with similar experiences can connect, and where families can find support and understanding.

Contact Information

For more information, local New Yorkers can get in touch with Dancing Dreams using the following details:

Address: 211-47 26th Ave, Bayside, NY 11360, USA

Phone: (516) 659-8704

What Is Worth Choosing

For New York families looking for a dance program for their child with physical challenges, Dancing Dreams stands out as a unique and invaluable resource. While some public feedback has raised concerns regarding individual experiences with staff interactions, these reviews must be considered within the larger context of the organization's mission and its positive impact on the lives of many children. The core of Dancing Dreams is its commitment to inclusivity, and the fact that it is an entirely nonprofit organization underscores its dedication to its mission over profit. The program is specifically designed to cater to children who might otherwise be excluded from traditional dance environments, offering them not just dance lessons, but a pathway to self-confidence and self-discovery. The use of professional therapists as instructors is a significant advantage, providing a safe and adapted experience. The teen volunteer program is another key differentiator, as it creates a powerful network of peer support that enriches the lives of both the dancers and the volunteers. While every individual experience may differ, the long-standing reputation of the organization, its clear mission, and its professional approach to adaptive dance make it a worthy choice for families seeking a compassionate and specialized program for their child. It is a place where a child's dream of dancing can truly become a reality, in a community that understands and celebrates their unique abilities. The organization's motto, "dancing for every child," highlights its commitment to a noble and inclusive cause, aiming to bring the transformative power of dance to those who need it most.

Dancing Dreams

211-47 26th Ave, Bayside, NY 11360, USA