IMA Academy - French Baby Ballet

- 1820 NW 18th Ave, Portland, OR 97209

Nestled in the heart of Portland, Oregon, IMA Academy - French Baby Ballet is a magical place where the youngest members of our community are introduced to the joy and discipline of dance. This women-owned ballet school, founded by the beloved Miss Ella in 2020, is more than just a place to learn pliés and relevés; it is a space designed to inspire a lifelong love of movement and creativity. Unlike more traditional, "serious" ballet schools, IMA Academy focuses on making the learning process fun and accessible for toddlers and preschoolers. The academy's mission is to combine movement with education, and even language, through a unique and engaging curriculum that feels more like a game than a formal lesson.

The atmosphere at IMA Academy is a testament to its philosophy. It is a warm, welcoming, and non-intimidating environment that puts both children and their parents at ease. The success of this approach is echoed in glowing reviews from local families. As one parent shared, "My 3 year old daughter and I love going to Miss Ella's class on Saturday mornings. We tried another more serious ballet school first, but my daughter was very put-off by that experience. Miss Ella's class is different- it's a lot of fun, while still providing great structure and education." This feedback highlights the academy's gift for connecting with young children and making dance a truly positive experience from the very beginning. Miss Ella is consistently praised for her "wonderful rapport with her students" and for being an "incredibly enthusiastic teacher."

IMA Academy - French Baby Ballet is conveniently located at 1820 NW 18th Ave, Portland, OR 97209. Situated in the city's lively Northwest district, the studio is easy to access for families across the Portland metropolitan area. The academy operates out of the Polaris Dance Theatre, a well-known hub in the local arts community, which provides a professional and spacious environment for classes. Accessibility is a key feature, with a wheelchair-accessible entrance, ensuring that all community members can enter the space. The academy also offers gender-neutral toilets, further cementing its commitment to creating an inclusive and welcoming environment for everyone.

The location’s central presence in NW Portland makes it a convenient choice for parents looking for high-quality children's activities. While the focus is on fun, the studio is run with professionalism and a deep understanding of early childhood development. Parents can feel confident that their child is receiving a high-quality education in a safe and supportive setting. The clean, well-maintained studio space provides a bright and cheerful backdrop for the creative and engaging classes that are a hallmark of IMA Academy.

IMA Academy - French Baby Ballet offers a comprehensive range of services tailored specifically for young children, helping them take their first steps into the world of dance.

• Baby Ballet & Toddler Ballet: These classes are designed for the youngest dancers, typically ages 2 to 4. They focus on basic movement, coordination, and an introduction to ballet through creative play, games, and the use of colorful props. The class with Miss Ella is described as "super creative" and makes the learning process "so much fun."

• Preschooler Ballet & Preballet Class: For slightly older children, these classes build on the foundational skills learned in the toddler classes. They introduce more formal ballet techniques in a way that is still engaging and appropriate for their age. The structured approach provides a solid base for future dance education.

• Dance Classes & Dance Theatre: Beyond just ballet, IMA Academy offers dance classes that incorporate a variety of movement forms. The "Dance Theatre" aspect of the curriculum helps children explore storytelling through movement, fostering their creativity and performance skills from a young age.

• Special Events: The academy offers a unique opportunity for "Birthday Parties," providing a fun and memorable way to celebrate a special occasion with friends in a dance-themed environment.

• Online Classes: In addition to in-person classes, IMA Academy provides "Online Classes" as a convenient option for families who prefer to learn from home, offering flexibility and accessibility.

Several key features and highlights distinguish IMA Academy - French Baby Ballet as a premier choice for parents in the Oregon region.

• Exceptional Instructor, Miss Ella: Miss Ella is consistently praised for her natural ability to connect with young children. Her teaching style, which combines structured learning with creative games and props, makes the classes both educational and entertaining, inspiring a genuine love for dance.

• Focus on Fun and Education: The academy’s unique approach prioritizes fun and emotional well-being over strict, rigid technique, especially for very young children. This ensures a positive first experience with dance that encourages continued participation.

• Women-Owned Business: IMA Academy is a proud women-owned business, which contributes to the diversity and strength of the local Portland community. Supporting the academy means supporting a mission-driven, locally-run organization.

• Inclusive Environment: With a wheelchair-accessible entrance and gender-neutral toilets, the academy is committed to creating an environment that is welcoming to all families. This dedication to inclusivity is a testament to its community-focused mission.

For more information on class schedules, programs, or to enroll your child, you can contact IMA Academy - French Baby Ballet.

Address: 1820 NW 18th Ave, Portland, OR 97209, USA

Phone: (971) 238-7151

What is worth choosing IMA Academy - French Baby Ballet is its exceptional ability to introduce young children to the art of dance in a way that is joyful and inspiring. The reviews from satisfied parents speak volumes about the quality of instruction and the nurturing environment created by Miss Ella. For families in Oregon who want their child to develop a lifelong appreciation for dance, and to build confidence and coordination in a fun, positive setting, IMA Academy is the perfect choice. It’s a place where children can not only learn ballet but also learn to love the process of moving and creating, setting them on a path of physical and emotional growth for years to come.

IMA Academy - French Baby Ballet

1820 NW 18th Ave, Portland, OR 97209, USA