Mini Stars Dance Classes (Ages 6–8) in Tinley Park Building Strong Foundations Through Fun and Focus
Mini Stars is the perfect next step for young dancers who are ready to learn more and have fun doing it. Designed for ages 6 to 8, this beginner-friendly program offers ballet, tap, jazz, hip hop, and tumbling—all in an upbeat, structured setting. Classes focus on developing coordination, rhythm, strength, and early performance skills while encouraging creativity and confidence. With patient instruction and a supportive atmosphere, dancers are guided at a pace that helps them grow in both skill and self-esteem. At Southwest Synergy Dance, we create a space where kids feel proud of what they’re learning—and excited to keep coming back.
Get more information about our classes and schedule on the next page!
Confidence, Coordination, and Connection Start Here
Every Mini Stars class blends fun with focused skill-building. Dancers strengthen balance, flexibility, and control through age-appropriate technique in ballet, tap, jazz, hip hop, and tumbling. With each new step, they sharpen body awareness and gain the physical tools that support long-term success in dance.
Progress is easy to see—and celebrate. As dancers begin to master sequences, try new skills, and remember routines, they feel the reward of their own growth. That steady improvement helps build confidence they carry into school, activities, and everyday life.
Mini Stars is more than just class time—it’s a community. Dancers learn to work as a team, support their classmates, and form friendships that last. With every shared routine and high-five, they’re reminded that they’re part of something fun, encouraging, and meaningful.
Building Skills That Stick and Confidence That Shows
Mini Stars is a beginner-level program built for kids ages 6 to 8 who are ready for more structure and eager to learn. This is the stage where dancers start remembering steps, using real dance terms, and moving with intention. With styles including ballet, tap, jazz, hip hop, and tumbling, every class is designed to build solid technique while keeping energy high and learning fun. Instructors guide students with patience and clarity, helping each dancer improve at their own pace. As skills grow, so does self-confidence—making every class a chance to shine, explore, and take pride in progress.
Why Families Keep Choosing Southwest Synergy Dance
We make it easy to fit dance into your weekly routine. With multiple class times across programs and age groups, many siblings can attend on the same day—minimizing trips and simplifying your schedule. From weekday evenings to weekend mornings, you’ll find options that work for your family’s rhythm.
Your child’s well-being comes first. Our classes are led by experienced instructors who focus on safe technique, positive guidance, and age-appropriate instruction. Dancers are supported, encouraged, and treated with respect—so they feel confident stepping into class and proud walking out.
There’s something special about the energy here. Whether it’s dancers clapping for each other, parents chatting in the hallway, or teachers greeting every student by name, our community is built on real connection. Families feel welcome, included, and supported—both in and out of the classroom.
How Mini Stars Stands Out from Typical Youth Programs
For kids ages 6 to 8, the environment they learn in shapes how they grow—on every level. While youth sports or general fitness programs may focus mostly on physical output, our Mini Stars program gives dancers room to grow in confidence, skill, and creativity. Here’s how Southwest Synergy Dance compares.
Primarily centered on physical activity and gameplay
May prioritize more experienced or competitive participants
Performance is often team-based and outcome-driven
Limited one-on-one instruction due to large team sizes
Encourages skill-building, creativity, musical awareness, and emotional growth
Every child is welcomed, supported, and guided based on their individual needs
Progress is celebrated individually in a classroom-style environment
Small class sizes and attentive instructors offer personalized coaching
Confidence Grows with
Every Class
Mini Stars introduces dancers ages 6 to 8 to foundational styles—ballet, tap, jazz, hip hop, and tumbling—through structured classes that keep movement fun, focused, and rewarding. Each session combines technique with play-based learning, giving kids a chance to move with intention while still feeling free to explore, create, and enjoy.
Instruction at this level encourages dancers to take in vocabulary, structure, and patterns in a way that feels achievable. Skills like balance, rhythm, coordination, and spatial awareness are built gradually, with teachers offering clear guidance and steady support. Whether dancers are moving across the floor, practicing positions, or learning short combinations, every activity has purpose—and every child has room to shine.
As the year progresses, dancers begin to take more ownership of their learning. With regular practice and positive reinforcement, they start to remember choreography, respond to music, and dance with more confidence. It all culminates in a joyful performance at our end-of-year recital—a moment where their growth is celebrated in front of family and friends, and every step on stage reflects how far they’ve come.
Well-Rounded Classes That Keep Kids Moving and Motivated
Mini Stars gives young dancers a well-balanced start by blending core styles—ballet, tap, jazz, hip hop, and tumbling—into a program that feels fresh, engaging, and purposeful. Each class is carefully designed to help children build coordination, flexibility, rhythm, and expressive movement skills in a setting that feels both structured and fun.
Instructors lead with clarity and warmth, offering instruction that helps dancers understand technique while still enjoying the process. From mastering tap combinations and hip hop grooves to building strength through tumbling and refining positions in ballet, students are exposed to a wide range of movement that keeps them challenged and excited to learn.
What sets this level apart is how it balances focused learning with creativity. Dancers are supported as individuals but also learn how to work as part of a team—developing self-discipline, listening skills, and confidence along the way. Class time includes both repetition to reinforce technique and opportunities for playful exploration, so dancers stay engaged while continuing to improve.
By the end of the season, Mini Stars dancers are not only stronger and more skilled—they’re also proud of their progress. The year wraps with a high-energy recital where each dancer gets to step into the spotlight and celebrate all they’ve achieved in front of family and friends.
Confidence Rises, Coordination Improves, Expression Comes Alive
Mini Stars is about more than learning steps—it’s about shaping how children grow, inside and out. Each class introduces dancers to the skills they need not only for dance, but for life: timing, body control, focus, and the confidence to express themselves through movement. It’s where technique and imagination work together to build something lasting.
As dancers explore styles like ballet, tap, jazz, hip hop, and tumbling, they’re also learning how to stay present, follow instruction, and collaborate in a group. These experiences teach responsibility, listening, and perseverance—skills that support them in school, at home, and in everyday situations.
Our instructors know that encouragement matters. That’s why each class is guided with care, offering structured lessons, personalized support, and meaningful feedback. Every dancer is given the chance to feel seen, successful, and proud of what they’re working toward.
When recital time comes, it’s more than just a performance—it’s a reflection of everything they’ve gained throughout the season. Mini Stars take the stage with enthusiasm, ready to share their progress and celebrate their achievements in front of the people who cheer them on the most.
Early Experiences That Shape Confidence and Character
Mini Stars isn’t just about learning to dance—it’s about creating meaningful experiences that children carry with them. At this age, every high-five, every smile, and every shared routine becomes part of a memory that builds self-esteem and connection. Through consistent class structure and uplifting instruction, dancers discover that learning can be fun, rewarding, and full of heart.
Each week brings something special—rhythm challenges, partner work, silly warm-ups, and class traditions that turn routines into memories. Along the way, dancers bond with peers, cheer each other on, and feel what it means to be part of a positive, welcoming group. These early friendships and classroom moments often become the highlights of their season—and sometimes their childhood.
When it’s time to perform, dancers take the stage not just with choreography, but with pride in everything they’ve worked toward. Families celebrate from the audience, and dancers leave knowing their effort was meaningful. These are the kinds of memories that don’t fade: the joy of learning something new, the support of a teacher who believes in them, and the feeling of belonging to a studio that truly cares.
Get more information about our classes and schedule on the next page!
FAQs
Mini Stars is designed to support more than physical movement. Dancers build coordination, balance, and musicality—but they also learn patience, teamwork, focus, and the value of consistent effort. Every class helps children grow in confidence, develop stronger listening and social skills, and feel proud of their progress in a warm, structured setting.
Yes. Mini Stars is a beginner-level program that welcomes both brand-new dancers and those with some experience. Instruction is tailored to each child’s needs, so whether your dancer is learning their first plié or refining basic steps, they’ll feel supported and encouraged every step of the way.
Dancers explore a variety of foundational styles including ballet, tap, jazz, hip hop, and tumbling. This mix helps students build a well-rounded skill set and keeps class time active, creative, and engaging. It also allows each dancer to discover what they enjoy most.
Absolutely. Each Mini Stars class is designed for children ages 6 to 8, with age-appropriate technique, pacing, and expectations. Instructors break down movement into clear steps and keep the environment positive and supportive. Proper form, injury prevention, and safe progression are built into every lesson.
A little encouragement goes a long way. Helping your child stay consistent with class attendance, cheering on their progress, and showing interest in what they’re learning—like watching them rehearse or playing their favorite dance songs—can boost confidence and motivation. Small moments of support make a big impact.
What Parents and Dancers Say About Their Southwest Synergy Experience
Our community is the heart of everything we do. From first-time dancers in Mini Stars to teens preparing for advanced training, families trust Southwest Synergy Dance because they see real growth—and feel real connection. These words come straight from the parents and students who know our studio best. Their stories reflect the support, progress, and sense of belonging that make our programs more than just weekly classes. Here’s what they’ve shared about the impact of our dance family—and why they keep coming back season after season.
This is my daughters 5th year dancing at Southwest Synergy Dance and we could not be happier with our experience! Dance started out as just a Saturday morning activity and now this studio has become our second home. The friendships my daughter has made here are irreplaceable!
The director and instructors all work very hard to make sure each dancer can reach their personal dance goals. They go above and beyond by offering community service opportunities, leadership classes, and other activities to help provide the kids a well-rounded experience.
Whether you are looking for recreational or competitive dance, this is the place to be!
We have been with dance at synergy for 5 years now! My daughter started in diapers and now shes on the dance team. I have really seen her confidence grow over those years. She LOVES going to dance at synergy and loves all the instructors. All the older dancers are so helpful to the younger girls and my daughter always really feels included !
My daughter has been dancing at Synergy for the last four years and on there pre-company team for the last two years. The teachers are dedicated, encouraging and knowledgeable! They push and prepare our kids to do their best as dancers on and off the floor!
My daughter has been dancing here for 7 years now, and we couldn't be happier! Every year I am in awe by how much my daughter has grown as a dancer. Her confidence level, her stage presence, her technique, and more is all thanks to the wonderful and amazing teachers and staff. They make the classes fun and engaging at all levels. My daughter has formed long-lasting friendships with many of the kids in her classes.
This studio is more than just dance, though! Not only does Synergy offer a variety of classes, but they host special events, workshops, and camps throughout the year. I also love that they focus on giving back to the community throughout the year through their service society.
When my daughter was diagnosed with cancer during her second year at the studio, the studio owner was incredibly supportive and got us into contact with a national dance organization that provided us with financial assistance with our medical bills. And while we didn't dance much that year, the studio kept in contact with us, checked in on my daughter frequently, and even invited us to the annual recital where they surprised my daughter with a costume and called her on stage to accept flowers from the kids in her class. I will forever be thankful for their support during that year.
This studio is truly a second home to my daughter, one she never wants to leave at the end of the night.
Our daughters have been dancing at Southwest Synergy for 6 years. We absolutely love it! We love the front desk staff, the teachers, all of the class options and the amazing friends they have made through dance. The teachers have instilled a level of self confidence in our girls that is hard to match. If you are looking to start dance, or gain additional skills and techniques, we highly recommend Synergy. It is a first class experience!
We love Southwest Synergy Dance! My three year old daughter loves coming to class every week. Danielle is a very patient and caring teacher.
She keeps the students engaged and motivated throughout the entire class. My daughter has learned so much. I love that her class includes tap, ballet, and acro and that it lasts 45 minutes. All other preschool classes that I looked at were only 30 minutes in length. I also believe that the prices for classes are very reasonable. All staff is amazingly kind and helpful. We can't wait for the recital coming up in the spring!
We love it here! This is my son's third year and he is 5. Ms.Connie is the best and has been his teacher for the whole time from ballet and tap and now hip hop. I am amazed at how she can corral a group of little toddlers or kids. It is a great family atmosphere and the whole staff is wonderful. It is a an enjoyable experience to come to dance every week.
Fantastic dance studio. We have been with Synergy for 6 yrs now. Both of my daughters love being at dance. They have gained so much from Synergy and formed amazing friendships while doing what they love...dancing. I highly recommend, the teachers and staff are amazing and very helpful.
My daughters have been dancing with Synergy for 3 years now. They are very patient with my daughters. They are very informative and well organized. They have a very friendly staff.
Synergy is a wonderful studio with teachers who love and work hard so that every student feels successful. My daughter has loved every class over the past 5 years!
We have been with Southwest Synergy for 10 years and have enjoyed every minute of it. We love the studio, the instructors and the director, Connie O’Reel. The studio only has the kids best interest at heart and gives them every opportunity to be grow and be challenged. We also have a lot of fun! We love our dance family!!
We have been a part of the Synergy family for seven years which speaks for itself how great the studio is. It’s not just a dance studio but a family/community that enables dancers to learn and grow while offering a safe and caring environment. The director and her staff are 100% invested in their dancers growth, confidence, and happiness and not just how many trophys/awards are won. So glad we made the decision all those years ago to try out a class not knowing it would end up being a huge part of our lives for all these years.
I truly cannot speak highly enough about Southwest Synergy Dance and my daughter's experience there! She loves the classes, teachers, and fellow dancers. Through participating in the service projects and extra activities the studio offers, she has also learned much more than dance technique- character, citizenship, social skills, etc. The studio is amazing and everyone who works there is too.
My daughters have been dancing at Synergy for 6 years. My girls started as shy dancers - standing still at recital…to bringing so much energy, skill, and passion for dancing on the stage.
But at Synergy, they learn much more than dancing. The amazing director, helpful staff and talented teachers give life lessons that serve them well beyond the dance floor. They learn about making and reaching for goals. They learn about working as a team and caring for others. They gain confidence while being kind. They learn how to be strong while being graceful.
When you dance at Synergy, you have so much fun and you become part of a family!
My children have taken classes at Southwest Synergy Dance for the past few years. The teachers and staff go out of their way to make each child feel welcomed and important. Both of my children have progressed so much in their skills, techniques, and confidence! The teachers are patient and encouraging as they meet the students where they are and help them to progress forward to reach their goals. I am in awe of the growth my children have made! We have tried lots of different activities throughout the years, but dance at Southwest Synergy is far and away my kids' favorite! They love their teachers, classes, and dance friends!
My 2 year old daughter LOVES her dance class, Baby Stars! It's the perfect introduction for dance! Her teacher, Miss Rae, makes the class enjoyable as well as instructive! I highly recommend Southwest Synergy Dance, you won't be disappointed!
Synergy has been more than just a dance studio for my daughter. It’s like her home away from home, a place where she feels comfortable to be herself and grow her passion for dance. She has made lasting friendships and core memories. She has been dancing here for 7 years and has grown so much as a dancer thanks to the wonderful teachers. The studio owner and Director does so much for these dancers and has been there to support my daughter since her very first class as a 2 yr old.
We love everything about Southwest Synergy! My daughter has been dancing with them for 6 years and absolutely loves all of the teachers and staff members. Everyone is amazing there and makes you feel as though you are apart of the Synergy family from the get-go. We are very fortunate to have found a dance home with Mrs. Connie & team!
My daughter has been dancing at Synergy for 5 years now and absolutely loves it! She looks forward to coming to her classes. She is learning so much and gained the confidence to try out other dance classes they offer.
We have been a part of Southwest Synergy for about 8 years; my daughters absolutely love their time at the studio! The studio owner and all the teachers are fantastic. My kids look up to them and the teachers have the best interest of their students- classes are structured so that dancers remain engaged and motivated all while having fun and learning appropriate techniques. Whether recreational classes or competitive dance, the studio is committed to a dancer’s artistic growth, fostering their love of dance! Southwest Synergy has given my daughters confidence, friendships, and wonderful opportunities. Outside of dance classes, the studio offers various service projects and opportunities for dancers to engage in the community.
It has been a joy to watch my girls grow at Synergy and we are grateful to the teachers for their support. Highly recommend Southwest Synergy to any family looking for a great dance experience for their children!
My daughter who has been dancing at Synergy for 5 years now and I cannot imagine a better studio for her! Everyone has been amazing over the years. My daughter loves everything about her classes and now my son is taking them as well. We are very happy to be apart of the Synergy family!
I highly recommend Southwest Synergy Dance (SWSD). My daughter's experience has been exceptional, as she has developed not only excellent dance technique--evident in the many dancers who excel in competitions/promotions--but also valuable life skills like accountability and responsibility. SWSD fosters a positive and nurturing environment that encourages personal growth and development, supported by an incredibly professional and caring staff. My daughter feels valued and respected, and I'm confident that SWSD is the ideal place for young dancers to learn, grow, and thrive.
We have been dancing with Synergy for 5 years now and absolutely love it. The instructors are all absolutely amazing. Front desk staff is always friendly and helpful. The studio offers a wide range of classes for all ages in various genres of dance, with opportunities to participate in Christmas shows, spring recitals, service projects, mentor programs, summer classes, and the list goes on. And you can commit to as much or as little as you'd like, so whether you're looking to dance competitively or just for fun, they have something for everyone. We couldn't be happier!
Extra Benefits That Make a Big Difference
Predictable class structure helps young dancers feel focused, comfortable, and ready to learn.
Dance gives kids a healthy, screen-free way to move, create, and recharge after the school day.
Dancers get recital experience in a supportive way that builds stage confidence without pressure.
Families stay informed with class updates, reminders, and performance details sent directly to them.
Get more information about our classes and schedule on the next page!