Pick Reilly's Activity: Dance or Martial Arts (with POLL)

Hi all. I am thinking about the upcoming fall when my DD will be turning 3 and what activity I will be signing her up for. I'm debating between dance class or a martial arts class (specifically LI Ninjitsu). DD is pretty coordinated, I think. As far as cost is concerned, I figure they are similar, though I have not gotten the MA fee schedule yet. Does anyone have any input as to which one to pick and why?

Message edited 2/19/2011 11:57:05 AM.

Re: Pick Reilly's Activity: Dance or Martial Arts (with POLL)

I don't know much about either but I'd think the goals of each are different. It was always my understanding that both promote physical fitness, but I'd think that a martial arts program would also teach self-discipline and respect in addition to self defense. Id LOVE to get my kids into martial arts. I've also heard that it is good for kids with ADHD.

Re: Pick Reilly's Activity: Dance or Martial Arts (with POLL)

I don't know where you are located... But Silbers Martial Arts is an amazing program! She would love it! It is in Franklin Square on Dogwood Ave.

I know many kids that go there, and as soon as Carlie is old enough she will be enrolled!

Re: Pick Reilly's Activity: Dance or Martial Arts (with POLL)

Re: Pick Reilly's Activity: Dance or Martial Arts (with POLL)

Re: Pick Reilly's Activity: Dance or Martial Arts (with POLL)

DD turned 3 in October and we are doing Martial Arts.

IMO, I am not a fan of what many dance schools have become, even at such a young age.

Re: Pick Reilly's Activity: Dance or Martial Arts (with POLL)

OK Gabi I'm giving you the straight dope - martial arts would win my $, hands down.
I took MA as a teenager for a few years, it was tons of fun and I enjoyed it.
My DH, back in Dublin, fell into the martial arts around age 17 and has been at it over 25 years now. He swears it kept him out of jail I figured you'd like that. While all his buddies were getting trotted down to the cop shop for nicking cars and such, he was getting out all of his teenage angst in a healthier way.
So he is a big fan.
He's getting serious about his upcoming black belt test (in ju-jitsu) and actually teaches a ju-jitsu class to pee wees ages 5-9. He LOVES it and can't wait to get Shane in it.
I feel like dance is just so cliche for little girls and MA is not (not yet anyway). I took ballet lessons with my sister and she was awesome while I haaaaaated it. HATED. IT.

At this age I just think it's fun to expose them to everything, and see what sticks, kwim????

Re: Pick Reilly's Activity: Dance or Martial Arts (with POLL)

What about gymnastics?

Re: Pick Reilly's Activity: Dance or Martial Arts (with POLL)

I think it all depends on your DD's personality.

When our Ryleigh turns 3, we are going to look at starting her with music lessons. She is SO musical...sings her way through the day, sings her way around the house, and we just feel that's the avenue that we should explore for her.

I do agree with the OP though, that dance lessons have gotten a bit ridiculous with the expensive costumes, competition, etc. When I took ballet in elementary school, it was through the PAL program in Farmingdale. I think my mom paid something like $10 for 4 months. I just wore a leotard, tights and ballet shoes. Our "recitals" were low-key, we wore the same outfit as for our classes and they were held in the school auditorium! I remember it like it was yesterday, it was so much fun! I don't think I would have enjoyed it nearly as much if it had been more of a competitive feel.

Re: Pick Reilly's Activity: Dance or Martial Arts (with POLL)

DD is 3 and is all about her dance class.

she loves her dance outifts and her tap and ballet shoes. she is learing the basics and having fun.

Re: Pick Reilly's Activity: Dance or Martial Arts (with POLL)

Thanks so much for the responses ladies!! Like you've all stated, MA teaches discipline, respect and physical fitness. And being that DH and I run a very tight ship, I feel as though this is a great match. Added to that, is the fact that I have ALWAYS wanted to learn a MA myself, but have put it off for many years. So maybe, this is something that I would like her to try since I wanted it for myself before life got in the way. What makes me question just going thru with MA is that fact that Reilly loves music so much. She loves boppin with the Fresh Beats and Jacks Big Music Show. Hmmm... what to do, what to do.

Re: Pick Reilly's Activity: Dance or Martial Arts (with POLL)

Re: Pick Reilly's Activity: Dance or Martial Arts (with POLL)

Re: Pick Reilly's Activity: Dance or Martial Arts (with POLL)

Posted by twinkletoes807

Posted by SHOPAHOLIC

What about gymnastics?

I never thought of this. I will look into it too. Thanks so much for the suggestion!

Re: Pick Reilly's Activity: Dance or Martial Arts (with POLL)

Posted by twinkletoes807

Posted by CarlieJLD7

I don't know where you are located... But Silbers Martial Arts is an amazing program! She would love it! It is in Franklin Square on Dogwood Ave.

I know many kids that go there, and as soon as Carlie is old enough she will be enrolled!

Thanks! I just to live in NHP growing up, but now live out in East Islip. I hope Carlie loves it!

Re: Pick Reilly's Activity: Dance or Martial Arts (with POLL)

Re: Pick Reilly's Activity: Dance or Martial Arts (with POLL)

If i had the money I'd go MA any day

Teaches balance and tumbling. Since I'm a clutz and so is she, I think MA will most benefit her. Dance I know she likes but if *I* was choosing I'd go MA

I'm still looking into it. Our school offers Dance and I've seen it (rather lame just lets the kids play around while sometimes doing a productive thing) I wasn't impressed. But I'm sure a REAL Dance class would be different.

Re: Pick Reilly's Activity: Dance or Martial Arts (with POLL)

From the business aspect, I'm going to be biased and of course say dance. But Martial arts is great as well! Have you considered putting her into summer programs and letting her decide? Most places I know have 'mini sessions' in the summer. It's a great way to introduce her to both and see which she is most excited for!

I've seen children go from shy, quiet 3 year olds to teenagers who have so much confidence! Dancing on a stage can really bring that out in someone! I believe that martial arts can do the same! See which way her personality is leading her!

Re: Pick Reilly's Activity: Dance or Martial Arts (with POLL)

Posted by twinkletoes807

Posted by CarlieJLD7

I don't know where you are located... But Silbers Martial Arts is an amazing program! She would love it! It is in Franklin Square on Dogwood Ave.

I know many kids that go there, and as soon as Carlie is old enough she will be enrolled!

Thanks! I just to live in NHP growing up, but now live out in East Islip. I hope Carlie loves it!