New York’s hippest dance studio, Downtown Dance Factory is a place where kids regularly jump for joy, whether they’re learning jazz dance, classical ballet, hip hop, tap, or breakdancing (to name just a few of the options). “Our aim is to foster a love of dance and a freedom of self-expression through movement,” say DDF founders—and Tribecans—Hanne Larsen and Melanie Zrihen. “But we also believe in having fun!”

All of which makes Downtown Dance Factory the perfect place for a new performing arts–based preschool alternative, ddfplay.

What is ddfplay?
ddfplay is a preschool alternative program that aims to inspire and nurture through the creative and performing arts, with dance as the primary focus. A typical session:

9 – 9:15: Arrival
9:15 – 9:45: Welcome/free play (books, puzzles, stories, circle time with stretching, singing, and finger plays)
9:45 – 10:15: Dance session 1
10:15 – 10:45: Snack/art
10:45 – 11:15: Dance session 2 or music/drama
11:15 – 11:30: Farewell

Who is it for?
••• Three and four year-olds who love to move!
••• Children not enrolled in full-time preschool whose parents are looking to supplement their weekly schedule.
••• Children whose parents are looking to encourage creativity through dance and play in a nurturing environment.
••• Children whose parents would like them to be tired out in the best possible way.

When is it?
Tuesdays and/or Fridays from September 10, 2013, to June 13, 2014. (Students may be enrolled for one day or both.) Like DDF, the program follows the city’s school calendar.

How do we enroll?
Stop by 291 Broadway (at Reade), 4th floor; call 212-962-1800, or email info@downtowndancefactory.com.

Sponsored by Downtown Dance Factory.