Youth Dance Classes

We are proud to offer youth dance classes as a means of fostering a love for dance. Since 2015, The Moss Center has provided fun and inclusive dance classes for the youth in our community.

Based on the community’s response, we have shifted our dance program to include two different categories:
  • Hip Hop Dance Class for ages 7-14

The reduced pricing of this class is intended to assist families who are experiencing financial limitations (see eligibility requirements below).

  • Therapeutic Dance Classes for Child Development

A pilot program that combines dance & occupational therapy principles. Small group classes for children with disabilities (i.e., ASD, ADHD, Cerebral Palsy, Down Syndrome, etc.) for ages 4-6 & 7-12.

Open House/In-Person Registration for the Fall 2025 classes will take place on Saturday, August 30th from 1pm – 3pm. at the Dennis C. Moss Cultural Arts Center’s Dance Rehearsal Studio.

Registration will be first-come, first serve, and will close early if classes reach capacity. This will be in an in-person opportunity to register for the Hip Hop class (proof of government assistance required) and an opportunity to learn more about the Therapeutic Dance program from the instructor herself! Registration will be open for all classes on this day.

All classes have eligibility requirements that are explored further in their respective section. Please click below for eligibility, costs and registration details.

12-week Program: September 15th– December 9th

Youth Hip Hop (Ages 7 to 14) with Ms. Aimee
  • Tuesdays and Thursdays from 5:00-5:50 pm | 50 min |
    • Students must be the age of 7 by the registration date to enroll in this course.
In this Hip Hop class, students will experience a fun and confidence-boosting approach to dance! Students will build on their coordination, rhythm, memorization and performance by finding their own groove and learning choreography to fun songs. This class is open to beginners as well as experienced dancers.

Cost:
  • Because this class is at a reduced cost, proof of some type of government assistance (ex. SNAP program, Medicaid, CHIP program, Proof of Residence in Public/Subsidized Housing, etc.) is required to be shown at the time of registration.
  • Household Registration fee: $25 for Fall 2025.
  • One time $90 fee for entire12-week program per child.
  • All fees are non-refundable. There are no refunds or credits for missed or canceled class days.
Cost example: If you would like to sign up two children for the hip hop class, you would pay one $25 household registration fee and $90 per child, totaling to $205 for the entire 12-week program. Only one child interested in the program would cost $115.

Registration:

  • In-Person registration ONLY. If you missed the in-person registration date, please email educate-smdcac@miamidade.gov to schedule an appointment while spots last!

There will be NO CLASS on the following days, in accordance with M-DCPS and Legal Holidays:
  • Tuesday, Nov 11th
  • Thanksgiving Break: Nov 24-27

Hip Hop Dance Instructor: Ms. Aimee
Aimee Henriquez is a talented and versatile dancer with a diverse background in multiple dance styles. She developed a passion for dance, training extensively in ballet, modern, jazz, and hip hop. Aimee has had the honor of performing as a dancer for the renowned Miami Heat Dancers and the Miami Marlins Dancers, where she showcased her skills in high-energy performances at major sporting events. Her stage presence and precision made her a standout member of both teams. In addition to her work with sports teams, Aimee has toured with prominent artists, bringing her versatility and dynamic style to stages around the world.

Beyond performing, Aimee is a dedicated and experienced dance teacher in both school dance teams and dance studio settings, inspiring the next generation of dancers. With her extensive technical training and real-world experience, she brings a unique perspective to her students, offering them a comprehensive education in dance. Her ability to connect with students and share her love for dance has made her a respected instructor in the Miami dance community.

Led by Licensed Occupational Therapist Adalys Suarez
7-week Program: September 15th– October 29th

This 7-week program combines dance & occupational therapy principles in a group setting to have fun while improving motor skills, sensory integration, self-regulation, and overall well-being through rhythmic movement. The program is geared for children with disabilities (i.e., ASD, ADHD, Cerebral Palsy, Down Syndrome, etc.) and is designed for children and their parent/caregiver to attend the classes together. Class size is limited, and registration will close when capacity is reached.

Eligibility criteria:
  • No history of aggressive behaviors
  • Able to follow basic instructions with guidance
  • Caregiver/parent will attend and participate in class with child. No drop-offs.

Age Ranges and Schedule:
  • Motion Explorers (Ages 7 to 12)
    • Wednesdays from 5:00-5:50 pm | 50 min
      • Students must be the age of 7 by the registration date to enroll in this course.
      • 7-week Time Frame: September 17th – October 29th, 2025
In this movement class geared for children with disabilities between 7 to 12 years old, the focus will be understanding sensory systems, self-regulation, self-esteem, social skills, self-expression, attention, and sequencing. Dance exercises will be used to teach children how to activate core muscles and bilateral coordination for functional mobility and proper alignment. Children will participate in music-based exercises to address auditory processing and motor planning all while having fun.

  • Mindful Movers (Ages 13 to 16)
    • Mondays from 5:00-5:50 pm | 50 min
      • Students must be the age of 13 by the registration date to enroll in this course.
      • 7-week Time Frame: September 22nd – November 3rd, 2025

In this movement class geared for teens with disabilities, dance and music-based exercised will be used to focus on emotional expression, self-esteem, stress reduction, motor coordination, strength, endurance, sensory regulation, social interactions, and executive functioning skills in a fun and engaging manner.

Caregiver/parent attends and participates in class with child. No drop-offs allowed.

Registration:
  • Online Registration can be found on our Event Page. Registration will remain open until the first day of class, however, if capacity is reached before start of classes, registration period closes. Class size is limited.
  • If you have any questions or concerns, please email educate-smdcac@miamidade.gov

Cost:
• One time $145 fee for entire 7-week program.
• All fees are non-refundable. There are no refunds or credits for missed or canceled class days.

Other Details:
  • Once signed up, you will be receiving email communication with a form to fill out.
  • Caregiver/parent attends and participates in class with child. No drop-offs allowed.
There will be NO CLASS on the following days, in accordance with M-DCPS and Legal Holidays:
  • Monday, October 13

Therapeutic Dance Classes Instructor: Ms. Adalys
Adalys Suarez is a state-licensed and nationally registered occupational therapist with over five years of experience supporting children and adults in building essential life skills. Born in Cuba and raised in Miami from the age of 10, Adalys speaks both English and Spanish and connects deeply with families from diverse backgrounds. She has been passionate about dance since she was 3 years old and is now dedicated to combining dance and occupational therapy principles to enhance self-regulation, motor coordination, strength, endurance, memory, attention, sensory processing skills, sequencing, and more – all which are foundational skills for success at home, in school, and in the community. In her free time, she enjoys exploring nature, relaxing at home with her husband and their dog, and traveling.