Move with confidence. Every step is yours.

Improving self-confidence of neurodivergent 2nd - 5th grade students through dance.

About

Problem

Neurodivergent children often face barriers to self-expression and confidence, especially in environments that prioritize performance over comfort. Many simply need a space where they can move, explore, and be themselves without feeling any pressure or judgment.

Mission

Own Your Step is a youth-led dance program that builds confidence and self-expression in neurodivergent students in grades 2–5. Through inclusive movement and mentorship from high school dancers, students are encouraged to move at their own pace in a supportive, judgment-free space.

Benefits

1. Small, Supportive Groups

3. Confidence Through Movement

2. Expression Over Perfection

Students feel safer expressing themselves and sharing ideas in small group settings.

2. Expression Over Perfection

3. Confidence Through Movement

2. Expression Over Perfection

Our focus is on finding movement that each student finds comfortable and exciting.

3. Confidence Through Movement

Dance strengthens coordination, body awareness, and balance.

4. Relatability = Connection

3. Confidence Through Movement

Mentors close in age helps students feel understood and encourages participation.

5. Confidence Beyond Class

4. Relatability = Connection

5. Confidence Beyond Class

Confidence built in these classes extend to everyday life.

Classes

Format

10 one-hour classes per series
Less than 10 students per class
2-3 high schoolers dance teachers per class
Parents are encouraged to attend all sessions

Results From Pilot Program

When the students walked in for the first class (summer of 2025), the kids were shy about performing and kept nervously looking at the watching parents. Each class showed major improvement in the students' willingness to perform. By the end of the series, 4 out of the 5 students excitedly performed without needing a teacher to prompt them.

Move with confidence. Every step is yours.

About

Problem

Mission

Benefits

1. Small, Supportive Groups

3. Confidence Through Movement

2. Expression Over Perfection

2. Expression Over Perfection

3. Confidence Through Movement

2. Expression Over Perfection

3. Confidence Through Movement

3. Confidence Through Movement

3. Confidence Through Movement

4. Relatability = Connection

4. Relatability = Connection

3. Confidence Through Movement

5. Confidence Beyond Class

4. Relatability = Connection

5. Confidence Beyond Class

Classes

Format

Results From Pilot Program

Parent Testimonials

Contact Us!

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