What is a “body positive” culture?

At APA, we are committed to promoting a “body positive” culture—but what does that mean exactly, and why is it so important?

It means that we believe dance is for every BODY, no matter their size or shape.  It means that we are sure we can affect positive change to every child’s body image; that every student of ours can hear that their body can be strong, capable, healthy, and yes—beautiful.

All of our APA teachers are committed to:

• Using body positive exercises in every dance class
• Using appropriate dance terminology to describe and correct movements
• Encouraging each student to appreciate their body’s abilities, no matter their skill level

Our teachers will never comment on a student’s body—positive or negative—or draw attention to it in any way that is not dance-focused.  We request that you, as parents and guardians, help us on this mission by also pledging not to comment on your child’s body, and to avoid making comments about other people’s bodies as well (including your own!).  

When children hear comments about their bodies or someone else’s, it can plant a seed that makes them think their body isn’t “right” and that they need to change—and nothing could be further from the truth.

In providing an environment where every child learns to love their body, APA can help drive change in our culture.  We believe it takes a village to raise a child, and we are grateful to be a part of your village!