My daughter has PDD-NOS (mild autism) and was not clearly speaking when she started 3 yr old class last year The teachers were kind enough to work with her and were so patient and understanding. They took time to understand what she was trying to say - the ONLY dance school that would take the time with her. It is so comforting to have her included in the typically developing class and her time here has helped her more than I ever imagined it would. We love it here! It is such an asset to the Birmingham area!!
I'm on the board at a local community theatre, and I've seen three performances at CDF in the past two years. I was very favorably impressed. The kids not only showed talent in their performances, but they were also very friendly in meeting and greeting the audience. They also helped run concessions in the lobby before the shows and at intermission, which I imagine helps them realize how much work and dedication it takes to keep the arts afloat.
Because organizations like CDF support and train artists of the next generation, there's a bright future for the local arts in Birmingham.
Bailey recently turned 6 yrs old and is atteding The Dance Foundation on Scholarship. She has been battling an Autoimmune Disorder called Juveile Idiopathic Arthritis and Uveitis (when it affected her eyes). This dance is the Firstreal activity she has been involved in and she absolutely Loves it!
For the Past 3 & 1/2 years, she has been taking some pretty strong medicines & IV Treatments, just to slow the progression of the disease and allow her to move, walk, dance & SEE, just like other children. Bailey seems to have a smile on her face no matter what she goes through, but nothing can compare to the Smile that she has when she is at Dance Class!
The first day of class, I had to hold back my tears as I saw Bailey running & dancing just like the other children! She had this Huge smile on her face that just Lit her entire Face up! What happiness in spite of all the sadness she endures.
Her instructor is wonderful! It amazes me how she teaches the children to move & express themselves through dance! It is unlike anything I've seen before!
We are so Thankful to the Sponsors! Without help, we would not be able to afford Bailey this opportunity. Her medical bills are very high, so this activity would not be possible without the sponsors. To give a child like Bailey who suffers daily the opportunity to Move & stretch her joints in a fun creative way & not just her Physical therapy stretching, is wonderful.
We walk,donate,volunteer & speakout whenever we can for organizations that support & are looking for a cure for this horrible disease, so I know that raising funds can be difficult. Please understand that our Hearts are SO Thankful to you all for helping Bailey attend Dance!
Baileys Blog:
www.thewarrens-baileysmama.blogspot.com
http://www.youtube.com/user/BaileysmamaJRA#p/u/8/EVr9dkGq650
I love how CDF just keeps on keeping on! They are a venerable institution in an under-served, historic neighborhood and have managed to expand their services beyond just children, as the name may imply. CDF deserves more support as they provide a vital link between the artistic community and the public through dance.