10+ Best Ballerina Books for 6-Year-Olds w/ Exercises (2024)

Are you on the hunt for the perfect twirl-worthy read for your little dancer? Look no further! Our curated selection of Ballerina Books for 6-Year-Olds is packed with enchanting stories that capture the magic of ballet. Whether your child is a budding ballerina or just loves a good story with graceful illustrations, these books are sure to inspire and delight. Keep reading to discover our favorite picks that will keep those little toes pointed in excitement!

Fun Ballerina Books for 6-Year-Olds

• Tallulah’s Tutu by Marilyn Singer, illustrated by Alexandra Boiger
  • Genre(s): Children's Fiction, Dance
  • Synopsis: Tallulah is determined to earn a tutu through her ballet classes, but she learns that it takes more than desire; it takes hard work and commitment.
  • Why we recommend this book: This story is not only fun to read but also imparts valuable lessons about patience and perseverance, which are great for young readers.
  • Perfect for: Young dancers and any child learning about the rewards of dedication and hard work.

• Miss Lina's Ballerinas by Grace Maccarone, illustrated by Christine Davenier
  • Genre(s): Children's Fiction, Rhyming Book
  • Synopsis: This charming book follows Miss Lina's eight ballerinas as they learn to dance in harmony and navigate the changes when a new girl joins their class.
  • Why we recommend this book: The rhyming text makes it a delightful read-aloud, and it teaches lessons about teamwork and adapting to new situations.
  • Perfect for: Children who enjoy rhythmic, lyrical stories and learning about friendship and cooperation.

• Angelina Ballerina by Katharine Holabird, illustrated by Helen Craig
  • Genre(s): Children's Fiction, Dance
  • Synopsis: Angelina loves to dance and dreams of becoming a prima ballerina. Despite various challenges, she works hard to pursue her dreams.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's an inspiring story that encourages young readers to follow their dreams and never give up, no matter the obstacles.
  • Perfect for: Aspiring young dancers and any child with big dreams.

• Dogs Don't Do Ballet by Anna Kemp, illustrated by Sara Ogilvie
  • Genre(s): Children's Fiction, Humor
  • Synopsis: Biff is not like ordinary dogs. He doesn't do dog stuff like scratching his fleas or drinking out of the toilet. Instead, Biff thinks he is a ballerina!
  • Why we recommend this book: This humorous and heartwarming story challenges traditional roles and stereotypes, encouraging individuality and self-expression.
  • Perfect for: Kids who love animals and laughter, and those learning to embrace their unique traits.

• Ballerino Nate by Kimberly Brubaker Bradley, illustrated by R.W. Alley
  • Genre(s): Children's Fiction, Dance
  • Synopsis: Nate loves dancing and dreams of becoming a ballet dancer, but he faces teasing from his older brother who says that ballet is just for girls.
  • Why we recommend this book: It tackles gender stereotypes in a sensitive way, promoting the message that anyone can pursue their passion, regardless of gender.
  • Perfect for: Children dealing with peer pressure and those interested in breaking gender norms.

Educational Ballerina Books for 6-Year-Olds

• Ella Bella Ballerina and Cinderella by James Mayhew
  • Genre(s): Children's Fiction, Fairy Tale, Dance
  • Synopsis: Ella Bella attends Madame Rosa’s ballet class and finds herself dancing into the story of Cinderella with the help of the magical music box.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Reading comprehension, understanding of classic fairy tales, imagination and creativity
  • Why we recommend this book: It creatively combines the art of ballet with a beloved fairy tale, offering a unique and engaging reading experience.
  • Perfect for: Young readers who enjoy fairy tales and imaginative stories.

• Brontorina by James Howe, illustrated by Randy Cecil
  • Genre(s): Children's Fiction, Inspirational
  • Synopsis: Brontorina has a dream of becoming a ballerina, but she is much larger than a typical dancer—and she doesn't even have ballet shoes that can fit! Her determination leads to unexpected changes at Madame Lucille’s dance studio.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Self-acceptance, perseverance, and inclusivity
  • Why we recommend this book: It teaches children that you can achieve your dreams regardless of the obstacles, promoting inclusivity and determination.
  • Perfect for: Kids who feel different or out of place and those who are learning to embrace and celebrate diversity.

• Dance is for Everyone by Andrea Zuill
  • Genre(s): Children's Fiction, Humor
  • Synopsis: An alligator joins a ballet class and despite the obvious challenges, the class works to integrate her into their routines.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Teamwork, problem-solving, adaptability
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a funny and heartwarming story that highlights the importance of inclusion and teamwork in overcoming challenges.
  • Perfect for: Children learning about teamwork and those who enjoy humorous stories.

• Vampirina Ballerina by Anne Marie Pace, illustrated by LeUyen Pham
  • Genre(s): Children's Fiction, Fantasy, Dance
  • Synopsis: A young vampire girl wants to become a ballerina and learns that pursuing your dreams isn't always easy, especially when you're a vampire and prone to turning into a bat.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Determination, coping with being different, following dreams
  • Why we recommend this book: It combines elements of fantasy with real-life challenges, making it both entertaining and relatable.
  • Perfect for: Young readers who enjoy spooky themes mixed with charming stories.

Challenging Ballerina Books for 6-Year-Olds

• The Bear and the Ballet by David Annand
  • Genre(s): Children's Fiction, Fantasy
  • Synopsis: A bear stumbles into a ballet theater and becomes enchanted with the art of dance, aspiring to become a ballerina despite the obvious challenges.
  • Why this book is challenging: The narrative incorporates sophisticated themes of acceptance and the pursuit of unlikely dreams, which can provoke thoughtful discussions with young readers.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a touching story that encourages children to dream big and embrace inclusivity, showing that passion and dedication matter more than fitting the traditional mold.
  • Perfect for: Young readers who love stories about overcoming obstacles and those interested in the arts.

• Ballet Shoes by Noel Streatfeild, illustrated by Diane Goode
  • Genre(s): Children's Fiction, Classic
  • Synopsis: This classic tale follows the lives of three orphaned girls, Pauline, Petrova, and Posy, who are adopted by an eccentric explorer and enroll in a ballet school to train professionally.
  • Why this book is challenging: It features complex character development and a more intricate plot than typical children's books, providing a richer reading experience.
  • Why we recommend this book: It offers a glimpse into the performing arts world while teaching valuable lessons about hard work, resilience, and the importance of family.
  • Perfect for: Advanced young readers who enjoy in-depth stories and those fascinated by the performing arts.

• The Only Boy in Ballet Class by Denise Gruska, illustrated by Amy Wummer
  • Genre(s): Children's Fiction, Realistic Fiction
  • Synopsis: Tucker loves to dance more than anything, but he struggles with being the only boy in his ballet class and the teasing he faces from others.
  • Why this book is challenging: It addresses complex issues of gender stereotypes and social acceptance, challenging young readers to think critically about these themes.
  • Why we recommend this book: This book promotes diversity and perseverance, encouraging boys who love dance to embrace their passion despite societal expectations.
  • Perfect for: Boys who dance or any child who feels different and is trying to find their place in the world.

• Lili at Ballet by Rachel Isadora
  • Genre(s): Children's Fiction, Dance
  • Synopsis: Lili loves ballet and this book follows her experiences and growth as a ballet student, from classes to rehearsals and finally, a performance.
  • Why this book is challenging: The detailed depiction of the discipline required in ballet and the use of ballet terminology provide a more immersive and educational read.
  • Why we recommend this book: It realistically portrays the life of a young ballet student, offering insight into the dedication required in the art form and inspiring diligence and commitment.
  • Perfect for: Aspiring young dancers and readers interested in a realistic view of ballet training.

• A Dance of Sisters by Tracey Porter
  • Genre(s): Children's Fiction, Drama
  • Synopsis: Delia and Pearl are sisters who attend the same ballet school but have very different experiences and face various personal challenges.
  • Why this book is challenging: The narrative delves into deeper emotional and familial issues, providing a complex and layered story that can help develop empathy and understanding.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a poignant tale that explores the bonds of sisterhood and the personal journeys of young dancers, offering a compelling and emotionally rich experience.
  • Perfect for: Readers who appreciate stories about family dynamics and personal growth, as well as those interested in dance.

Exercises to Develop a Good Reading Habit

Hey there! If you're looking to encourage a love of reading in your little one, especially if they adore all things ballet, I've got some fun reading exercises tailored just for 6-year-olds. These activities are designed not only to keep them engaged but also to develop their reading habits early on. Let's dive in!

• Create a Ballet Reading Corner
  • What it is: Set up a special place dedicated to reading ballet-themed books.
  • How it helps: Makes reading a special and enjoyable activity.
  • Tips: Decorate the corner with ballet posters and a comfy seat.

• Ballet Book Club
  • What it is: Start a weekly book club where your child and their friends read and discuss a ballet book.
  • How it helps: Encourages social interaction and verbal expression.
  • Tips: Keep the discussions light and fun; perhaps they can dress up as their favorite characters!

• Story Predictions
  • What it is: Before reading a new ballet book, ask your child what they think will happen based on the cover and title.
  • How it helps: Enhances imagination and anticipatory skills.
  • Tips: Discuss their predictions after reading to see what was right and what surprised them.

• Act Out the Story
  • What it is: Encourage your child to act out scenes from their favorite ballet storybooks.
  • How it helps: Helps with comprehension and memory.
  • Tips: Use simple props or costumes for more fun and engagement.

• Reading Rewards Chart
  • What it is: Create a chart that tracks the books your child reads, offering small rewards for milestones.
  • How it helps: Motivates continued reading and goal setting.
  • Tips: Rewards can be simple, like choosing the next book, a sticker, or an extra bedtime story.

• Picture Walk
  • What it is: Go through the pictures in a ballet book before reading, making up stories about what might be happening.
  • How it helps: Builds narrative skills and sets a purpose for reading.
  • Tips: Ask open-ended questions to encourage detailed responses.

Incorporating these fun and simple exercises into your child's reading routine can make a huge difference in how they view and enjoy books. Not only will they have a blast diving into the world of ballet through stories, but they'll also be building strong reading habits that will benefit them for years to come. Happy reading!