MOVE Inclusive Dance

Hello, Franklin and compassionate communities across Tennessee! If you're seeking a dance studio that truly believes in the transformative power of movement for *everyone*, regardless of their ability level, then MOVE Inclusive Dance is a place you absolutely need to know. Located right here in Franklin, this remarkable studio is dedicated to empowering individuals with diverse needs to experience the joy of dance, all while developing crucial life skills in a wonderfully supportive and inviting environment. It’s a beacon of inclusion, transforming lives through the rhythm and expression of dance.

MOVE Inclusive Dance was founded from a deeply personal insight. Lauren Morris, the founder and executive director, grew up dancing and noticed a significant lack of inclusive spaces for dancers with disabilities. Remembering a conversation with her mother from when she was 13, where she wondered why there weren't dance studios for people with disabilities, Lauren decided to create that space herself. In 2018, what started as a small, week-long summer dance camp for individuals with Down syndrome quickly blossomed into a substantial year-round program, expanding to a second studio in Franklin in 2022. This organic growth is a testament to the vital need and profound impact of their mission.

The core mission of MOVE Inclusive Dance is clear and inspiring: "We are an inclusive dance studio that empowers individuals of all ability levels to learn life skills through dance. We use the power of movement and music to transform our students' lives while providing a nurturing, inviting community for all." This mission is not just a statement; it's evident in every aspect of their operation. Parents speak passionately about how their children, including those with autism, have found a place where they are "accepted, loved and appreciated," becoming "excited to go to class and see his teachers and friends." This dedication to fostering an environment where every student feels seen and celebrated is what truly sets MOVE Inclusive Dance apart.

Beyond the dance steps, MOVE Inclusive Dance focuses on holistic development. Students learn to be better communicators, problem-solvers, and creative thinkers. They gain increased respect and compassion, not just for others, but for themselves. The positive impact extends beyond the studio walls, translating into everyday life. For any Tennessee family looking for a truly transformative and inclusive dance experience, where dance is a vehicle for growth, confidence, and community, MOVE Inclusive Dance offers an invaluable opportunity.

MOVE Inclusive Dance's Franklin studio is located at 1113 Murfreesboro Rd #404, Franklin, TN 37064, USA. This accessible address places the studio in a convenient area of Franklin, making it easily reachable for families throughout Williamson County and the broader Middle Tennessee region. Situated on Murfreesboro Road, a main thoroughfare, the studio benefits from good visibility and straightforward navigation.

The choice of location is mindful, aiming to serve individuals effectively. While specific details about parking or interior adaptive features are not extensively detailed, their commitment to accessibility is inherent in their inclusive mission. They conduct "needs assessments" prior to a student's first class and provide "many adaptive movements, visual cues, sensory adjustments, and more." This proactive approach ensures that the physical space and the class environment are tailored to support diverse abilities. The studio also offers virtual class attendance and an online library of videos, further enhancing accessibility for those who might face geographical or mobility challenges, making dance truly available to "individuals of all ability levels" across Tennessee and beyond.

• Inclusive Dance Classes: Designed for individuals of all ability levels, including those with disabilities, empowering them to learn life skills through dance.
• Creative Movement: Classes for exploring movement and expression, building confidence and supporting social development.
• Groovy Moves: Fun, high-energy classes designed to allow students to let loose and enjoy movement.
• Ballet & Lyrical: Classes that combine the artistry and precise steps of ballet with expressive lyrical movements.
• Musical Theater: Focuses on combining dance, voice, and acting for aspiring performers.
• Latin Dance: Engaging classes to connect to Latin rhythms, suitable for all ages and ability levels, often offered for free.
• Adaptive Movements: Teachers provide individualized adaptations, visual cues, and sensory adjustments to tailor lessons to each student's needs.
• Small Group Classes: Group classes are kept small (capacity of 10 students, usually averaging 5) to ensure personalized attention and a familiar atmosphere.
• "Dance Buddies": Some classes may offer "dance buddies" who partner with students benefiting from more hands-on help, fostering consistent bonding and support.
• Virtual Class Attendance: Online classes are available for students to participate from any physical location.
• Online Video Library: A library of videos for students to follow along at their convenience.
• Community Outreach Programs: MOVE Inclusive Dance brings classes to other underserved communities in the Nashville area.
• Performance Opportunities: Students have opportunities to perform, including annual recitals (e.g., at Turner Theater).

• Truly Inclusive Model: Specifically designed to empower individuals of all ability levels, including those with disabilities, making dance accessible to a population often underserved.
• Holistic Skill Development: Focuses on teaching vital life skills beyond dance technique, such as communication, problem-solving, creative thinking, and confidence.
• Nurturing and Inviting Community: Consistently praised for fostering a supportive, loving, and accepting environment where students feel safe and appreciated.
• Experienced and Passionate Leadership: Founded by Lauren Morris and program directed by Megan Jayroe (who has a masters in special education), ensuring expertise in both dance and adaptive education.
• Small Class Sizes: Group classes are kept intentionally small (around 5 students, maximum 10) to allow for individualized attention and tailored instruction.
• Personalized Adaptations: Provides adaptive movements, visual cues, and sensory adjustments based on individual needs assessments for each student.
• "Dance Buddy" Program: Offers consistent one-on-one support and bonding for students who benefit from partnered assistance.
• Hybrid Learning Options: Offers both in-person and virtual classes, along with an online video library, increasing accessibility and flexibility for students.
• Community Impact and Recognition: Has gained support from local and national foundations, featured by BuzzFeed, and holds community outreach programs.
• Emphasis on Joy: The core mission revolves around transforming lives through the "power of movement and music," bringing immense joy to students and families.

Address: 1113 Murfreesboro Rd #404, Franklin, TN 37064, USA

Phone: (615) 582-4993

Mobile Phone: +1 615-582-4993

For families across Franklin, Tennessee, and indeed the broader Middle Tennessee region, MOVE Inclusive Dance is an exceptionally suitable and profoundly impactful local resource. Its suitability for our community stems from its groundbreaking and compassionate approach to dance education. Firstly, in a world where inclusive opportunities are highly valued, MOVE Inclusive Dance stands out as a pioneering "inclusive dance studio that empowers individuals of all ability levels." This means that children and adults with disabilities, who might typically face barriers to participation in mainstream dance programs, find a welcoming, adaptive, and highly effective environment here. This dedication to truly serving all members of our community is a tremendous asset.

Secondly, the studio's mission extends far beyond just teaching dance steps. It explicitly focuses on helping students "learn life skills through dance," transforming lives through the power of movement and music. Parents rave about the holistic growth their children experience, becoming better communicators, problem-solvers, and more confident individuals. This emphasis on practical, real-world skills, delivered within a fun and engaging format, makes it an invaluable developmental opportunity for many families. The use of "adaptive movements, visual cues, sensory adjustments," and "dance buddies" highlights their deep understanding and commitment to individualized support.

Furthermore, the "nurturing, inviting community" fostered at MOVE Inclusive Dance is a key reason for its local appeal. Testimonials consistently speak of a place where individuals are "accepted, loved and appreciated," and where lasting friendships are built. This sense of belonging is vital for the well-being and confidence of all participants, especially those who may have felt marginalized elsewhere. In Tennessee, where community and support are highly valued, MOVE Inclusive Dance embodies these principles perfectly.

Finally, the convenient Franklin location on Murfreesboro Road makes the studio easily accessible for many local families, and the availability of virtual classes further expands its reach, ensuring that quality inclusive dance education is available to even more Tennessee residents. For any family in our state seeking a dance experience that truly transforms lives, builds confidence, and fosters a loving community for individuals of all abilities, MOVE Inclusive Dance is an unparalleled and deeply cherished local treasure.

MOVE Inclusive Dance

1113 Murfreesboro Rd #404, Franklin, TN 37064, USA