Primary positions of feet in ballet for kids

The primary positions of feet in ballet form the foundation of ballet. Mastering these basic ballet positions is essential for young dancers, as they are the starting point for many ballet movements and techniques. In this guide, we’ll explore the five primary positions, each accompanied by our illustrations, to help your little dancers learn and perfect their skills.

The 5 Primary Positions of feet in Ballet

Basic Ballet Positions : hand drawn outline of kid's feet demonstrating the 1st primary position of feet in ballet - ANIMaD

First Position

In the 1st position, the heels are together, and the toes point outward, creating a straight line with the feet. This position helps dancers establish a sense of balance and alignment.

Second Position

For the 2nd position, the feet are placed wider apart, with the heels still on the same line and the toes turned outward. This position builds upon the stability learned in the first position.

Basic Ballet Positions : hand drawn outline of kid's feet demonstrating the 2nd primary position of feet in ballet - ANIMaD

Basic Ballet Positions : hand drawn outline of kid's feet demonstrating the 3rd primary position of feet in ballet - ANIMaD

Third Position

The 3rd position involves placing one foot in front of the other, with the heel of the front foot touching the arch of the back foot. This position introduces the concept of weight transfer and coordination.

Fourth Position

In the 4th position, the feet are similar to the third position, but with a small gap between them. This position helps dancers practice maintaining balance and preparing for turns and pirouettes!

Basic Ballet Positions : hand drawn outline of kid's feet demonstrating the 5th primary position of feet in ballet - ANIMaD

Fifth Position

The 5th position is the most challenging, where the feet are crossed tightly, with the heel of the front foot touching the toe of the back foot. This position is crucial for developing strength and precision.

Practical Tips

Encourage your child to practice the primary positions of feet in ballet regularly to build a strong foundation in ballet.
Use our posters as visual aids in your home or dance studio to reinforce correct technique.
Incorporate our flashcards into your practice sessions to help children visualize and memorize each position and practice at home

Visual Aids : Ballet Posters and Ballet Flashcards

Ballet Busy Book activities for kids : various printable activities picturing hand drawn diverse ballerinas like coloring, labyrinth, personalize cover and more are shown top view on a table. Made by ANIMaD

At AnimadPrintables, we offer several educational printable activities for kids about the primary positions of feet in ballet : ballet posters, ballet busy books, ballerina coloring pages, personalized posters of the basic ballet positions and ballet flashcards.
Take a peak below, or check out our full range of primary positions posters and flashcards on our Etsy shop, AnimadPrintables.

All our posters, coloring pages, busy books and coloring posters are instant download PDF files that come in various sizes (from letter size and A4 to 24×36 inches and A1).
All our ballet flashcards are 3-part printable PDF files and are also compatible with the Montessori Learning Method. Plus, they have an editable text-label so that you can translate them to other languages.
Also, all the illustrations are hand drawn by us!