About McGovern Mini Jigs

A joyful first step into Irish dance for ages 2–5.

McGovern Mini Jigs is often a child’s very first class experience — and we take that seriously. Our goal is to create a space where children feel safe, encouraged, and excited to learn.

As dancers grow, they build the skills and confidence to move into our beginner Irish dance programs, perform in community events, and continue their journey with McGovern Irish Dance.

Through music, movement, imagination, and play, our Mini Jigs classes help children develop coordination, rhythm, balance, listening skills, and social confidence — all while having fun and making new friends.

McGovern Mini Jigs preschool Irish dance class
✨ Tiny dancers build big confidence through music, movement, imagination, and play.
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Music & Movement

Dancers explore rhythm, coordination, balance, and basic Irish dance movement in a playful, age-appropriate way.

Confidence Building

Every tiny victory is celebrated, helping children feel proud, brave, and excited to try new things.

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Friendship & Fun

Classes help little dancers practice listening, taking turns, following directions, and making new friends.

Designed especially for preschoolers.

Every McGovern Mini Jigs class blends gentle structure with creativity and encouragement. Our dancers may be hopping, skipping, dancing under parachutes, practicing their first jig steps, or playing movement games that help them grow stronger without even realizing they are learning.

We believe the early years should feel magical. Whether your child dreams of performing on stage one day or simply loves to twirl around the living room, Mini Jigs is the perfect place to begin.

Ready to Try a Class?

We would love to welcome your little dancer to McGovern Mini Jigs. Come see how much fun Irish dance can be!

Book a Free Class

Meet Our Amazing Teachers

McGovern Mini Jigs is often a child’s very first class experience — and we take that seriously. Our teachers create a fun, welcoming environment where little dancers can build confidence, make friends, and discover the joy of movement through Irish dance.

Shelagh McGovern

Shelagh McGovern, TMCRN

Owner / Director

Shelagh loves helping young dancers take their very first Irish dance steps with encouragement, smiles, and a love of movement and music.

Jessica Van Deursen

Jessica Van Deursen

Associate Instructor

Jessica brings energy, patience, and creativity to class while helping little dancers feel comfortable, confident, and excited to learn.

Athena Croker

Athena Croker

Associate Instructor

Athena creates a positive learning space where dancers feel encouraged, supported, and proud of every new skill they try.

Susan Millsaps

Susan Millsaps

Associate Instructor

Susan’s warm and encouraging approach helps every child feel welcome, comfortable, and successful in class.

Judi Risler

Judi Risler

Associate Instructor

Judi loves introducing new dancers to Irish dance while helping them build friendships, confidence, and joy in movement.

See How Mini Jigs Grow

See How Mini Jigs Grow

Our Mini Jigs program helps little dancers grow step by step — from their very first class to the moment they are ready for beginner Irish dance.

💗 Build confidence
☘️ Learn rhythm and coordination
🎵 Move to Irish music
🌟 Develop independence
👯 Make friends and have fun
✨ Grow into the next level

➡️ Next Step: New Beginners

By the time dancers move into New Beginners, they already feel comfortable in the studio, excited to learn, and confident taking class independently.

Mini Jigs creates a smooth transition into Irish dance classes by building the foundation skills every young dancer needs for future success.

Why Parents Love McGovern Mini Jigs

💗 Small Class Sizes
💗 Experienced Instructors
💗 Age-Appropriate Curriculum
💗 Confidence Building Activities
💗 Fun Performances & Events
💗 Welcoming Community

Frequently Asked Questions

What ages are Mini Jigs classes for?

Our Mini Jigs program is designed for dancers ages 2–5, with classes tailored to each age group’s developmental needs.

Does my child need dance experience?

Not at all! Most of our dancers are trying dance class for the very first time. We welcome complete beginners.

Can parents watch class?

Yes. We know young dancers often feel more comfortable knowing a parent is nearby, especially during their first few classes.

What should my child wear?

Comfortable clothes that allow movement are perfect. No special dance attire is required for a trial class.

Ready to Try a Class?

McGovern Mini Jigs is a joyful first step into Irish dance. We’d love to welcome your family, meet your little dancer, and help them experience the fun, confidence, and excitement of class.

Reserve Your Free Class