Music & Movement
Playful activities build rhythm, coordination, balance, and age-appropriate Irish dance skills.
Try a Free ClassABOUT McGOVERN MINI JIGS
Small dancers.
Big beginnings.
A joyful, encouraging first step into Irish dance—created especially for children ages 2–8.
- Beginner friendly
- Age-appropriate learning
- Three welcoming locations
WHERE LITTLE DANCERS BEGIN
A first class experience that feels like it was made for them.
McGovern Mini Jigs is often a child’s very first class experience, and we take that seriously. Our goal is to create a place where children feel safe, encouraged, and excited to learn.
Through music, movement, imagination, and play, dancers build coordination, rhythm, balance, listening skills, and social confidence—without pressure to move faster than they are ready.
MORE THAN FIRST STEPS
What little dancers discover here.
Growing skills, confidence, and friendships—one joyful class at a time.
Growing Confidence
Every tiny victory is celebrated so children feel proud, brave, and ready to try again.
Friendship & Fun
Dancers practice listening, taking turns, following directions, and making new friends.
DESIGNED FOR YOUNG CHILDREN
Gentle structure. Plenty of imagination.
Your dancer may be hopping, skipping, dancing under a parachute, practicing a first jig step, or playing movement games that build strength without feeling like work.
Whether your child dreams of a stage or simply loves to dance around the living room, Mini Jigs gives them a happy place to begin.
Experience an Open House →MEET THE TEAM
Encouraging teachers who understand little dancers.
Patient instruction, positive reinforcement, and a warm welcome in every class.
Owner / Director
Shelagh McGovern, TMCRN
Shelagh loves helping young dancers take their first Irish dance steps with encouragement, smiles, and a love of music and movement.
Associate Instructor
Jessica Van Deursen
Jessica brings energy, patience, and creativity while helping little dancers feel comfortable, confident, and excited to learn.
Associate Instructor
Athena Croker
Athena creates a positive space where dancers feel encouraged, supported, and proud of every new skill they try.
Associate Instructor
Susan Millsaps
Susan’s warm approach helps every child feel welcome, comfortable, and successful in class.
Associate Instructor
Judi Risler
Judi loves introducing new dancers to Irish dance while helping them build friendships, confidence, and joy in movement.
ROOM TO GROW
From a first class to their next adventure.
Mini Jigs builds the foundation young dancers need to feel comfortable in the studio, excited to learn, and ready for beginner Irish dance when the time is right.
- 1Begin with play
Music, movement, imagination, and plenty of smiles.
- 2Build independence
Confidence, listening skills, friendships, and first steps.
- 3Grow into beginner dance
A smooth, encouraging transition when your dancer is ready.
WHY FAMILIES CHOOSE MINI JIGS
A place parents can feel good about.
♥ Experienced instructors
♥ Age-appropriate curriculum
♥ Confidence-building activities
♥ Welcoming community
♥ Fun performances & events
♥ A clear path to keep growing
PARENT QUESTIONS
It is easy to get started.
Here are the questions families ask us most before their first visit.
What ages are Mini Jigs classes for?
Our programs welcome dancers ages 2–8, with each class tailored to its age group and developmental stage.
Does my child need dance experience?
Not at all. Most Mini Jigs are trying dance for the first time, and complete beginners are always welcome.
Can parents watch class?
We understand that young dancers may feel more comfortable with a parent nearby, especially at the beginning. Watching arrangements may vary by class and location.
What should my child wear?
Comfortable clothes that allow movement are perfect. No special shoes or dance attire are needed for an Open House or trial class.
COME MEET US
Let their first step be a happy one.
Join an upcoming Open House and discover how much fun a first Irish dance class can be.