3 stars for our limited trial experience (Would've preferred to not mark any but Yelp requires star…read morerating in order to post a comment). We only attended one Mini K-pop trial class and did not enroll, but I'm sharing our experience to help families decide whether this studio may be a good fit.
TLDR version:
Based on our trial, the studio told us it did not have the capacity or specialized experience to support my child's ASD-related needs. It may be a better fit for children who can participate independently, follow a structured class format, and are interested in more serious dance training rather than a casual recreational class.
Long version:
Not leaving a star rating because we only attended one trial Mini K-pop class and were not enrolled clients. I'm sharing our experience to help families assess whether the studio may be a good fit for their child.
Before the trial, I emailed the owner to ask whether the class might work for my child, who is on the autism spectrum. He responded promptly and was transparent that the instructors did not have specialized experience or the capacity to provide the level of support my child may need. He still invited us to try a class so both sides could determine whether it was a fit.
I accidentally arrived on the wrong week, but the owner was understanding and allowed us to participate. The instructor's teaching style was structured, direct, constructive, and firm while remaining respectful. My child attended with an ABA therapist, who provided reminders, redirection, and support throughout the class.
After observing, the owner told me that the studio would not be able to accommodate my child's needs in its regular class environment. He also shared that the level of support required during class could be distracting for the other students. I understand his perspective and appreciate that he was direct rather than allowing us to enroll in a program that was not set up for my child's needs. Still, it stung as a parent. When you see your child making progress at school and in social settings, it is hard to be reminded that some environments may still not be accessible or appropriate for them.
During the class, the other children appeared to notice that my child needed more support and was not keeping pace. Our therapist later told me that some children had asked questions among themselves about why my child was different. They are young children, and I do not blame them, the instructor, or the studio. But it was still a difficult moment for me as a parent.
There were also a couple of practical reasons the program was probably not the best fit for us:
(1) I was looking for a one-day-per-week recreational class, while the front desk staff explained that the program generally expects a two-day weekly commitment so students can practice and retain what they learn. That expectation was not completely clear to me from the website.
(2) The class appeared best suited to children who can follow directions independently and who are ready for a more structured, skill-focused dance environment. I was looking for a lower-pressure recreational activity focused more on enjoyment and socialization.
Overall, it was not the right fit for our family or the studio's current program structure. Families seeking a structured dance program may have a different experience. Parents of children who need individualized behavioral, communication, or therapeutic support may want to ask in advance about the studio's ability to provide accommodations. The communication style also felt fairly direct and "tough love," which may be worth considering for children who respond better to a gentler approach.
