In other words, we want to help you make room for learning and growth when it comes to developing a safer and healthier dance environment that protects kids from harm and empowers them with confidence.
EDUCATION or CERTIFICATION
YPAD™ Education options include resources, webinars, courses, and microlearnings. They are open to the entire dance community! Education opportunities do not require additional steps, such as knowledge checks, third-party training, or documentation, nor do they lead to certification.
YPAD™ Certification options include coursework for Individuals, Studios, and Events. Certification begins with an application process. Participants complete additional steps alongside their coursework, including background checks, CPR/first aid certification, Darkness to Light’s Stewards of Children® training, a live YPAD™ seminar on artistic integrity, a safeguarding pledge, and a commitment to YPAD™’s 5-tier accountability model. Additional requirements apply to studio owners and event owners, such as proof of insurance, emergency action planning, and certification in Youth Mental Health First Aid.
Erika Hogan, YPAD™ Certified Individual
"I started with YPAD™ Education, but quickly wanted to become YPAD™ Certified. I now work with the association as a coach to help others to bring best practices to their classrooms. Next up ... Certifying my studio!"
New applications for 2024-25 certification open July 1, 2024!
Chicago Tap Theatre
"Chicago Tap Theatre believes that dance students deserve well-trained teachers who understand dance education is more than steps. YPAD™ is focused on the well-being of kids and a sustainable, safe future for dance. Chicago Tap Theatre is proud to stand with them in believing that the dance field is ready to take the next step and that a common set of standards is a great place to start!"
Dance Teacher, NJ
“As a dancer and dance teacher, I’ve taken a lot of training over the years for my role at the studio. Out of everything I've learned, I have to say that the information I have received from YPAD™ Certification has been the most important. Because of what I've learned through YPAD™, I am confident I am making the best choices for my students."
Studio Owner, Calgary
"Youth Protection Association for Dance™ is the leading industry education that all studio owners need to invest in. One of my greatest sources of pride as a studio owner is hearing my studio families talk about their pride in the distinction of our YPAD™ ethos, as it shows that it absolutely matters and forever will."
guiDANCE Experience
“YPAD™ has brought so much value into the dance industry by helping kids stay safe, encouraging community, self-accountability, and awareness. YPAD™ gives anyone working in the dance industry clear priorities to develop this next generation of dancers. Through educational opportunities, YPAD™ is leading the way for the betterment of all involved in the dance industry. ”
Thomas Gus Almonroeder, PT, DPT, PhD · Trine University
YPAD™ is proud to work with the following organizations
YPAD™ is a proud member of IADMS
YPAD™ educator Misty Lown is a co-author of a pilot study on ballet safety published in the Journal of Dance Medicine & Science.
YPAD™ has two more research projects in progress for 2023-24: one with a researcher from Mayo Health and one with Trine University.
YPAD™ is based in the United States. Though the education presented here is built upon U.S. standards, YPAD™ recognizes that there may be different standards in other cultures and countries across the globe. It is important to refer to the governance of your home country, state, province, or city to ensure consistent, legal compliance with the appropriate local regulations.
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