'Moppets in Motion' Brings Dance into Schools

Maureen Dicker of Marlboro owned her own dance studio for 20 years, and her teaching experience extends beyond that. Now, she is taking her skills into classrooms in the area, hoping to spark an interest in the younger generation.

Dicker owned her own studios in Sayreville in Old Bridge, from 1980 to 1999. When her own children entered middle school and high school, Dicker sold the school to focus on family. But, she never stopped teaching.

The Woodbridge Township native was always interested in dance, and was one of the first to graduate Rutgers University with a degree in dance. Dicker has a speciality in tap, and studied under both Gregory Hines and Savion Glover.

Dicker said she always knew she wanted to teach, she said. "I found [tap] was the hardest to find a teacher for."

13 years after selling her studios, Dicker continues to teach dance and is the director of an accredited daycare. She said she sees an opportunity in local pre-schools for dance teachers.

Enrolling in a dance school is a full-time commitment for many parents, especially with young children in pre-school. In comes 'Moppets in Motion.'

"It's a professional dance experience for their kids, we're making it convenient."

Dicker teaches dance during pre-school hours, and so far she has been invited to schools such as Kindercare, Bright Horizons and Children of America. She offers a free trial for any school, and works to accomodate the class gender and age demographics by offering a range of dance, such as ballet and hip-hop.

"Dance classes are hard for parents without time," Dicker said, fondly remembering how much of a commitment any after-school activity is with kids.

"Moppets in Motion" is in the beginning stages, but Dicker is enjoying teaching young children.

"Pre-schoolers have complete abandon and freedom, they find joy in movement," she said. "I love teaching kids, I've wanted to do this since I was 5."

The program is tailored for each school, but can include creative movement, ballet and tap, and jazz and hip-hop. Programs are for children ages 2 to 6.

Parents also have the option of allowing children into an end-of-the-year recital, allowing both children and parents to experience a full-blown dance school experience.

Dicker also teaches at in Colts Neck and the  in Marlboro, both owned by former students of hers.