More than 20 years after she started dancing as a young child, McChord spouse Danielle Baimbridge is still grateful for the qualities the activity instilled in her.

"I learned poise, confidence and stage presence," said Baimbridge, who PCSed to McChord eight months ago with her husband, an Airman in the 62nd Aircraft Maintenance Squadron.

Baimbridge developed such a love for dancing as a child she decided to pursue a career in it. That path led her to earn a bachelor's degree in music performance/jazz studies at the University of West Florida. Baimbridge's college experience opened the door for her to perform abroad with a musical show choir, and she later started working as a dance instructor at a ballet academy in her home state of Florida.

The 25-year-old is now focused on her next career endeavor, bringing dance to military families at McChord. Starting in August, Baimbridge will be teaching dance classes at the McChord Field Youth Center for children ages 3 to 16. The classes will teach basic techniques and feature elements of ballet, jazz and hip-hop performance dance.

"Dance is a great way for kids to make friends and learn how to express themselves through music," said Baimbridge, whose father is a former Navy SEAL. "I'm very excited to bring this opportunity to military families."

Being a military spouse and having been through her husband's deployment, Baimbridge is familiar with what spouses and their children go through. Dance, she said, is a great way for children to take their minds off any stress they might be feeling and just relax and have a good time.

"I really want them to have fun with it," she said. "Dance gave me confidence - and it always gave me an outlet. Not everybody is the best dancer, but you can still have fun and learn."

Baimbridge is also offering a free dance class for children to come try it out. The McChord Youth Center will host the free hip-hop dance class June 4. There will be two sessions:  one for children age 6 to 10 from 1 to 1:45 p.m. and a second for children age 11 to 16 from 2 to 2:45 p.m. Children are encouraged to wear comfortable shoes and attire.

Baimbridge is counting the days until she can start.

"This has been a dream of mine," she said. "Kids have such wonderful imaginations. They always keep me on my toes."

The dance classes starting in August are offered through SKIESUnlimited and those interested in enrolling can sign up through CYSS Services, located in Bldg. 100 on McChord Field.