By: Melissa Clark

In the bustling South Bay region of California, Melinda Fornero—also known by her students as “Miss Melinda”—is the founder of Music N’ Motion (MNM), a company that is transforming early childhood dance education. 

With over two decades of experience, Melinda’s innovative programs have become a cornerstone in numerous school districts. 

Now, she is focusing her efforts on expanding her reach within her local community, including Long Beach Unified, Los Alamitos and Lakewood, bringing the joy and benefits of dance to more schools and young learners.

A Legacy of Dance and Determination

Melinda’s journey in dance began at 14, driven by a passion for movement and creativity. Despite starting later than many of her peers, she pursued her dream with relentless determination. 

This passion led to the launch of Music N’ Motion in 2000, where she developed a preschool dance curriculum aligned with California Physical Education Standards and the Santa Monica Visual and Performing Arts (VAPA) curriculum. 

Her programs have been embraced by various school districts, including Santa Monica Malibu Unified, Redondo Beach Unified, and Torrance Unified, as well as numerous private preschools across the South Bay.

Innovative and Comprehensive Curriculum

Melinda’s classes at MNM raise the bar for children’s educational, physical, and artistic development. Her dance classes combine elements of Pop, Jazz, Ballet, and Broadway into one fun-filled experience. The curriculum is designed to engage young minds and bodies, promoting learning, creativity, and self-expression through dance.

Classes incorporate dance vocabulary, easy-to-learn choreography, rhythm and counting, music accompaniment, and more. The structured program is an excellent opportunity for children to develop musicality, teamwork, confidence, and self-esteem. 

Additionally, MNM offers unique programs like “Hooping for Health,” which combines hula hooping with dance to create a dynamic and engaging experience.

As mandated by the State of California Department of Social Services, all Music ‘N Motion instructors have completed their 12 Early Childhood Education units.

Program Highlights

Mama Let’s Warm Up

• Stinky Toes: Point and flex exercises to stretch feet, ankles, and toes.
• Chop Your Mountains: Leg stretches.
• Hot Lava: Upper body side stretches.

Mama Let’s Dance

• Week 1: 1st & 2nd Position Arms, 1st Position Feet, Relevé, and Ballet Run.
• Week 2: Tendu, Spring Points, and Chassé.
• Week 3: Footwork, Échappé, and Chassé with Footwork.
• Week 4: Parallel Jumps, Marching, and Curtsy/Bow.

Mama Watch Me Dance

• Weeks 5-10: Comprehensive breakdown of a choreographed dance routine, culminating in a final performance for family and friends.

Hooping for Health

• Children learn technical moves and tricks with the hoop, incorporating rhythm and expressive movement to create an exciting new dance form. The program emphasizes physical fitness, coordination, and creativity.

Supporting Local School Districts

Melinda’s programs are specifically designed to meet the needs of local school districts, providing valuable benefits for early childhood education. With California funding for the arts, her curriculum aligns perfectly with the state’s physical education standards. Melinda’s approach emphasizes fun, creativity, and the flourishing of children’s imaginations, making her programs an excellent fit for schools in the South Bay area.

Inspiring a Community

Melinda’s story is a powerful example of resilience and passion. At 66, she continues to inspire others to pursue their dreams, regardless of age.

“Dance is more than movement; it’s a language that speaks to the soul. I’m passionate about my work because I see how dance transforms children’s lives, building their confidence, creativity, and joy. Every child deserves the chance to experience this magic, and I’m dedicated to making it accessible to all.”

Melinda Fornero’s work with Music N’ Motion exemplifies the transformative power of dance in early childhood education. Her innovative programs have made a significant impact in Southern California, and she is now focusing on expanding her reach within her local community. 

Emily, age five says, “I like to do dance with Miss Melinda and to do free dance. Miss Melinda loves me and makes me proud.” 

For more information about Music N’ Motion and to learn how to bring these enriching dance programs to your school, please visit www.mnmdance.com.

Published by: Martin De Juan