ABSTRACT Researchers and cultural theorists Ronnberg and Mouritsen both describe three kinds of creative products in children's culture: (1) products created for children by adults, (2) with children and adults working together, and (3) by children working alone. Each kind of activity serves a different social function for children and creates a different psychological effect. This article examines children's dance through the lens of Ronnberg and Mouritsen's framework for understanding children's culture. It discusses how what we learn from this perspective relates to the structuring of dance pedagogy. Recommendations are explored that look at how dance-making activities can be most productive for social and emotional growth in children. The specific arena of studio recital and competition performances is addressed.