How This Mum of Two Built a Children’s Dance Brand with Over 100 Locations

From dancing on stage to leading a nationwide franchise, Claire Munday shares how she grew Tappy Toes from a single baby ballet class into an award-winning dance brand with over 30 franchisees – and international success.

When Claire Munday was pirouetting her way across international stages as a professional dancer, she never imagined her next act would involve teddy bears, toddlers, and tutus.

But after a decade in the dance world — performing in pantomimes, music videos, on cruise ships, and in theatre tours — Claire knew one thing for sure: dance would always be part of her life.

“When I became pregnant with my first child, I wanted to find a way to keep dance in my life while also being present for my growing family. That’s where the idea for Tappy Toes really came to life.”

The First Steps

Tappy Toes started as a small weekly dance class for toddlers in Watford, Hertfordshire. Claire noticed a gap in the market – dance classes that focused not just on steps, but on child development, creativity, and confidence-building through movement.

Armed with colourful props, a unique syllabus, and bundles of energy, Tappy Toes quickly grew in popularity with local parents. Word spread, and within a few years, Claire had expanded the programme and trained others to teach it too.

“I realised I couldn’t teach every class myself. That’s when franchising came into the picture — a way to grow the brand without losing its personal, passionate touch.”

From 5 Franchisees to Global Growth

The idea to franchise Tappy Toes was sparked during Claire’s maternity leave. By 2019, there were five franchisees. But it was during the pandemic lockdowns of 2020 that things really changed.

“I could have hit pause. Instead, I used that time to strengthen our online presence, build support systems for our franchisees, and refine the business model.”

The gamble paid off. Over the next two years, the brand exploded in popularity. Tappy Toes now operates in over 100 locations across the UK — from Plymouth to East Dunbartonshire — and even launched in Dubai, where Claire recently trained the second UAE franchisee.

A Brand That Dances to a Different Beat

What sets Tappy Toes apart from other children’s dance classes?

• A focus on early years development through movement
• A gender-neutral approach to dance
• Use of sensory props, storytelling, and structured lesson plans
• Franchisee support with monthly marketing, training and business guidance

“It’s not about perfect technique at this age — it’s about confidence, coordination, social skills, and joy.”

Family Life + Business Life

As a mum of two, Claire designed the Tappy Toes business model to fit around family life and now helps other parents do the same.

“Many of our franchisees are mums, teachers, or dancers who want more flexibility. It’s a way to build something meaningful, while still being there for school runs and bedtime stories.”

What’s Next for Tappy Toes?

“It’s surreal sometimes- from teaching a few toddlers in a hall to seeing children dancing across the world with Tappy Toes. I wouldn’t change a thing.”

Tappy Toes continues to innovate, with SEND-exclusive classes, school partnerships, and even intergenerational sessions in care homes. And with enquiries from new regions coming in every week, the brand shows no signs of slowing down.

Want to Know More

Visit www.tappytoes.com or follow @tappytoesdance on Instagram to see the magic in action. Perhaps I've inspired you to start up your own local branch of Tappy Toes? You can find our more about our franchise opportunities here