These days, there are a variety of classes, programs and dance troupes for children and adults who want to learn ballet. There are many benefits to ballet, even some that can alleviate disabilities such as learning disorders. However, the path to finding a place to dance isn't always a smooth one.
The climate
It used to be very difficult for children and adults to enroll in ballet. If the classes allowed the disabled, they usually didn't have the necessary accommodations to take in the student. Nowadays, however, this is changing as special needs students are considered. Some classes, and even dance troupes, exist solely for the disabled. In some cases, the ballet moves are changing. For example, there are now standardized moves for those in wheelchairs. The best place to start is your local government, either the recreation or the arts department, depending on the size of your hometown.
The benefits
Movement and rhythm play very important roles for those with disabilities. Not only can it aid in brain development, it can improve coordination and motor skills. Forward and backward movements can aid in reading comprehension; clockwise and counterclockwise movements can help students learn to tell time. Learning the left and right sides of the body, memorizing steps, understanding the sequence of movements and more all help the disabled in the academic sense. These examples don't even begin to cover the physical and social benefits all humans have by participating in physical activity in a social setting. Physical activity and outside socialization are both essential factors in aiding a disabled person.
Considerations
While there have been many advancements for the disabled dancer, there are still things to consider. Before enrolling in a class, be sure that the dance program both allows disabled students and makes special accommodations for them. Do not be defensive about any exclusion, as many times the exclusions are well-intentioned. Dancing is an intense art that can easily frustrate any student, and this should also be considered before jumping in. Quite often, it is the student or the student's family that creates the limitations. Lack of confidence and fear of failure must be overcome to tackle learning ballet.
Resources
http://www.bellaonline.com/articles/art21225.asp
http://www.ballet-dance.com/about/
http://www.familiesonthego.org/Parenting_Tips/Dancing_and_Disabilities.htm
Ballet
This is the teaser.