Dancers and their parents should want to get the most out of the dance classes they participate in. Below are a few tips to maximize what your dancer gets from their dance experience.
Arrive to class on time: Younger dancers should arrive shortly before their class with enough time to get shoes on, personal items put away and ready to dance. For older dancers, they should have time to prepare and warm up their bodies for whatever class they are entering.
Dress for success: Come dressed for the style that you are dancing in. Most dance studios have a published dress code to ensure the shoes and clothing allow the child to get the most out of their class.
Eyes and ears open, mouth closed: Pay attention to what the teacher is demonstrating or talking about. Be attentive at all times, and keep eye contact with your instructor. Keep idle chatter to an absolute minimum. Move your body, not your lips!
Make sure you have proper room to dance: When it’s time to dance, spread out in the space and find a window where you can be seen. Make sure you are not too close or too far from the dancer next to you. When going to the ballet barre, ensure you can raise your leg without kicking the person next to you. When waiting in line for across the floor progressions, see if there are a balanced number of dancers in each line and find the spot where you can fill in.
Try different spots in the class room: Many dancers always try to go to the same spot in the class room, but get our of your comfort zone and try different spots on the dance floor. Embrace each space in the room and when you are called out on to the dance floor, find new places to dance.
Learn to follow or when to lead: If there are dancers who are in class who are older, more experienced, they have earned a spot in the front of warm ups, leading lines across the floor, etc. Take a step back and let them lead. You will have your turn in that leadership role as well. If you are in the leader position, take that seriously and be someone worth following.
Dance with integrity: Take advantage of every opportunity you have to dance, always give it your best, and let everyone know via your dancing how much dance means to you. Share your passion with those around you and bring a positive attitude in to every dance class you attend. You will only get out of it what you put in.
(this post was republished from 2018)
