If your child is going to thrive in dance classes, you need to find a studio she will love. This is relatively simple, as long as you know what to look for.
Tip # 1:
First, you need to find a studio that has an instructor that your child likes. Thus, it is a good idea to meet with the instructor prior to enrollment so your child can speak to her. Watch as your child interacts with the instructor. Then, on your way home, ask her what she thought of the teacher.
If your child doesn't like her, don't try to change her mind. Instead, take the time to find someone that your child does like. That way, she will be excited about going to class, which means she will be more apt to learn how to dance.
Tip #2:
Next, you need to make sure the instructor has control of her class. When children are young, they have a hard time speaking up for themselves. Therefore, if an instructor does not have control of her class, good kids can get lost in the shuffle.
You do not want your child to be in a situation where she does not get the attention she needs because a few bad kids are running the show. Not only will she not be able to learn, but she will also become frustrated with her classes. Thus, take the time to observe the class so you can be certain your child will be in a class run by an instructor, not other students.
Tip #3:
After you examine the class, you need to make sure the studio divides kids by level of experience instead of age. Otherwise, your child could spend her first year of dance with kids who have danced for years. This will be incredibly awkward and uncomfortable for her, as she will not be at the same level as the other dancers. In addition, the other dancers might become angry when your child holds up the class when she cannot grasp a concept they already know.
Tip #4:
At the same time, you need to make sure there are children around your child's age in the dance class. She will feel awkward if she is the oldest beginner in a class, just as she will be unhappy if she is the youngest. She needs people around her age so she can bond and feel safe.
If you follow these tips, you can find a dance studio that your child will love. Then, your child will be ready to jump in and learn how to dance.
