If your child has shown interest in joining a dance studio, it’s time to rejoice. The energy, atmosphere and fun of dance classes can help boost a child’s confidence, increase their social skills, and of course, stay fit while having a lot of fun.
As a parent, you’re probably wondering what to look for when choosing a dance studio. Luckily, the process isn’t as complicated as it seems – it merely requires a bit of foreknowledge about what to expect. Read on to learn how you can select the best dance studio for your child, to maximize their enjoyment.
UNDERSTANDING DIFFERENT STUDIOS
It’s important for parents to understand that not all dance studios are alike in terms of operation and instruction. Some studios focus heavily on recreation and fun, while others blend that same recreational style with competitive programs. Other studios focus primarily on one type of dance, so it’s best to do a little bit of research to find out where your child would best fit.
This is subjective, and much of it can be based on your child’s needs and goals. Some children are less interested in dancing at a competitive level, and simply want to have fun and get motivated. Other children are so passionate about dance that they may wish to excel at their craft and go the distance. Once you understand where your child’s goals are, you’ll find it easy to locate the right studio.
EXPERIENCE DEALING WITH CHILDREN
Dance instructors are disciplined and skilled, but that doesn’t automatically make them the best fit for children. Luckily, many dance instructors have both the experience and patience necessary to properly instruct kids so they can get the most out of their lessons. The best dance studios want kids to learn in a fun and upbuilding environment, and they know how best to approach the course routine.
Similarly, the best instructors know how to get through to kids, motivate them to do better, and encourage them with positivity and a sense of fun. Different children sometimes face different challenges, and a great dance instructor knows how to navigate those waters accordingly.
INSTRUCTOR TRAINING
It’s always good to inquire about the training each instructor has received over the course of their career, so you can get a good idea abo
ut what your kids can expect from each class. High levels of instructor training and experience mean that kids will reap the benefits throughout each lesson. Many instructors, including those at CDM Dance, are equipped with acrobatic arts certifications and RAD certifications for ballet instructors.
Highly trained instructors are disciplined, motivated and patient, and they understand the value of hard work and commitment. By combining all these values, instructors can have a marked effect on their students by teaching them the same lessons so that they can excel and enjoy the fruits of their labor.
SPECIALIZED LESSONS
It makes little sense to enroll your child in a dance studio that does not teach the dance styles they are interested in. Therefore, it’s a good idea to inquire with the studio as to what they specialize in, and their degree of experience.
Thankfully, many dance studios including CDM Dance cover a multitude of styles, and they know how to teach kids everything from the basics, right up to the most advanced choreography. In order for children to learn, CDM Dance teaches multiple styles (i.e. ballet and jazz) in order to progress quicker, and develop stronger techniques. From there, they can migrate to other styles such as contemporary and lyrical which depend heavily on the aforementioned styles as a foundational basis.
EXAMINE THE FEES
When paying a dance studio applicable fees to enroll your child, you should make sure you read all the details to understand what you’re getting in return. Dance studios tend to operate on a multi-level pay structure system to accommodate different schedules, but there are other factors to consider as well.
Ask about whether equipment such as shoes and outfits are included with fees, as well as what the charges cover in terms of training (ie. multi-disciplinary vs. single styles). There are times when a dance studio can accommodate you if you ask the appropriate questions that create a better understanding of your child’s needs.
FEEL THE ATMOSPHERE
It’s always a great idea to head down to a dance studio and get a feel for what goes on, before enrolling your child. Positivity and fun are difficult to fabricate, which means parents and their children should get an idea as to the level of enthusiasm and motivation taking place in every class.
If the atmosphere feels vibrant, energetic and fun, then there’s little need to worry. Even if your child feels apprehensive or shy about joining a dance class, there’s a good chance they won’t be able to hide their enthusiasm. Your job as a parent is to motivate them to join in on the fun. After a class or two, they should be bursting with excitement as they tell you about all the fun they’re having.
CDM Dance is focused on becoming the most complete and trusted Dance & Music School in the North York region, and we strive to create an atmosphere that is fun and positive, yet professional and disciplined. Our goal is to make your child love the art of dance, while giving them all the structure and training they need to be the very best dancer they can be. .
CONCLUSION
If your child has expressed an interest in joining a dance studio, CDM Dance wants to hear from you. We love children, and nothing makes us happier than sharing the beauty and artistry of dance with each new generation. Contact us today so we can learn more about your child’s interests, their goals, and your work/life schedule.
