A lockdown-free, post-pandemic life tantalizingly awaits on the other side of an aggravatingly long delay. As parents, we have been pining for the day we can take our dancers back to dance class without having to worry about the deadly consequences that have been hanging over our heads.
And yet, we should be careful about what we wish for.
Simply because we’re ready to return to normal doesn’t mean we are ready. Although you may be familiar with taking your dancer to dance class, the last time was a long time ago. In fact, your dancer’s long-awaited return to dance class will be more like the very first time than any other more recent time.
Just think: Have you forgotten anything that could be really important? Has anything changed since then? Have you done any preparation? It’s okay to say no, but if that is the case, you need to get prepared.
To help you get up to speed, let’s go through the following checklist to ensure a smooth transition for your dancer as they return to in-person dance classes.
Children grow up fast, but their clothes don’t. Don’t expect the gear they wore years ago to dance class to still fit. Make sure the dance clothes are in good shape and meet the requirements of the class.
Furthermore, seeing that online classes have become a popular option of late, keep in mind that in-person dance classes are quite different from the relaxed home environment you’ve become accustomed to. Get the right clothes for the right circumstance.
Children’s dance classes need to set guidelines to keep things orderly. Make sure you’ve familiarized yourself with rules that you and your dancer need to follow. Your compliance will help create a streamlined procedure that helps everyone in the long run.
At CDM Dance & Music, we adhere to a strict dress code. A neat and tidy appearance shows respect for the class, other students, the teacher, and the art of dancing.
If you need to purchase a dance uniform, the bottom half of our dress code web page lists a number of local vendors that can help, or you can try our online store.
Please read up on our dress code if necessary.
At CDM Dance & Music, health and safety is our top priority. That’s why we have an entire page of health and safety guidelines to ensure that your dancer stays safe.
Nothing is more important than keeping a safe environment; to that end, you can help us maintain this safe zone by reading up on our COVID-19 rules and making sure they are complied with.
Switching from a reclusive home lifestyle to an active outside one is very abrupt, and you’ll need to be ready for this change. You’ll need to receive updates when they happen, and to notify others if needed. For this reason, it’s important to have all the right contact information before you’re stuck outside looking for a Wi-Fi signal.
The opposite is also true. Does your dance class have your contact information? Do you need to update them of any changes? Does your dance class know about your dancer’s medical history, allergy information, and costume size?
What’s more, you should also ask yourself: Are you up to date on current class offerings, class sizes, class times, and class levels that might have changed from before?
As they say, an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure! Make sure the right people have all the right information before heading back to dance class.
Dancing is a physical activity that demands routine. Falling out of routine will cause a dancer to get rusty which, in turn, may lead to injury if not careful.
If a return to dance class signifies a long layoff for your dancer, make sure they are ready. Have them dance on their own to help them get back on track. Encourage them to be active to bring their conditioning up; get them to stretch to keep them limber and less prone to injury.
Whatever you do, don’t let their return to dance class be the first time they have danced in a long time.
With these few reminders, you and your dancer are all set for a smooth return to the dance class. Be prepared, stay positive, and you’re in store for an enjoyable and stress-free experience!
This summer, CDM Dance & Music is offering a Summer Dance Camp and Summer Dance Classes that will also be offered online. Choose from a variety of courses and themes that will challenge and stimulate your dancer! Check out our website to find out more!
