Does your child ever say things like “ I’m too tired to go to dance today”?
Ever feel rushed to get to dance class, only to have your child tell you they don’t have their dance shoes upon arrival at the studio?
You are not alone! You may feel defeated and want to give in or give up. Here are some helpful ways to help avoid these situations, creating a better experience for both you and your dancer.
It’s not uncommon for us to hear about young dancers who fall asleep on the way to class during the first month or so of school. Getting used to a new schedule is not easy! Some children won’t be shy about stating how tired they are after school is out; others just feel a little grouchy by the time dance class rolls around.
● Create a fun “going-to-dance” ritual. Whether it’s the music you jam out to on the way to class each week, or a family pizza night afterward, a special ritual can always perk up the day. The routine built around attending dance class can have a tremendous impact on your child’s ability to adapt to their schedule.
● Offer gentle, consistent reassurance. While we all know that logic doesn’t always fly with children, sometimes they feel better just knowing you understand and are there for them. Remind them that feeling tired after school is normal, and that the feeling will get better over time. Let them know that you’re proud of them for making an effort.
● Be prepared with water and snacks! Children who are well-hydrated and who’ve had a light snack before dance class feel more refreshed and ready to move. They have the energy they need to enjoy the experience and retain what they’ve learned.
● Keep the dance shoes and clothing in a special dance bag your child has selected. Be sure to return it to a consistent place in the house so your child can adapt to the routine of including their dance bag when it is time to change into dance clothes, and leave for the studio.
We know that it can be a challenge sometimes to know what to do to offer support and encouragement for your dancer—especially if you are still new to the world of dance! Here are four of our best tips for making the most out of your child’s dance class experience:
1) Talk about dance at home
Although many of our young dancers take just one or two classes per week, dance is usually on their minds every day! Read dance books together or listen to music and try some dance moves in the living room. This helps keep your child’s mind engaged about dance in an extra-fun way—because they can share it with you!
2) Ask your child to teach you what they are learning
Since dance lessons are built on structure and repetition, teaching someone else can be a fun way to practice. Even if your child is still working on remembering their steps, this can help exercise their memory! (Plus, it can be pretty cute.)
3) Find out what your child likes best about class, or what they find challenging
Gain insight into what your child loves about dance—and what they think is hard—by asking them about their class. Do they have a favorite step? Have they made some new friends? What do they like about their teacher? These answers can help you understand what your child’s experience is like.
4) Voice your support
The way you praise your child can be very useful in helping them get the most out of dance class! Use phrases like, “I love watching you dance!” or “I can tell you’ve been working hard.” or “Did you try your best? That’s what’s most important.” Your child’s confidence and enthusiasm will continue to grow with this kind of encouragement at home and at class.
We hope these four tips come in handy as your child progresses through our dance season and of course, we’re always happy to help with any class curriculum or programming questions you might have. We’re so thankful you’ve chosen Keh School of Dance for your child’s education in dance!
Practicing at Home: Dos and Don’ts
Many of our students absolutely love practicing dance at home. You’ll find them twirling in the living room and tapping in the kitchen—they just can’t contain their enthusiasm! It’s not uncommon for a parent to tell us that their child feels compelled to choreograph with their friends after school or teach their stuffed animals how to piqué and passé.
If your child is one these non-stop movers, you might have started wondering, “What can I do to encourage this practice in a safe way? How can I foster this passion?”
At Kehl, we get it! And we’ve got some great advice for you here with our Dos and Don’ts for practicing at home:
First and foremost, Do designate a specific spot in your house that is “dance practice” space! This could be a room or hallway with very little furniture, or perhaps your garage—somewhere that is easy to move in. Don’t allow tap shoes on your easily-scuffed floors, and never allow your child to practice in pointe shoes at home (even if she has earned her shoes).
Do challenge your child to practice what they remember from class, but don’t worry if they just want to improvise their own moves! Resist the urge to “teach” the dance steps yourself; Do allow your child’s dance teacher to be the authority of those skills in the classroom.
Don’t expect perfection with at-home practice; it should feel relaxed and carefree as much as possible. Do suggest that your child practice with music (any music!) since it will help them become even more familiar with finding the beat and keeping time with rhythms.
Also take care to supervise when your child practices; do watch what they’re doing at home to ensure they are safe—and don’t hesitate to join in the fun!
Practicing dance at home should always feel comfortable and supportive so that your child can unleash their creativity and joy for dancing. If you ever have any questions about what is safe or appropriate to practice at home, please ask! We’re happy to help.
