Tips for a Young Dancer’s First Day of Dance Class

The first day of dance is an exciting, magical time. It may cultivate memories of a parent’s participation, or it may mark a major milestone for your child.

Because our young dancer classes at Stage Door Dance Productions are all independent participation, there are a few tips that will help prepare you and your dancer for a successful day.

• SEPARATION ANXIETY IS NORMAL

  At drop-off, your dancer may show signs of separation anxiety, including nervousness, tears, and/or an unwillingness to enter the studio. This behavior is common for the first several weeks as the child adjusts to a new routine.

  Our team is prepared to help guide your child into the classroom in a kind and nurturing way. With SpotTV, you’ll be able to see and hear the entire class via your personal digital device, which is much less disruptive (and crowded) than observation windows or community closed circuit monitors.

  Please do not follow the your child into the classroom as it is highly disruptive to the learning environment.

• TALK YOUR CHILD THROUGH THE EXPERIENCE

  Have a conversation with your child about what to expect. Tell them they’re going to be taking a dance class on their own. Talk about the style(s) of dance and review their instructor’s name(s). Let them know that you’ll be leaving them at the beginning of class and picking them up at the end (and, make sure you are on time; late pick-ups are very stressful to children). You can even show them our observation app, SpotTV, so your child knows you will be watching them at all times.

  After the class, continue the conversation:

  • Was there a move they liked?

  • Did they hear a song they enjoy?

  • Share 1-2 things you liked viewing on SpotTV.

  These moments bring the experience full-circle between studio, parent, and dancer, creating a meaningful trifecta of investment.

• MAKE SURE YOUR STRESS DOESN’T BECOME THEIR STRESS

  Children can sense stress and anxiety. Plan ahead and be prepared, so there’s no stress surrounding your dance class experience.

• UNDERSTAND THE JOURNEY

  For our younger dancers, the structure and routine of the class is a huge part of the learning process. Our curriculum is designed with fun, creative, metaphorical songs, props, and games that will ignite their creativity and hold their attention in a developmentally appropriate way.

  With that being said, there may be days where a dancer opts to observe a song or chooses not to participate in every locomotor activity during our skills segment. That’s okay! Children learn through observing, and we believe in cultivating their passion alongside their readiness.

• HAVE FUN!

  We believe dance should be a stress-free and fun activity for our families. If there’s anything we can do to improve your child’s in-studio experience, please let us know.