There’s something both thrilling and a little terrifying about the moment when you realise you have signed your child up for the first dance class and it is coming around! What do you need to do? How do you prepare your child so they are going to have the best possible time and maybe start a new activity that will be with them for years? Here are our tips to help you.
Know what your child needs to wear
When enrolling your child in dance classes, it is important to be aware of the uniform requirements.
Most dance schools will provide a list of what needs to be worn to class. This not only allows your child to be prepared for what they will be doing, but it also lines up with the school’s rules and guidelines.
Having the right clothing will allow dance teachers to see if they have right alignment and reduce the risk of injuries caused by the wrong clothing.
In addition, it is important to make sure that your child’s hair is properly styled and secured. Loose hair can be a distraction, and it can also get in the way of proper technique.
Make sure they have the right dance shoe
Dance shoes are an important part of a dancer’s wardrobe, and it is important to make sure that they fit properly.
Form-fitting shoes will help to reduce the risk of tripping and mean the child can feel the floor properly when they are first learning to point their toes.
However, just because they are formfitting, doesn’t mean that there can’t be a bit of growing room. Make sure that the shoes are snug but not too tight, and that there is enough room in the toes to allow for growth. With the right dance shoes, your child will be able to dance with confidence and ease.
Have a dance gear bag
As any dancer knows, practice makes perfect. But to practice, you need the right gear. That’s why it’s important to have a dance bag packed and ready to go for every class.
Dance shoes and clothes can get dirty quickly, so it’s best to keep them stored in a bag until you’re ready to wear them. This way, you can be sure that your child is always dressed in clean gear and ready to dance their heart out.
Plus, having a designated dance bag will help to keep your child’s other belongings clean and organized. So next time class rolls around, be sure to pack a dance bag and let your child get changed at class. They’ll be glad you did.
Let them know what to expect
Starting school can be a big step for some kids, and it’s normal for them to feel a little nervous about what to expect.
Before their first class, it can be helpful to talk with your child about their teacher, what they’ll be doing in the class, and who else will be there. This way, there won’t be any unpleasant surprises on the first day.
Discussing these things ahead of time can provide comfort and reassurance for your child. Additionally, let them know that it’s okay to feel a little nervous at first – everyone feels this way at some point.
The important thing is to give it a try and see how they like it. With a little preparation, your child will be ready to start their new adventure.