articles

My Kid Wants To Dance. Now What?

Sponsored By: Greenleaf Performing Arts Academy

By Carolyn Jensen: new mom, theatre instructor, student of life, and co-founder of Greenleaf’s school of dance October 24, 2017

For many parents without a background in dance, the foray into this mysterious world may feel daunting. What’s a perfect ballet bun? Do we need jazz or ballet shoes for this ballet/jazz combo class? And most importantly – how do I choose a dance studio where my child will thrive? Here are a few things to consider before enrollment.

1.    How will my child’s body be cared for?
Dance is an athletic pursuit as much as an artistic one. As such, teachers and studio administrators should be providing an environment of safety along with one of stretching – literally. Does the studio have a “sprung” or “floating” floor? These help dancers avoid injury. Is a proper amount of time given to warm up at the beginning of class before students spend time on challenging routines? Are students advanced through levels with careful consideration based on their physical development and strength rather than just age? If your child wants to dance, they should be able to dance for a lifetime.

2.    How is correction given?
Dance is often an exacting and demanding pursuit. Learning proper technique and form is essential for a dancer’s artistic development as well as their physical safety, so the correction must be a priority for any good dance teacher. Sadly, correction given harshly or inconsistently can quickly quench a child’s love for dance. Is correction delivered in a way that affirms the child’s value as a person and the progress they are making as a dancer? Is the student given clear direction on ways to improve and things to practice rather than simply critiqued?

3.    How much emphasis is placed on competitions?
We’ve all heard the Little League “aggressive parent” and “mean coach” horror stories and the dance world can sometimes become just as bad. Does a wall full of trophies mean a studio is the best one around (it might) or does it mean that the competition team gets all the attention (run fast and far)? A single episode of Lifetime’s Dance Moms would almost be enough for me to shun the world of dance forever for my own daughter, were I not also personally aware of the dramatically positive benefits dance delivers to students physically, mentally, socially, and yes, even academically, through training in self-discipline and focus. While competition may be a positive experience for some children, make sure that the studio you choose puts their highest emphasis on their students’ development as whole artists, not on impressing judges.

4.    What types of performances and recitals will occur?
If you’re able to view a studio’s recital or any performance prior to enrollment, you’ll gain a much better idea of the level of technique older students are achieving, the type of music your child will hear in class, and the style of costuming your child may be required to wear. Are the attire and topics age appropriate? Observe the older classes too: if your child falls in love with dance, these are their role models and the direction in which their dance education is heading.

5.    Does this studio offer varied opportunities in the arts?
As much as opera singers and actors benefit from a few years of tap and ballet, so dancers greatly expand their expressive range through being able to add voice, dance, and music theory to their repertoire. A studio that allows your child to explore multiple strands in the performing arts can provide a huge boost to their education and help him or her become a more versatile artist and well-rounded individual.

Many studios will welcome potential students in for a scheduled tour. See if your child can take a sample class or two. Ask the studio administrators about their educational philosophy. Even if dance is outside of your personal comfort zone, you can find the right dance home for your child with some simple questions and observations.

If you’d like to schedule a sample class or consultation at Greenleaf Performing Arts Academy, email greenleaf_academy@yahoo.com or call 913-397-7071. We’d love to meet you and help you discover whether we’re the right place for your family. You can find out more about Greenleaf’s classes and philosophy or register online at GreenleafStudio.org.

Greenleaf Performing Arts Academy was founded in 1999 to serve students through excellent training in music, dance, & theatre (pre-school to pre-professional), a family-friendly environment, and a holistic Christian perspective.