Dance Moms & Dance Dads
HOW PARENTS CAN SUPPORT THEIR TINY DANCERS
Being the parent of a young dancer doesn’t come without support and dedication. It can be an intimidating and challenging experience, especially if you’ve never danced before. One minute you’re dropping your little one off at dance to learn some steps and burn off some energy, and before you know it, you’re a fully dedicated dance Mom and Dad!
So let’s start with the basics.. you turn into a personal hairstylist, seamstress, act as a chauffeur. You manage busy exam and showcase schedules as well as weekly classes and not to mention finances.
Though you’re well on your way, here’s our survival guide to support you on your journey…
DON’T EXPECT TOO MUCH, TOO SOON.
Stepping into a studio can be an exciting yet daunting thought for your little one. New surroundings, new faces and most of all a brand new skill to grasp! It is perfectly normal for your dancer to be a little hesitant at first. Some children settle in pretty quickly, skipping and twirling around the studio. Others may take a few weeks. For these children, it is important to remember that they are still learning, but by taking in their new surroundings and observing. Always offer kind words of encouragement and support before class; “I’m so proud of you dancing with the rest of your class”, “You are going to have so much fun!” A little goes a long way.
SHOW INTEREST OUTSIDE OF CLASS
You’re the first person who can help your tiny dancer reach their full potential. Show that you’re interested, even outside of class . Ask your child to show you what they have been learning. This is very beneficial because it helps them retain information and broaden their understanding of the steps. Ask them to demonstrate. Simply “teaching” someone else gives a child a noticeable boost in confidence!
ENCOURAGE DAILY STRETCHING AND THE PRACTICE OF STRENGTHENING EXERCISES.
Create an at home dance space. Just a designated area in your house for your child’s practice, having a small space set-up simply creates an invitation for them to practice more often. Play some music and watch your little ones’ ideas run free. Here they can practice stretching and strengthening exercises. Home stretching is an important role to becoming a better dancer and it is much easier for children to gain flexibility when they are younger, yes it hurts a little and results don’t happen overnight but is an important aspect of your child’s dance practice. Strengthening exercises also go hand in hand with stretching. They help prevent injury and increase balance and elevation. You could ask your child’s teacher for exercises that will best serve your child.
PROMOTE DANCE ETIQUETTE.
Help your dancer understand what should be expected of them from the beginning. Wearing fitted dancewear and footwear helps them to understand that they are going to a structured lesson each week. Hair should always be neatly tied back. Moving on to studio etiquette. Teach your child to think about how they would wish to be treated and how to respond to their teachers and peers with respect. Use your manners around all things dance and you’ll never step a foot out of line.
ALWAYS SHOW HOW PROUD YOU ARE OF THEIR ACHIEVEMENTS.
Being a number one supporter means being positive through the ups and downs, wins and losses of being a dancer. Your child’s peers have achieved a higher exam result? That’s perfectly okay. Show that you care about their personal improvements and not outshining someone else. Always focus on the positive and encourage your little one to always try their very best. Be proud no matter what!