At SDC, we’re not just teaching dance steps in our classrooms—we’re developing curious, compassionate young leaders and equipping them for success!

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 three of our best tips for making the most out of your child’s class experience throughout the season:

• 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!

• 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.)

• 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 three tips come in handy as your child progresses through the season, and of course we’re always happy to help with any class curriculum or programming questions you might have.  Thank you for choosing to dance with us!

– Ms. Julie