Starting dance classes can be a fun and exciting experience, but also a bit nerve wracking! Whether your child is dreaming of being the perfect little ballerina or rivalling the likes of Fred Astaire with their tap dancing abilities, the first class is a big step. So to help you and your child feel prepared for the studio, here are our top 10 tips to put you ahead of the curve.
1. Arrive Early
There is nothing worse than walking into a lesson that has already started, with all eyes on you. Try to arrive at the studio at least 15 minutes beforehand, this leaves you plenty of time to find the studio and for your child to get settled in before the lesson begins.
2. Dress to Impress
Make sure your child is dressed appropriately for class, in general we would advise no loose fitting clothing, any jewellery removed, and hair tied back. Safety first!
3. Bring some Essentials
Apart from the obvious dancewear, there are a few other things you should consider packing in your child’s dance bag. A water bottle, a small snack (we allow a brief break in between classes, dancing can be hungry work!) and any medication they may need throughout the day if required such as asthma pumps.
4. Explain the process
We find it’s best to have a conversation with your child about expectations during class, they should be advised that they must listen to their teacher, not only to be respectful but for safety. We also advise to explain they are there to learn, they will not be perfect at everything right away and that’s okay, it’s all a part of learning.
5. Use the restroom before class
Try to get your child to use the bathroom before class, this will minimize disruption and ensure they are comfortable and allow them to focus during class.
6. Be supportive
Try to be supportive and encouraging, we all want your child to do well but the first focus needs to be ensuring they are comfortable and able to connect with dance, it’s okay if they don’t pick it up right away. As long as the passion is there, the skill will come later.
7. Watch them have fun
We have an area where you can wait whilst your child is in class, although we prefer the parents to not be too visible so the children are able to focus, you can take a little peek through the curtains to see how they are getting on. This can be reassuring for them to know you are close by if they need you.
8. Be ready for tears or excited frenzy
The first dance class could inspire outbursts of excitement and joy or nervousness that brings about tears so you will need to be ready for both. Try to keep them calm so they are able to join in the class, in cases of tears it is completely normal due to nerves. Persevere with it, they will adjust given time.
9. Praise the little things
Don’t expect your child to bring about the fancy footwork after one lesson, it may take them a few lessons to adjust and begin picking up the moves. In the meantime, be ready to praise the little things they do, such as taking part, getting some steps right or showing good listening, it will keep them engaged and wanting to take part.
10. Keep them talking
After class, ask some open ended questions to keep their interest. You could ask what their favourite part of the lesson was or what moves they learned. This gives your child space to share their experience and reflect upon their day.
Final Thoughts
The first dance class can be a nerve wracking experience for children and parents, but the majority leave having really enjoyed the experience and ready for more. With some preparation and encouragement your child will have their best foot forward when stepping into the studio for the first time.
Jack Seager School of Dance 
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