Choosing a dance school for kids
Tuesday, October 14th, 2008The Austin area is blessed with excellent instruction for children and youth in all of the dance academies. Teachers are well trained and have an enthusiasm for making sure your child gets the benefit of knowing how to dance. Boys and girls can find a class that fits their personality and satisfies the goals of the parents.
Find a list of all the Austin area dance schools at www.movineasy.com/wheretodance with listings by location, age, and style of dance.
Choosing a dance school is an important step for a family. Your choice will increase your child’s excitement for learning throughout their life, and you will enter a special support network with other caring parents.
Your challenge is to select the type of dance education based on family goals and on the child’s personality and desires. Choosing a school is a focus for your child and for you as a parent. That focus can be as varied as relationships with neighborhood friends or a window to the art of professional dancers. The opportunities offered are different forms of expression in dance styles and performances.
Parents find a support group that is involved in experiencing the growth of exuberance and skill in their children. This is a focus that is a growing experience for parents as well as their children.
Recommendations from friends are a great way to choose a school. Most schools will allow you to observe a class or come to an open house.
It is important for your child to bond with the teacher and connect with the other students in the school. You will know these things after the first week of class, although most times parents are very satisfied with their decision after visiting a school with their child.
Dance studios have different approaches and each has its advantages. Some options are: 1. Academies associated with professional or semi-professional companies 2. Academies that build performance and competition into their curriculum 3. Training academies that focus on instruction and use performing as an option.
Parent goals are important. Having a neighborhood school where friends dance together may be your priority. Or you may want a school associated with a well known performing youth group or professional company. Or you may decide on one form of dance or a specific set of skills that you want for your child’s development. Honor your preferences for the type of instruction and the kind of involvement you wish for your child. Then be open to the direction that excites you and your child.
It is not hard to find the right school with excellent instruction and caring, dedicated teachers. If you have special needs, the directors and teachers of the academies are always willing to help.