Tips For Choosing The Right Dance Studio

Selecting a dance school for your child can seem like an overwhelming task. If you make the correct choice, your child will develop a deep love for the art of dance. If you make the wrong decision, your child may turn away from his or her natural talents in favor of something less challenging. So how do you know that you are making the correct choice? Follow this simple guide to assist you with this decision.

Age of the Student

Most children start dance around the ages of 3-5 years old. This is a perfect time to introduce them to dance using fun and creativity. Make sure for these young students, the dance studio provides introductory classes geared to their ages.

Curriculum

A popular trend is for dance students to take not only ballet or tap, but both. As they progress, they are introduced to jazz and modern techniques. This is a matter of preference, but the result is a well rounded dancer or a child that knows exactly what method they prefer.

Class Size

This can be a deciding factor for many parents, thinking that smaller class sizes are better, but that is not always the case. Pay attention to how your child interacts with other children in everyday situations. Does he or she prefer to play in small groups or is he or she happiest when surrounded by many children? This will give you a clue as to which class size is better suited to your child's personality.

Instructors

How experienced are the instructors? Do they also use teacher's aids? A dance instructor for children should have the same qualities that you look for in a pre-school teacher, kind and patient, but firm enough to stay in control.

Competitions/Recitals

Every parent wants to see their little one on stage, so find out if the studio has recitals and if participation is mandatory or not. As the student progresses, is the studio involved in competitions? This would be a good time to ask about costume expenses!

Expenses

This can vary from school to school, so be sure to get a detailed explanation of the costs involved. Aside from just tuition costs, find out about hidden fees such as shoes and dancewear. Many schools have a lower tuition fee, but require students to purchase dance shoes and dancewear directly from the studio at a considerable mark up. Other studios offer a higher tuition, but students aren't required to purchase their dancewear there. The studio down the street is a little less the cost, but requires that students purchase their branded dancewear and shoes.

Location

Consider the location of the dance school carefully. If your child develops are true love of dance, you can plan on traveling to the studio many times a week. Make sure that the distance will not become a problem as your child gets older and classes take place after school. Will you have enough time to get him or her there by the start of class? Do you need a studio closer to home or closer to work? These are important things to consider.

Studio Policies

Consider the studio's policies regarding missed classes and make-ups, student progression to other classes, and parental guidelines. Can a student make-up a class they miss due to illness? When are students considered for the next level of classes? Can parents watch the classes through an observation window and/or video monitor, or are there "observation" days?

As you can see, selecting the right dance school doesn't have to be stressful decision. With these tips in hand, you can make an informed choice and send your little rising STAR on his or her way!

Contact us at our Meridian, Idaho dance studio with any of your questions, we'd be to happy to answer any of your questions and would love for you to stop by to check out our studio!