Signing your child up for dance classes is a wonderful idea! There are many benefits of children taking dance lessons. It provides a great opportunity for little ones to meet new friends and discover what they love. 

Some children may be shy about starting dance class or trying something new, which is normal. It’s normal for anyone to feel this way no matter their age. If you want to prepare your child for a dance and music academy, then there are a few steps you can take.

Preparing them for their first dance class will help make the transition smoother and less anxious for everyone. In the guide below, you’ll find a few ways to prepare your child for dance classes in San Diego. Continue reading to learn more and to get started!

Select Dance Attire With Them

Whether it’s hip-hop dance classes in San Diego or another type of San Marcos dance studio, there will most likely be some sort of required dance attire for your child to wear each class. The dance instructor will be able to inform you about what type of dance attire your little one will need from their dance shoes to their leotard and everything in between.

There might also be special occasions when fun and exciting costumes are worn. A great way to prepare your little one for dance classes is to bring them with you to the dance shop. Allow them to pick out their own dance attire as long as it fits within the instructor’s requirements.

They’ll have lots of fun selecting their tights, shoes, leotards, hair accessories, and more. This will help get them excited to begin classes!

Speak With Them About the Class

One reason why children feel shy or scared about starting new things is they don’t know what to expect. The fear of the unknown can be put to rest by understanding what’s to come. If your child seems shy about starting dance classes, then it could be because they don’t know what it’ll consist of. 

To help ease these fears, be sure to speak with your child about what they can expect from their first dance class. Having a difficult time thinking of what to tell them? Don’t hesitate to ask their dance instructor!

The dance instructor will be happy to explain to you what your child can expect from dance class. This way, they come prepared, knowing exactly what to expect. 

Encourage Them to Meet New Friends

Attending dance classes in San Diego is a great way to meet new friends. It’s not different than finding friends at daycare or school. Even if your child’s shy, they’re sure to meet at least one other child in the class with who they become close dance friends. 

Encourage your child to meet new friends. Explain to them how many other children their age will be in the class as well. Then, give it some time. 

They might not come home after the first class with a new best friend, but as the classes go by, they’ll soon have someone they enjoy sitting next to and talking to. 

Visit the Dance Studio Prior to Class

Remember the fear of the unknown? Another good way to help ease that fear is visiting the dance studio before the day of the first class. This gives both you and your little one time to become familiar with the studio and the instructor. 

Ask the instructor if you can schedule a time before the day of the class to come by the studio and receive a tour. Your child can ask questions get a feel for the place while there. 

Bring Them Fed and Well-Rested

On the day of their first class, be sure to bring them in fed and well-rested. The last thing you want to happen is your child becoming distracted by a hungry belly. Feed them a healthy meal that’ll boost their energy before class. 

They should also get enough sleep the night before to prevent exhaustion or becoming tired and sleepy during class. It’s also a good idea to bring several healthy snacks and a refillable water bottle for them during any breaks and immediately after class.

Stay Positive and Excited for Them

Children tend to feed off of their parents’ emotions and actions. If you’re nervous about the class, then they might be also. Instead, try to use positive language when speaking about the class and stay excited for them.

Show them how excited and happy you are to go to the dance class with them. When they see how excited you are, they may become just as excited. 

Have a Sibling or Friend Join as Well

If your child is shyer than most, then you can consider signing up one of their siblings for dance as well. Both boys and girls are welcome to join. There are also classes for children ranging from the age of two to teens! 

The entire family can join classes if desired. When your child sees a sibling or a close friend go to dance class, then they may feel more comfortable with it. 

You Can Help Your Little One Prepare for Dance Class Today

Is your little one ready to start dance class in San Diego? You can help your child prepare for their first North County academy of dance class by remembering these helpful steps. Preparing your child for their first class will ensure a smooth transition into something new for everyone.

Are you ready to get started? Check out our class schedule to enroll your child today!