Have you enrolled your child in their first dance class? It’s an exciting time for them but they may also feel a little bit of anxiety. Starting something new isn’t easy.

That’s why it’s so important for you to prepare them for the adventure. Doing this is as simple as buying them the right clothes to dance in or talking to them before their first class. Helping them succeed them goes further than day one, however.

You’ll need to provide love and encouragement as well. To help you get your little dancer ready for class, check out this guide to learn more.  

Show Them What to Expect 

Showing your child videos of other dance classes will give them a taste of what to expect and get them excited about taking classes. Pause the video when they have questions and answer them to the best of your ability.

You should also let them know that practice makes perfect. They’ll need to practice in and out of class to learn and enjoy the lessons. Dance class is hard work but it’s fun hard work. 

Buy the Proper Shoes 

You can’t just put your child in any old shoes and send them on their way. The shoes have to fit correctly and be appropriate for the type of class that the child is taking. 

If you pick up the wrong shoes, your child will be more vulnerable to injuries. Shoes that are too big will prevent the teacher from seeing the full extent of their footwork and shoes that are too small will hurt. 

Ballet Slippers 

Ballet slippers are the basic dancing shoe that most beginning classes require students to have. The slippers shouldn’t be too small for your child’s foot but they do need to fit like a glove. If there’s any material around the toes then it can interfere with their form. 

Ballroom Shoes

Ballroom shoes should be tight without providing too much pressure on their feet. You’ll have the choice between getting them open-toed shoes and closed-toed shoes. Since this is their first class, closed-toed shoes will probably be the better choice. 

They’ll be dancing with a partner so they may need the extra foot protection. Most ballroom shoes have a heel, even the boy’s shoes. 

Make sure that the heel isn’t so large that they feel uncomfortable moving around. A one-inch heel is fine enough. Flared heels will help provide more balance. 

Tap Shoes

If the child has too much room in the shoe the sounds they make will be a bit off. This being said, tap shoes do need to be a little tight but not so tight that it’s squeezing their foot. 

Hip Hop Sneakers 

Hip hop classes require sneakers but not any old sneaker will do. There are a few things that you need to look out for. If the sneaker has too much grip the child won’t be able to slide around or make turns like they need to. 

Go with something that has low or at least medium grip. Slip-on Velcro shoes are fine to use once your student gets more experience. While they’re still learning though, laces are the way to go. 

Choosing the Right Dance Wear 

Like with shoes, there are certain clothes that you’ll need to put your student in. When in doubt, always go for something that fits a little tight. If their clothes are too loose the teacher won’t be able to tell if they’re using the right form. 

If you’re unsure of what you should put them in, contact their teacher and have them give you a few suggestions. 

Encourage Them to Show You What They Learned

Your child wants to impress you so they’ll be excited to show you what they learned while in class. Sit back and let them perform to their heart’s content. Letting them dance for you will help them retain what they’ve learned and its good extra practice. 

Having them “teach” you what they learned will also give them a confidence boost which is important for all beginning dancers. 

Don’t Criticize 

When your child is showing you the things they were taught in class you’ll be tempted to correct their form. You’re trying to be helpful but giving these pointers will do more harm than good. 

As their parent, you should provide support. If you’re concerned that they may be doing something wrong, talk to their teacher. They’ll be able to steer them in the right direction. 

Get Them to Class on Time 

If you ever walked into class late when you were going to school, you know how awkward it is. Everyone stares at you and it’s a huge disruption to the class. You don’t want your child to go through that. 

Especially if it’s their first day. Get them to class on time or even a little bit early. That will allow them to get situated in the new environment and ask their teacher any questions they may have. 

Prepping Your Child to Take Dance Class

Have you enrolled your child in their first dance class? For them to have tons of fun and get the most out of the experience, they’re going to need a little help from you. Use the tips that you’ve read here to prep your child for class and set them up for dancing success. 

Are you not sure if dance classes are right for your child? Why not start them out with a free trial session? Check out our calendar and register with us today.