We may have a bias in saying this, but dance is an excellent activity for children. Reading the Benefits Your Child Experiences in the Right Dance Environment will show you how dance promotes exercise, health, social skills, and self-expression. But what about the dance studio parents in the background, driving their kids to and from dance class, garnering little to no recognition? Parents play a crucial role in nurturing, supporting, and guiding young dancers through their dance journey. They take steps to thrive in their physical, emotional, and mental well-being.
In this article, we will look at five key roles that parents play in their child’s dance development. You will realize you do more than you think.
Photo credit: Eye for Ebony
1. Parents spark motivation when young dancers are feeling low.
In the realm of weekly dance studio classes, your child is experiencing a gamut of emotions. Their peers and teachers cheering them on make them feel good. They may also feel low or out of place in classes that are challenging for them.
As a parent, these are golden opportunities to frame the right perspective for them in times of need. When challenges like injuries, rejection, or failure arise, swoop in and remind them of their value. Celebrate all victories – big and small – with a treat. Ice cream, anyone?
2. Taking care of the bills is a huge form of support.
Let’s face it: parents are just as involved as their children in dance without having to learn a single dance step. From tuition and costume costs to driving them to the studio and competitions, you are there every step of the way. This is the part where you pat yourself on the back for all that you do.
3. Choosing the right dance studio is in your hands.
Your influence can be felt long before your child enters a dance class. It’s ultimately the parents’ call to assess the credentials, environment, and values of the dance studio they put their child in. Is there a way to track progress before they perform on stage? Can you spot any concerns? For example, bad teaching methods or negative peer interactions? You can keep your child on the right track with these benchmarks in mind.
4. Show them discipline and commitment through dance.
As much as dance is fun, it is also a vehicle for teaching responsibility, overcoming procrastination, and committing to growth. When young dancers struggle with discipline and hard work, parents can help. They should encourage them to practice at home, manage their time, and set goals. Your words of wisdom can re-energize them for the next class. We’re not just building future dancers; we’re building future adults too.
5. Preparing for Competitions and Performances
It’s showtime. You’re en route to the dance recital and you’re starting to sense their anxiety. You are there to help your child manage the stress and nervousness before they step into the spotlight of the stage. You ensure they are physically ready, well-rested, and have everything they need for that performance (costumes, makeup, etc.).
When the show is finally over, you are still there. You offer feedback and celebrate their successes, no matter the outcome.
Photo credit: Jonas Kakaroto
When we break down all the things parents do for their young dancers, it’s a lot. You are there every step of the way. You motivate them during the long dance season. You pay the bills, choose the right studio, encourage commitment, and prepare them for performances.
Sometimes parents do so much for their child’s dance development that they may not carve out time for themselves. If you’re a parent who does more than most, we encourage you to read our article called, Parents Need Time Too – because, well, you do.
Here at PULSE, we want to thank all the parents, grandparents, guardians, and supporters of all kinds for your part in shaping our amazing dancers, whether you know it or not. We encourage you to maintain that support as they explore their passion for dance with us.
To find where to start your child’s dance journey, start with PULSE and check out all these kids' classes that we offer!
