A Parent’s Guide to Choosing a Great Dance Studio

When searching for a dance studio for your child, there are certain things to look for to encourage a positive and healthy experience. Here are key factors to consider when choosing a studio for your child’s dance training.

Trained Dance Instructors

Dance classes should be well structured and taught by experienced dance teachers. A professional performance career does not always translate to effective classroom teaching, so you may want to inquire about teacher credentials, certifications, and experience working with young students. Teachers should be knowledgeable, patient, kind, and encouraging to ensure a great introduction to dance!

Dance Studio Philosophy & Culture

Studios may emphasize either a competitive or a recreational dance environment. Consider whether your child thrives in a structured, goal-oriented setting or prefers a more relaxed, exploratory approach to dance. Understanding the studio’s philosophy can help align your expectations with your child’s needs.

Space for Dancing

Studios should have dance spaces that support a dancer’s health and safety. There should be enough space for children to move about freely while remaining focused. Sprung wooden or floating Marley floors protect bones, ligaments, and joints while preventing slips, falls, and injuries.

Studios offering a variety of classes should have the appropriate equipment. Ballet classes should have ballet barres, for instance, and acrobatics classes should have cushioned mats for the floor. The environment should be welcoming, and the equipment should be intact.

Age-Appropriate Curriculum

Studios should have a progressive system of instruction where lessons build on one another. New skills should be taught in each class so students continue to improve and advance. Students should generally be grouped into classes by age and dance experience. Classes should be challenging, but not push beyond a child’s physical limitations.

Additionally, inquire about song selections played in class to ensure students are practicing and performing to age-appropriate music. You may wish to inquire about costume selections for performances as well to ensure they are appropriate for young dancers.

Class Variety & Progression

A dance studio should offer a variety of dance styles such as ballet, jazz, tap, hip hop, contemporary/modern, and acrobatics. There should also be a structured progression system or established curriculum in each dance style where students can advance as they develop their skills.

Class Size

Your child should have plenty of individual attention so she can receive corrections and learn proper body placement, especially in the beginning levels. Large classes may have teacher assistants to help offset larger class sizes.

Performance & Recital Opportunities

Many studios prioritize stage experience, offering yearly recitals, showcases, or competitions. Check if performances are optional or required and whether costumes and participation fees are included in tuition.

Parental Involvement & Communication

Consider how the studio communicates with parents. Do they send newsletters, emails, or use social media or an app? Also, find out if parents can observe classes regularly or only on designated days. Some studios have viewing windows or video cameras to view class in progress.

Trial Classes & Studio Visits

Before committing, attend a trial class or open house. This allows you to assess the teaching style, atmosphere, and how your child responds to the class.

Financial Considerations & Hidden Fees

Ask for a breakdown of costs beyond monthly tuition, such as registration fees, costume fees, recital participation, and competition expenses.

Inclusivity & Special Needs Programs

If your child has specific learning needs or disabilities, ask whether the studio has experience accommodating them. Some studios offer adaptive dance programs or have instructors trained in working with students with special abilities.

Amenities & Cleanliness

Studios should have dressing rooms, changing areas, and lockers or shelves for storing dance bags and supplies. Check for cleanliness within the dance spaces and waiting areas. Many studios also have policies and procedures for health and safety that you may wish to ask about.

Final Thoughts

Finding the right dance studio ensures your child enjoys a positive, enriching dance experience. By evaluating instructor qualifications, class structure, safety, communication, and cost factors, you can choose a studio that aligns with your child’s interests and your family’s expectations.

Ready to locate the perfect dance studio for you or your dancer? Click on the “Find Dance Studios” tab to begin your search by location, dance styles, ability levels, and age ranges!

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