Everything You Need to Know as a Dance Parent: A Comprehensive Guide

The first step in getting your child involved in dance is to choose the right dance class. There are many different types of dance classes available, so it is important to find one that is a good fit for your child's age, interests, and abilities.

Here are a few things to consider when choosing a dance class:

• Age: Dance classes are typically divided into different age groups. This is because the types of dance taught and the level of difficulty vary depending on the age of the students.
• Interests: There are many different styles of dance, so it is important to choose a class that your child is interested in. If your child is not interested in the class, they are less likely to stick with it.
• Abilities: It is important to choose a dance class that is appropriate for your child's abilities. If the class is too difficult, your child may become discouraged. If the class is too easy, your child may not be challenged enough.

Once you have considered these factors, you can start to narrow down your options. You can ask friends for recommendations, read online reviews, or visit different dance studios to observe classes.

5 Things Every Dance Parent Should Know!

by Eden Davies

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Once you have chosen a dance class, it is important to attend regularly. Consistency is key to progress in dance. If your child misses classes, they will fall behind and may have difficulty catching up.

It is also important to be supportive of your child's dance teacher. The teacher is there to help your child learn and grow. Be respectful of their authority and follow their instructions.

Dance competitions can be a great way for your child to showcase their skills and gain experience. However, it is important to remember that competitions are not for everyone. If your child is not interested in competing, or if they are not ready, do not pressure them to participate.

If you do decide to enter your child in a dance competition, be sure to do your research and choose a competition that is appropriate for their age and skill level. It is also important to be aware of the costs involved in competing, such as entry fees, travel expenses, and costumes.

Dance costumes can be expensive, but they are an important part of the dance experience. Costumes help dancers to get into character and perform their best. If you are on a budget, there are many ways to save money on dance costumes. You can buy used costumes, rent costumes, or make your own costumes.

Dance etiquette is important for both dancers and parents. Here are a few tips:

• Be on time for class and rehearsals.
• Be respectful of the teacher and other students.
• Do not talk during class or rehearsals.
• Dress appropriately for class and rehearsals.
• Be supportive of your child's dance goals.

Dance injuries are common, but they can be prevented. Here are a few tips to help prevent dance injuries:

• Warm up properly before class and rehearsals.
• Stretch regularly.
• Wear appropriate shoes and clothing.
• Listen to your body and take breaks when you need them.
• See a doctor or physical therapist if you are injured.

Dance vocabulary can be confusing, but it is important to learn the basics. Here are a few common dance terms:

• Barre: A long, horizontal bar used for support in ballet and other dance styles.
• Chassé: A step in which the dancer slides one foot forward or to the side, bringing the other foot next to it.
• Grand jeté: A jump in which the dancer leaps into the air and extends one leg forward or to the side.
• Pirouette: A turn on one leg.
• Plié: A bend of the knees.

Dance terminology can be confusing, but it is important to learn the basics. Here are a few common dance terms:

• Allegro: Fast and lively.
• Adagio: Slow and graceful.
• Balancé: A rocking motion from side to side.
• Bourrée: A step in which the dancer slides one foot forward or to the side, bringing the other foot next to it.
• Chassé: A step in which the dancer slides one foot forward or to the side, bringing the other foot next to it.
• Développé: A movement in which the dancer extends one leg forward or to the side.
• Échappé: A step in which the dancer steps forward or to the side, with the other foot following.
• Frappé: A step in which the dancer strikes the floor with the ball of the foot.
• Jeté: A jump in which the dancer leaps into the air and extends one leg forward or to the side.
• Pas de deux: A dance for two people.
• Pirouette: A turn on one leg.
• Plié: A bend of the knees.
• Relevé: A rise up onto the toes.
• Sauté: A jump.
• Tendu: A stretch of the leg.

Dance lingo can be confusing, but it is important to learn the basics. Here are a few common dance terms:

• Backstage: The area behind the stage where dancers warm up and wait for their cue to perform.
• Call: The music that cues dancers to perform a certain step or sequence.
• Center stage: The middle of the stage.
• Choreography: The arrangement of dance steps and sequences.
• Company: A group of dancers who perform together.
• Corps de ballet: The group of dancers who form the background of a ballet.
• Dress rehearsal: The final rehearsal before a performance.
• Encore: An additional performance given after a show has ended.
• House: The theater where a dance performance is taking place.
• Leading: The male dancer who partners with a female dancer in a pas de deux.
• Lighting: The arrangement of lights used to create a desired effect on stage.
• Matinee: A performance that takes place in the afternoon.
• Opening night: The first night of a dance performance.
• Overture: The music that opens a dance performance.
• Premiere: The first performance of a new dance work.
• Proscenium: The arch that separates the stage from the audience.
• Scenery: The painted backdrops and other set pieces used in a dance performance.
• Solo: A dance performed by one dancer.
• Stage manager: The person who is responsible for the smooth running of a dance performance.
• Tour: A series of performances given in different cities or countries.

5 Things Every Dance Parent Should Know!

by Eden Davies

4.5 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	1702 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	8 pages
Lending	:	Enabled

FREE