4 THINGS EVERY PARENT SHOULD KNOW BEFORE CHOOSING A DANCE STUDIO
1. WHAT TYPE OF DANCE FLOOR IS USED?
Dance is a very physical activity that requires a lot of jumping, which can put stress on bones and joints. Most dance footwear does not provide any cushioning or support, so the shock of dance movement can place a lot of pressure on the knees and back of a dancer. The best way to prevent against potential injury is by choosing a studio with a professional “floating floor”. A floating floor is a dance floor that rests on a system of high-density foam, to absorb the shock of jumping. A high-density foam base is superior to a “sprung” floor, which usually consists of a wood structure built on the regular floor.The top layer of the dance floor is also an important factor. A vinyl composite “marley” floor is accepted worldwide as the best surface layer for recreational to professional dance. Facilities such as the Royal Winnipeg Ballet, the Royal Academy of Dance in London, England, and Riverdance - The Touring Show, all use marley floors as their dance surface. A marley floor allows dancers to slide, with a degree of “controlled slip, but is not slippery so there is less risk of slips and falls. Very few studios use professional marley floors because of the expense involved, and usually opt for a regular floor tile for a studio floor.
All of our studio locations have floating floors that have over 700 high density foam blocks under the floor surface and a marley top surface that is imported from England. Our special floors help reduce the risk of injuries and allow students to dance longer without getting tired.
2. WHAT IS THE SIZE OF THE CLASS?
If the dance class has fewer students in it each child will receive more personalized attention, learn more and have more fun. With younger students it is easier for a teacher to maintain control over the class and make sure each student understands the concepts and instructions. Our smaller class sizes make sure that no fundamental concepts are being missed. A smaller class size also allows our teachers to ensure that students are not developing bad habits or improper technique.
Our studio limits all of our classes (ages 6 and up) to a maximum of just 15 students per class. With our kindergarten dance classes (ages 3 - 5) we limit all of our classes to a maximum of just 10 students per class.
3. WHAT ARE THE “EXTRAS” REQUIRED FOR THE YEAR END SHOW?
Most studios put on a year end show in a professional theatre. Students that perform in the show must have a costume for their dance number. Some studios may require parents to sew their child’s costumes, or pay extra and the parents must find their own seamstress to do the sewing. This can be inconvenient and frustrating for parents who are busy or can’t sew. Most studios also require parents to purchase tickets for the recital performance night.
Our studios use our own professional seamstress to sew and alter the costumes, so parents do not have to worry about any costume hassles. Our studio also gives each parent 2 free tickets for our year-end show. This way you as a parent will not be faced with any extra work or expenses.
4. CAN I GET IMMEDIATE ASSISTANCE AND CUSTOMER SERVICE?
In many studios the teacher or the studio owner conducts classes and does the administration. By trying to do two jobs at once, the class may suffer as the teacher has to use class time for customer service issues, or the studio may have no customer service available if the teacher is in a class. To have a good experience it is important to choose a studio that can assist you with details like costumes or schedules, even if a teacher is occupied in a class. Our studios have office staff on hand during all regular class times, so you can get immediate assistance.
HOW TO CHOOSE A DANCE STUDIO FOR YOUR CHILD
First, search web sites. Most will have a schedule and general information. Make sure to take note of the faculty, then, call ahead to arrange a visit. Most reputable schools will invite you to tour the studios. Are classes fitness based, inspiring and enriching? Arrive early, so you can meet the teacher. You may wish to observe with your child. Notice... is the studio clean, light and airy? Do the studios have mirrors, barres, and sound systems? The studio floors should be "Marley" or wood, never concrete. Is the staff friendly, eager to answer your questions and accommodating? Is parking available?
Second, note the interaction of the children with the teacher. Are students encouraged in a positive manner? Are they taught to understand music? Are they working together as a team as well as individually? Are they dancing for enjoyment and freedom of expression? Is dance terminology used? Are there performing opportunities?
Dance wear and proper, ballet, tap or jazz shoes should be required. Regulation colors may also be part of the dress code, for a more consistent look. Are multiple dance styles offered? Is ballet stressed as a fundamental part of a dancer’s training? Are there multiple levels of classes and workshops offered at the more advanced levels?
Third, inquire about the cost of tuition. Many people look for the least expensive classes, without comparing the quality of the programs. Most recreational-type classes, offered at recreation facilities are introductory classes at best. They may cost less than that of a private dance studio, but are usually taught by less experienced teachers.
Fourth, and perhaps most important, consider the experience, training and teaching background of the faculty. Also take note of professional training and performance history. Also consider that a professional dancer is NOT ALWAYS the best teacher. Rather, someone who loves children and desires to share that love will be more patient and attentive as a teacher.
Finally, when entrusting your child’s welfare to a private teacher, choose a studio that inspires the children, conducts orderly classes as well as has a strong emphasis on learning proper technique. Unfortunately, low standards still exist among some teachers. With more education, consumers can help raise the standards, by making the best possible choices when deciding on a Dance Studio.
First, search web sites. Most will have a schedule and general information. Make sure to take note of the faculty, then, call ahead to arrange a visit. Most reputable schools will invite you to tour the studios. Are classes fitness based, inspiring and enriching? Arrive early, so you can meet the teacher. You may wish to observe with your child. Notice... is the studio clean, light and airy? Do the studios have mirrors, barres, and sound systems? The studio floors should be "Marley" or wood, never concrete. Is the staff friendly, eager to answer your questions and accommodating? Is parking available?
Second, note the interaction of the children with the teacher. Are students encouraged in a positive manner? Are they taught to understand music? Are they working together as a team as well as individually? Are they dancing for enjoyment and freedom of expression? Is dance terminology used? Are there performing opportunities?
Dance wear and proper, ballet, tap or jazz shoes should be required. Regulation colors may also be part of the dress code, for a more consistent look. Are multiple dance styles offered? Is ballet stressed as a fundamental part of a dancer’s training? Are there multiple levels of classes and workshops offered at the more advanced levels?
Third, inquire about the cost of tuition. Many people look for the least expensive classes, without comparing the quality of the programs. Most recreational-type classes, offered at recreation facilities are introductory classes at best. They may cost less than that of a private dance studio, but are usually taught by less experienced teachers.
Fourth, and perhaps most important, consider the experience, training and teaching background of the faculty. Also take note of professional training and performance history. Also consider that a professional dancer is NOT ALWAYS the best teacher. Rather, someone who loves children and desires to share that love will be more patient and attentive as a teacher.
Finally, when entrusting your child’s welfare to a private teacher, choose a studio that inspires the children, conducts orderly classes as well as has a strong emphasis on learning proper technique. Unfortunately, low standards still exist among some teachers. With more education, consumers can help raise the standards, by making the best possible choices when deciding on a Dance Studio.