7 Tips For Dance Parents

While dancers may spend hours at the studio practicing on their skills, working on dances, and preparing for competitions, that doesn’t mean dance parents don’t have it hard as well. From turning into a chauffeur to helping out back stage, being a dance parent might as well be a full-time job. So we decided to provide some tips for all the dance parents out there to help both you and your dancer(s) have a great year.

1. Have a schedule

Make sure you know what time dance classes start. If your dancer(s) attend more than 1 studio, make sure you know what studio you’re going to.

2. Get to know the other dance parents

By becoming friends with other dance parents, you can rotate through who drives the kids to dance class. Plus, who doesn’t want more friends!?

3. Help out backstage

Check with your dance studio first, but if you can help your dancer(s) and others get ready or help out with a quick change, the dancers will thank you later. Plus, every dancer knows the best view is from backstage!

4. Drop off your dancer(s) early for dance class

You don’t have to drop them off an hour before class, but 10-15 minutes should be plenty of time for them to change (if needed), put on their dance shoes, and/or stretch before class.

5. Learn how to do hair and makeup

Now, as dancers get older, this may not be needed as much. But the younger the dancer, the more help they may need. This is where YouTube comes in handy.

6. Be prepared

Whether you pack extra snacks, add extra bobby pins, print out a schedule, or map out the fastest route to the dance studio, you can never be too prepared!

7. Be encouraging

Dancers are going to have days where they can't figure out timing, a dance move, or they find themselves comparing themselves to other dancers. Remind your dancer(s) that you’re there for them. 

We hope these tips help you work your way to being the best dance parent out there. Remember to be there for your dancer(s) and know they appreciate all the work you have done to get them when they are today.

Sources/Inspiration:

https://www.montereybayparent.com/articles/FamilyFun/how-to-be-a-good-dance-mom/ 

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By: AJ (Intern)