All dance studios should aim to promote a positive, welcoming environment to motivate students to do their best and have a great time.
To put your mind at rest about dance studios and learning to dance, here are some myths and false ideas busted.
Myth #1: Dance teachers are demanding.
Many dance teachers will push hard to help their students achieve and keep progressing. They love to nurture their development and celebrate the many achievements, of their students along the way.
Dance teachers are passionate about dance and want to share their love for this beautiful art form.
Dance is a disciplined Art form and requires hard work and a consistent approach in order to progress and reach personal potential. Nothing pleases a teacher more than to have their students try hard and reach for goals and towards their dreams.
Myth #2 Other dance parents are pushy.
Most parents are caring and loving. Their main motivation is for their child to have fun, make new friends, while learning a skill.
Any parent who wants the best for their child should carefully choose a dance school based on the professionalism and expertise of the teachers and of the organisation, then step back and watch their child develop at their own pace, building life skills and confidence in order to thrive.
Wanting the best for your child is normal so make sure you get all the information you need to feel satisfied that your child is in the best environment for them to thrive then encourage and enjoy the journey with your child.
Myth #3 Kids who dance don’t do anything else
Often, kids who enjoy dancing are involved in plenty of other activities. Even for those truly obsessed with dance, learning gymnastics and swimming and musical instruments are all beneficial practices. It would be very rare to find a child whose only extracurricular activity is dance.
Learning to dance often improves academic results, develops problem solving skills, alongside the ability to focus, be disciplined, work consistently and cooperate well with others.
The only time you may find your child wishes to focus more on their dance lessons, is in the leadup to a performance or exam, when extra rehearsals may be scheduled to allow them to be adequately prepared. This is usually an exciting time for them and often the highlight of their year, where they get to perform for others.
Myth #4 Not everyone can learn to dance and is able to move in time with music
Everyone is born able to dance rhythmically and move in time to music. When a child hears music they usually dance spontaneously, with natural coordination, joy and no inhibitions.
If not encouraged from a young age and nurtured and developed by good teachers, dance can be harder to pick up later. Everyone should be encouraged to express themselves and experience the joy of dance at any age. It is so good for the body, the brain and the spirit.
It is never too late to learn to dance in some form or other, so start now and find what suits you best. You will be so pleased you did.
Myth #5 Dancers don’t eat well
If dancers don’t eat well, they won’t be fit and strong. Dancing requires strength, stamina and a very good general fitness level. This means eating a nutrient-rich and having a balanced diet is a necessity, to be able to dance well and perform at their best. Students need to be well-fed so they have the energy and the brain power, they need for all their lessons and performances.
Myth #6 Dancers are very competitive
As with many other competitive industries, like sporting groups, dancers train and do most of their work in an ensemble. When working closely with a small group of people, companies and dance troupes are often like close-knit families. Children who learn to dance together form strong friendships which can last for life. Being competitive in a nurturing environment, helps dancers to learn from each other and work towards their own goals, while being supported in a group. Friendly competitiveness is healthy and encourages everyone to do their best.
Myth #7 You have to be gifted to dance
Dance is an art form but all people have danced since the dawn of time. Everyone can learn to dance. Dance is about passion, rhythm and fun and it is for absolutely everyone.
If you want to, you should dance!
