At the end of any session of dance classes, students show off their skills and what they have learned with a recital. For many dancers, this is the highlight of the year, serving as a culmination of their hard work and dedication. Other dancers might feel apprehensive about the performance and unsure about what to expect. In either case, parents can support their children by helping them prepare for the show and calming their nerves. Here are some helpful tips on how you can make sure everything goes smoothly. 

How Parents Can Support Children Before a Dance Recital 

1. Encourage Them to Practice

Attending dance classes is important to getting ready for a recital. Make it a priority to get your child to all of their dance classes on time, and that they are prepared to focus during that time. Encourage them to practice at home as well, so they can become more confident with the routines. Ask the instructor if there is a music or video recording your child can use at home and serve as an audience when asked. 

2. Do a Hair and Makeup Trial Run

Don't wait until the dress rehearsal to try on costumes or attempt the required hairstyle or makeup. A few days before the show, do a trial run so you can check costume fit and make adjustments and ensure you can recreate the correct hair and makeup look. This way, you have time to acquire a more suitable shade of lipstick, for example, or know that you need to pack plenty of hairpins on the recital day. 

3. Pack the Show Bag the Night Before 

The night before the performance, prepare a bag with everything your child needs for the performance, including their costume, shoes, tights, makeup, and hair accessories. Label everything that belongs to your child so nothing is lost in the backstage frenzy. It's better to be overprepared, so pack extras of anything that could run out or get lost, like hairpins, hairspray, and elastics.

4. Make it Special 

After months of dance classes, your child has a lot to be proud of. Acknowledge their achievement by making the day special for them by bringing them flowers after the show, leaving an encouraging note in the dance bag, or planning a special outing after the show. Focus on the positive — even if something goes wrong during the performance — and share how proud you are as you celebrate their accomplishments. 

From toddlers to teens, children can learn a variety of dance styles at Stage Door Studios in Sarasota, FL. For over 15 years, this studio has offered dance classes in ballet, jazz, and hip-hop, as well as a theater program. Dancers can develop their skills in an encouraging and friendly environment at affordable tuition rates. The studio also offers birthday parties. To enroll in a free trial class, call (941) 921-1600 or visit them online to see a full class schedule and descriptions.