Maybe you watch your child dance around the living room, performing for close family and friends. Or perhaps they dance alone in their room, finding it most comfortable to express themselves in solace. Even if a child attends dance classes, they might still experience stage fright when a recital or performance nears. This fear and anxiety shouldn't prevent anyone from reaching their full potential. Here's a quick list of ways to help your child tap into their confidence to move, dance, and shine on any stage. 

How to Overcome Stage Fright

1. Practice 

A lot of anxieties and fears come from a lack of exposure. If your child is anxious about performing on a stage, they might just need some practice. Dance classes can feel like a performance, especially because other people are in the room. Enrolling your child can help them gain confidence, meet friends, and get the practice they need to be ready for a recital. 

Try putting music on at home, too. Whether they learn choreography in their dance classes or just want to make it up as they go, dancing in front of their parents, close family, or friends can help with the jitters. 

2. Talk It Through 

Having context can also help. Tell your child a story about when you overcame stage fright, or ask them where their fear is coming from. Having an understanding of what they're feeling can prompt a deeper conversation about how best to push past those fears based on their needs. 

Make sure to have a positive cadence and keep it light. If you're able to keep the idea of performing as fun and carefree, they'll start to adopt those emotions. 

3. Come Up With a Routine

Depending on what type of dance classes your child is enrolled in, consider buying a special tutu, hairtie, shoes, or other item that's special for performance days. You can call it their "lucky" addition to their outfit so they have an extra confidence boost on stage. It might also be helpful to encourage a breathing exercise, stretch, or calming routine that they can adopt before each recital in order to relax themselves. 

If you are considering dance classes for your child who struggles with stage fright, talk to the instructors at Suzanne's School of Dance in College Station, TX. This family-oriented, faith-based studio offers a variety of excellent instruction, including tap, ballet, and jazz dance classes in a safe and uplifting environment. The school specializes in serving beginners of all ages and training throughout Brazos County. To see their upcoming classes, visit them online. Call (979) 485-8277 to talk to a friendly team member.