If you have a young child enrolled in dance classes, you might wonder how to provide the best support. There are many ways for parents to help their tiny dancers, all of which motivate children to perfect their form, acquire different skills, and express themselves creatively. Here are some tips to keep in mind. 

How Can I Provide Extra Support for My Child in Dance Class? 

1. Ensure They Eat Well & Get Enough Rest

Provide healthy meals for your child that give them the nutrients they need to thrive, such as protein-based dishes that build and maintain muscle and provide energy. Processed, high-fat, and sugary foods can make your child feel sluggish and unfocused. Also, make certain they get eight to nine hours of sleep every night, so they feel rested, energized, and ready to dance. 

2. Emphasize Proper Posture

Gently correct your child’s posture whenever you notice them slumping their shoulders. Healthy posture where the shoulders are back, the abdominal muscles are engaged, and the head is up contributes to proper dance form, as it is challenging to create beautiful lines and achieve the right positions otherwise. Talk about how standing straight helps with dance classes, among other benefits, such as avoiding shoulder and back pain. 

3. Concentrate on Their Strengths

Tell your child how proud you are of their latest class achievement, such as successfully completing a complex move they previously struggled with. Even if your child is not progressing at the rate you hoped, you can talk about what they do well, like cartwheels and splits. Discuss non-dance-related strengths you are happy about, too; for example, if your child always helps fellow dancers learn new moves, mention what a compassionate and kind person the young one is. 

4. Listen, Don’t Push 

Allow your child to express any frustrations or pressure they feel as a dancer. Whether you are a dancer as well or not, you can make comments like, “I understand what you are going through. I felt the same way before my first gymnastics competition when I was your age, and I found taking deep breaths helpful.” Never push your child to dance or compete if they need a break or want to explore other interests. Instead, you can make “deals,” such as saying, “Okay, let’s take a six-month break from dance class and see where we are then.”

The dance classes at RAD Dance Arts Academy provide welcoming, supportive atmospheres for children ages 18 months and up. The Greenville, TX-based dance studio offers a range of class options, including jazz, hip hop, and ballet, to help kids discover their favorite style. Call (903) 440-6355 with questions or enroll online. Get the latest studio updates on Facebook.