Kids On Their Toes

When is the right time to enroll your child in dance class?

By Angelina “Joy” Emanuele

Toddlers love to move, stretch and jump. Teachers can introduce kids to new ways of moving their little bodies in entertaining and constructive ways. All forms of dance, gymnastics and creative movement can be very beneficial. Kids should be introduced to exercise and physical activities as early as possible. It might take a little more time running around or cost a little more money, but in the long run it can pay off. Introducing your children to dance is one of the greatest gifts you can ever give them. Dance promotes discipline, coordination, memory, flexibility, strength, line, grace and stamina. Performing builds positive self-esteem, confidence, helps with other sports and is just great fun. All kids are capable of relating and understanding most basic techniques that are shown to them and demonstrated properly. The vocabulary they learn through dance can help them express themselves through movement and naturally incorporate it into their lives so they can grow up to be healthy, active, productive adu
Signing your child up in dance class as soon as possible can be a great thing for him/her. Look for opportunities that your child’s school may offer in classes and after-school programs. Many recreation centers also offer classes at very affordable rates.
As long as children can listen and stay focused, no age is too young to get them started in dance. Of course, forcing children into any activity is never healthy. It’s important to observe how they respond. Most places and programs offer a trial class. This way, you can “check it out” and see how your child responds to dance.
For the real little ones, Mommy/Daddy and Me classes can be a great way to spend quality time with your children. You can even practice with them at home. Keep in mind that dancing is a great activity for adults too. It can help parents release tension, so let go and have fun! After all, we are all little kids at heart.
If you notice that your child really shows an interest in a specific style of dance, it’s wise to invest in a class or school that focuses on that style, such as ballet, hip-hop, jazz or gymnastics. In my classes, I like to introduce kids to all of the above to keep the class interesting so they don’t get bored. Kids’ attention span is about 45 minutes, so teachers always have to keep it fresh. As children get older and more serious, the length and amount of classes per week may increase. Again, it might mean more running around for you, but if your child is fortunate to find something he or she loves to do, it’s worth the extra time and money. I’m the oldest of five kids and my parents ran around for all of us (ballet, jazz, soccer, gymnastics, music, football, cricket). I don’t know how they did it, but I am so grateful because I am now blessed to be making a living doing what I love.
Try to find a teacher who inspires and has a true love and passion for what he or she teaches. It might be difficult, but be persistent because he/she is out there! And these days, especially, teachers should be positive role models. The classroom, no matter what class it is, should be a sacred place, after the home, to install the seeds of success. Remember the Four Ds: Discipline, Determination, Dedication and Desire. Dance class can help your child conquer all four.