So Many Dance Studios…How to select the right one for your child
Even though I have owned and directed a children’s dance studio for nearly 30 years, I was a “dance Mom” long before that. Moving across the country with corporate America, I was challenged to find a new dance studio for my daughter every couple of years. Eventually I learned how to do a little research before selecting a studio for my dance-loving daughter. I am always asking new clients why and how they chose my studio for their child. Most folks have said they were referred by a trusted friend who had or has a child in attendance at Extravadance but, more often these days I am seeing that parents are searching online for their children’s dance education. While a good web site is a plus, knowing the right things to look for helps tremendously. You should call the studio and ask questions and the person answering should be happy to help you or should get the person you need to speak with if available. If they are not available, leave a message and expect a call back. Find out about touring the facility – a must before your child’s first class. When browsing the web site, be sure to check the staff page. Review teacher’s dance education and experience. Will your child have opportunities to continue their dance education all the way through high school and is there an option for competition dance should they decide to give that a try or, will they have the option of taking advanced, non-competitive classes. Ask or read about security and background checks for staff. Are children supervised and protected from the outside while they are at dance? Is there a person that greets students and dismisses them to a parent or guardian? Is there a limit on class size and does the teacher have an assistant? Do I have to sign a contract or what is the policy for withdrawal? As you can see, the list goes on. And then you must decide which is the most important – proximity to the studio, quality of dance instruction, positive atmosphere, schedule of classes…some or all the above. Never trade quality for convenience. A few more driving minutes or a bit higher tuition are worth getting something better for your child. Most of all, you want your child to have a positive learning experience that makes them happy and promotes their self-confidence. This is what the staff at Extravadance &Tumble strives to instill in all our students! Please consider yourselves invited to visit us and learn more about how to become a dancer at Extravadance & Tumble!
By Sara Walser, Owner/Director, Extravadance & Tumble