Etiquette 101: 10 dance class dance class rules you should follow

New students invariably show up to dance class without realizing there is a standard dance class etiquette. Not to worry because Dance to EvOLvE is here to help! Read on to discover everything you need to know about dance class etiquette…

Arrive on time for dance class

When dancers arrive on time it allows them to get settled and focused, so they do not enter the class in a whirlwind. Often when parents bring their little ones to class late, the child feels overwhelmed. This is because they don’t have time to get used to their surroundings.

We have seen the most easy-going kids have a meltdown just because they were rushed into their dance class late. What’s more, arriving in a timely fashion shows respect to your dance teacher.

When dancers show up late, it is disruptive to everyone. Teachers almost always start their class off with a warm-up. Without this time, your dancer may have more trouble staying focused and engaged.

Sure sometimes it is challenging to arrive on time given our busy, modern lives. However, the importance of your little one having a chance to settle in can’t be stressed enough.  You wouldn’t want your dancer to confuse fun and exciting new environment with an overwhelming one just because they did not have enough time to get used to it.

Entering the dance class

Dancers should wait outside the classroom until the teacher invites students in to begin dance class. It is challenging for the dance teacher when children are running around the room, while the teacher is trying to set-up for their next dance class or talk with parents.  The teacher needs an appropriate amount of time for preparation so they can teach the next class well.

Dance studios dress code

Many dance studios have a dress code so that kids aren’t coming in with distracting clothing. Often, young dancers show up in party dresses, costumes, or jewelry. As fun as that is, it can be very distracting to everyone in the room. Dance attire is flexible and clingy to show the dancer’s lines while giving them the ability to move as much as they can. The appropriate dance shoes make a big difference too! When parents send their dancer with the wrong shoes, it can create safety issues, hinder movement, or cause discomfort. Your dancer will have plenty of time to practice their new dance moves in their favorite party dresses and costumes, OUTSIDE of the studio.

Talking in dance classes

With an experienced dance teacher, time should be given to the dancers to talk to help cut down on disruptive talking while the lesson is going on. In children’s dance classes, kids begin to learn that they should be quiet unless their teacher is asking them to speak or it is an unstructured time of the dance class.

Water breaks in dance classes

Many teachers give about one water break per hour in children’s dance classes. Especially if the class is high energy or if it is hot. Some teachers do not give any water breaks in young ballet/tap dance classes for kids if the dancers are in a more mellow environment. When children start asking for a water break frequently, that means they are losing focus. Dance classes run much more smoothly when dancers know to wait for their teacher to give them a break rather than interrupting. Parents should not be interrupting the class to give their dancer water unless the teacher asks them to. It can be very disruptive and make other young dancers want their parents to do the same. You can always send your dancer with a water bottle if needed.

Washroom breaks in dance classes

Dancers should go to the washroom before dance class starts, just like they do in school. It is especially difficult for a teacher if a child needs to go to the washroom and their parent has already dropped them off. The teacher then gets stuck with interrupting his or her whole class for one child who needs to be excused.

Parent involvement during dance classes

Parents should not be entering the class without being asked by the teacher or giving comments/feedback to their dancers during it. It can be very distracting to the student and affect their attitude. Let your teacher teach and let your dancer focus on one adult at a time. When there are too many cooks in the kitchen, things don’t run smoothly. If you have any suggestions, questions, or comments, please talk to your teacher or dancer after the dance class.

Parents stay outside the dance classes

Some younger dance classes ask that parents stay in the room and participate while others ask that you stay out. This is really about the developmental stage of the child. When kids are under 3 years old, it is very beneficial to have parents in the room helping as needed. When kids are 3 or older, they tend to focus and have better attitudes when parents watch from a distance. Please respect your teacher’s rules if you register for his or her kids’ dance class. Explain to your dancer in advance that they are in a big kids’ class and tell them where you will be. This way, they won’t get any surprises and will feel more comfortable knowing where you are.

Distractions in dance classes

Dancers should not be bringing anything into a dance class that will be distracting to the learning environment such as toys or accessories.  These only end up causing more problems and sometimes tears if the teacher has to take them away from the dancer.

Thanking your teacher after dance classes

It is a tradition in dance class (all ages!) to thank your teacher after class for giving you their knowledge and energy. It is a big sign of respect and teaches kids that dancing is a privilege that they should be grateful to learn.

The good news is that kid’s dance classes are great for teaching kids etiquette! These manners go a long way throughout the rest of their lives and should be reinforced at home. The more respectful everyone is in class, the easier it is to learn and have a good time. Talk to your dancer about these topics and ask your dance teacher for feedback if you have any questions. We hope these tips helped. Any questions or comments, please let us know below. We look forward to hearing from you.