How to Choose the Right Dance Studio for Your Child
Finding the right dance studio for your child can be a meaningful journey, as dance offers countless benefits beyond technical skill like confidence, discipline, and creativity. But with so many studios to choose from, how do you find one that suits your child’s needs, interests, and personality? Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you make an informed decision.
Little Sheep walking off after their bow during SDC’s performance of ‘Sylvia’
1. Define Your Child's Dance Goals
The first step is understanding what you and your child hope to gain from the dance experience. Goals could range from social engagement and building confidence to exploring a long-term interest in dance or preparing for a career in dance. Clarifying these goals can guide you in choosing the type of studio environment that will best support your child’s aspirations. Studios can vary from recreational settings, where the focus is on fun and basic skills, to highly rigorous training facilities that emphasize technique or competition.
Intermediate dancers at SDC
Questions to ask yourself:
Does your child want to try dance as a fun extracurricular, or are they interested in training seriously?
What style(s) of dance is your child most interested in?
Do they want to perform or compete?
2. Research Dance Styles and Studio Offerings
Advanced Dancers in Contemporary class.
Each studio typically specializes in certain styles, such as ballet, jazz, hip-hop, contemporary, or tap. Some studios focus exclusively on one or two disciplines, while others provide a broader curriculum. If your child is interested in a specific style, look for studios that offer high-quality instruction in that genre.
Tips:
If your child is younger and unsure of their preference, choose a studio with a variety of beginner-level classes so they can try different styles. Ballet is often the foundation for many other styles so you can’t go wrong starting with ballet!
For children seriously interested in ballet, look for a studio that has a structured, progression-based curriculum.
3. Assess the Studio’s Teaching Approach and Environment
Each studio has its own teaching philosophy, and it’s crucial to find one that aligns with your values and your child’s needs. Some studios emphasize structure and discipline, others create a more relaxed, nurturing environment, and some embrace both ends of the spectrum. Observing a class or attending a trial class, if possible, can be helpful ways to gauge the vibe and see how teachers interact with students.
Considerations:
Does the studio foster a supportive, positive learning environment?
How does the studio handle discipline and feedback?
Are teachers attentive to individual students’ needs?
Bethany Joyce teaching Pre-Ballet at Susquehanna Dance Center
4. Evaluate Instructor Credentials and Experience
Instructors play a vital role in your child’s dance education, so it’s essential to choose a studio with skilled, experienced teachers who understand child development and correct technique. Look for instructors with professional dance experience or a solid educational background in dance. Many studios list their instructors’ credentials on their websites, which can give insight into their qualifications.
Questions to ask the studio:
What is the background and experience level of the instructors?
Are the teachers knowledgeable in child development and injury prevention?
Does the studio provide ongoing training for instructors to ensure they stay up-to-date with industry standards?
5. Look Into Class Sizes and Student-Teacher Ratios
Class size can significantly impact your child’s experience in dance. Smaller classes (approx. 10 students) often allow for more individualized attention, which can be crucial for younger or beginner dancers who need extra guidance. Try to observe a class in person if possible to see how engaged the students are.
6. Consider the Facility and Amenities
The physical environment of the studio is also an important factor. Dance training requires specific flooring to reduce the risk of injuries, so check if the studio has sprung floors or Marley flooring, which provide the necessary support and cushioning. Additionally, a clean and well-maintained facility can reflect the studio’s professionalism and commitment to quality.
Willow Donnachie teaching Advanced Ballet
7. Inquire About the Studio's Policies and Costs
Every studio operates with different policies, so it’s essential to review and understand them upfront. Policies might include guidelines for attendance, dress codes, payment schedules, performance requirements, and refund options. Additionally, look into the costs beyond just tuition—studios may have added fees for costumes, recitals, or competitions.
Questions to ask:
What are the total costs involved, including registration, costumes, and performances?
Are there clear policies regarding missed classes, payments, and class withdrawal?
Does the studio offer flexible payment plans or scholarships?
Golden Doe in ‘Sylvia’
8. Explore Performance and Progression Opportunities
Performance and progression opportunities are significant aspects of many dance programs. Some studios offer end-of-year recitals, which allow students to showcase their skills in a supportive environment. Some may offer yearly performances where dancers can demonstrate technical and artistic growth in a pre-professional atmosphere. Others may participate in competitions. Check if the studio offers options that align with your child’s goals and comfort level.
Considerations:
Are there opportunities for your child to perform?
How does the studio support student progress?
Is there a clear progression path for students who want to advance?
9. Take Into Account the Studio’s Culture and Community
Finding a studio with a positive, welcoming culture can make your child’s dance experience even more fulfilling. Studios that emphasize community-building, teamwork, and supportive values can make a lasting impact on young dancers. Consider speaking with other parents and families who attend the studio to get a sense of the community vibe.
Things to observe or ask about:
Does the studio foster a sense of teamwork and inclusivity?
What values does the studio promote in its classes?
Do students and families feel welcome and supported?
10. Trust Your Instincts
At the end of the day, trust your instincts and intuition! You know your child better than anyone, so trust your sense of whether a particular studio feels right. If a studio meets your criteria, feels warm and welcoming, and aligns with your family’s goals, it’s likely a great fit. Remember, dance should be a joyful and enriching experience, and finding the right studio can make all the difference.
