5 Things Parents Should Know Before Choosing a Studio

If most dance studios seem to have qualified, friendly teachers, experience teaching children, and a big show at the end of the year, aren't they all pretty much the same? Does it really matter which place you decide to enroll at? Yes. There are five main things that can make a huge difference in the quality of instruction your child receives, the amount of extra work hassles the parents must deal with and the overall enjoyment and satisfaction of being involved with a dance program. The following guidelines are designed to help you in your decision making process:
 

1. Is it a professional environment?

When choosing a studio, it is important to look for a place that is specifically designed for dance instruction and all of its needs. The facility should have classrooms with the appropriate floors, mirrors, waiting & dressing rooms, observation windows, professional teaching staff, as well as a fully operational office. Observation windows are an important tool for the parents, teachers, and students. Parents are able to view their child's progress as well as observe any possible disciplinary issues. Staff should consist of all adult professionals that either have their degrees or completing their degrees in dance, professional performing experience, or extensive backgrounds in the teaching field.

2. What is the size of the class?

If a dance class has fewer students in it, each child will receive more personalize attention, learn more, and have more fun! With younger students it is easier for a teacher to maintain control over the class and make sure each student understands the concepts and instructions. Smaller class sizes make sure that no fundamental concepts are being missed. A smaller size allows teachers to ensure that the students are not developing bad habits or improper technique.

3. Does it accommodate all types of students?

Some studios concentrate only on the naturally talented or competitive level training. Others offer training to all types of students ranging from the recreational to competitive and the pre-professional level. All children have the potential to learn the art of dance. Therefore, a studio should provide classes to all types of students in PreBallet/Tap, Classical Ballet, Tap, Jazz, Drill Team, Lyrical, Hip Hop, Contemporary, Adult Dance, and Competitive Dance. Classes should be available at all levels from beginner to advance.

4. Are there any extra fees for the recital?

Most studios put on an end of the year recital at a local Theatre. Students that perform in the show must have a costume for their dance number. Some studios may require parents to purchase a costume and pay a recital fee. The price can range from $100.00 to $300.00 and up depending on the amount of dance numbers your student is in. Most studios also require parents to purchase tickets for the recital performance night.

5. Can I get immediate assistance and customer service?

In many studios the teacher or the studio owner conducts classes and does the business administration. By trying to do two jobs at once, the class may suffer as the teacher has to use class time for customer service issues, or the studio may have no customer service available if the teacher is in a class. To have a good experience it is important to choose a studio that can assist you with the details like costumes or schedules, even if a teacher or owner is occupied.

Choosing a dance studio for your child or children is easy- but finding a quality dance studio to teach your child the precise techniques for dance is somewhat more difficult. But with a little research and forethought, you can find the right studio to help train your child in the proper way to dance!