Why is the Dress Code Important?

It’s a common question to hear from dance parents and students alike: What purpose does the dress code actually serve?  We’re glad you asked! Studio 56 Dance Center’s dress code was established for a few very important reasons:

  • Safety
    • The number one factor in establishing a dress code is for all students’ safety in class.  A basic leotard and tights, along with hair pulled back and the appropriate shoes, ensures that there are no extraneous clothes or jewelry that can become hazardous.  The dress code also helps teachers see that students are using the right muscles and alignment in order to learn the correct movements in class. 
  • Modesty
    • At Studio 56 Dance Center, we want every student to feel good about trying his or her best in class.  Following the dress code helps us make sure that everyone is appropriately covered … but not so covered that their movement is restricted!  We know that kids can sometimes feel self-conscious, and we want to encourage their confidence by helping them feel comfortable with what they wear in the studio.
  • Respect
    • A dress code is one way students show respect for their peers and their teachers.  It demonstrates an understanding of how a dance class operates, with minimal distractions and the ability to move easily for any combination of steps or choreography.  It shows that the students are prepared to learn and are willing to save their fashion statements for outside of class.
  • Practicality
    • Because leotards and tights also often serve as a versatile base layer for costuming, it makes sense that students become accustomed to them during class time.  Just as swimmers wear swimsuits and basketball players wear jerseys, dancers wear leotards and tights to have the freedom of movement required to practice correctly and efficiently.

Everyone benefits with the dress code in place: dancers can learn comfortably and instructors can teach efficiently!  At Studio 56 Dance Center, we take pride in our dress code and are happy to help you with questions at any time.

Beating the “Back-to-School” Blues

“But I’m too tired!” 

It’s that time of year again!  School is back in session and after-school activities abound, meaning “I’m too tired” can become a frequent refrain from the backseat of your car.

It’s not uncommon for us to hear about young dancers who fall asleep on the way to class during the first month or so of school.  Getting used to a new schedule is not easy!  Some children won’t be shy about stating how tired they are after school is out; others just feel a little grouchy by the time dance class rolls around.  

What can you do to help turn this feeling around (and end your own exasperation)?  In our experience at Studio 56 Dance Center, the suggestions included here have the potential to completely bust those back-to-school blues!

  • Create a fun “going-to-dance” ritual.  Whether it’s the music you jam out to on the way to class each week, or a family pizza night afterward, a special ritual can always perk up the day.  The routine built around attending dance class can have a tremendous impact on your child’s ability to adapt to their new schedule.
  • Offer gentle, consistent reassurance.  While we all know that logic doesn’t always fly with children, sometimes they feel better just knowing you understand and are there for them.  Remind them that feeling tired after school is normal, and that the feeling will get better over time. Let them know that you’re proud of them for making an effort.
  • Be prepared with water and snacks!  Children who are well-hydrated and who’ve had a light snack before dance class feel more refreshed and ready to move.  They have the energy they need to enjoy the experience and retain what they’ve learned.

If there is a “best part” about the back-to-school blues, it’s that they are temporary.  At Studio 56 Dance Center, we know that this period of time will soon become a distant memory, one replaced with the refrain of “Is it time to go to dance class yet?”  Consider yourself warned!

How To Make the Most Out of Your Child’s Classroom Experience.

Dance lessons can be an awesome way to encourage your child’s personal growth!  At Studio 56 Dance Center, we’re not just teaching dance steps in our classrooms—we’re developing curious, compassionate young leaders and equipping them for success.   

We know that it can be a challenge sometimes to know what to do to offer support and encouragement for your dancer—especially if you are still new to the world of dance!  Here are four of our best tips for making the most out of your child’s class experience at Studio 56 Dance Center:

  1.  Talk about dance at home
    • Although many of our young dancers take just one or two classes per week, dance is usually on their minds every day!  Read dance books together or listen to music and try some dance moves in the living room.  This helps keep your child’s mind engaged about dance in an extra-fun way—because they can share it with you!
  2. Ask your child to teach you what they are learning
    • Since dance lessons are built on structure and repetition, teaching someone else can be a fun way to practice.  Even if your child is still working on remembering their steps, this can help exercise their memory!  (Plus, it can be pretty cute.)
  3. Find out what your child likes best about class, or what they find challenging
    • Gain insight into what your child loves about dance—and what they think is hard—by asking them about their class.  Do they have a favorite step?  Have they made some new friends?  What do they like about their teacher?  These answers can help you understand what your child’s experience is like.
  4. Voice your support
    • The way you praise your child can be very useful in helping them get the most out of dance class!  Use phrases like, “I love watching you dance!” or “I can tell you’ve been working hard.” or “Did you try your best?  That’s what’s most important.”  Your child’s confidence and enthusiasm will continue to grow with this kind of encouragement at home and at class.

We hope these four tips come in handy as your child progresses through our dance season and of course, we’re always happy to help with any class curriculum or programming questions you might have.  We’re so thankful you’ve chosen Studio 56 Dance Center for your child’s education in dance!