Are you getting ready to enroll your child in their first ballet class? Exciting times are ahead, but we understand that some nerves about the unknown may be settling in as your little one delves into a new activity.
Ballet classes for beginners teach students about classical ballet technique, terminology, body alignment, posture, and coordination. Lessons often include warm-ups and stretches, basic center steps like pliés and tendus, across the floor exercises to work on coordination, and dance phrases that put it all together.
For more information on BalletCNJ's enrichment classes, click here.
To ensure that both you and your child are well-prepared for this new journey, here are 8 essential things to know before their first ballet class.
1. Attire is Key
Before stepping into the dance studio, make sure your child is dressed in the dress code. At BalletCNJ our dress code includes a leotard, tights, and ballet shoes. Dress codes are not only for aesthetics but also for practical reasons, the proper attire allows dancers to move freely and the tight fitting dress helps your instructor observe and correct your form easily. Additionally, don't forget to secure hair away from the face in a tight bun to avoid distractions. If your child is taking a trial class, they are not required to be in our dress code, but please make sure they are wearing form fitting clothes. This allows them to easily move around without restrictive clothing.
2. Arrival
Plan to arrive a few minutes early, ideally 5-10 minutes, to give your child time to change shoes, use the restroom, and get excited. This is also the perfect time for our Office Manager to show you around our facility and for you and your child to get a chance to meet the teacher so they can start to build trust.
3. Nerves
It is completely normal for your child to be nervous before beginning a new activity. Try to focus on positive new exciting things about the class and don't dwell on their nerves.
4. Embrace the Etiquette
Ballet classes come with their own set of etiquettes and traditions. Teach your child the importance of respecting their teacher, listening attentively, and following instructions. Encouraging good classroom behavior sets the stage for a positive learning experience.
5. Independence
Try to let your child be independent during class so they can be more successful. At BalletCNJ we usually do not allow parents to observe classes. We find that this distracts the students and affects their ability to listen and focus on the instructor and make new friends in class. We know for young ones it's hard to know when to let go, but we promise the more independent you allow your child to be, the more successful they will be making this new adjustment.
6. Positive Reinforcement and Practice at Home
Celebrate your child's efforts and achievements in ballet class, no matter how small. Positive reinforcement boosts their confidence and keeps them motivated to continue learning and growing as a dancer. To enhance your child's progress in ballet, encourage them to practice at home. Simple exercises like pliés and relevés can help reinforce what they learn in class and improve their technique over time.
7. Dismissal
At the end of class, teachers will often give dancers a sticker to reward them for their efforts & fantastic work. Students will then be dismissed back to their parents. At this time, the teacher will give you an update on how your child acclimated with the rest of the class and ensure if this is the correct level placement for them.
8. Have Fun!
Above all, remind your child to have fun during their ballet class. Dancing is a joyful experience that allows them to express themselves creatively. Encourage them to embrace the beauty of movement and enjoy the journey of learning ballet.
As your child prepares to take their first steps into this new special milestone, these 8 essential tips will help set the stage for a fulfilling and rewarding journey. By being prepared and informed, you can help nurture your child's love for dance and support their growth as a budding ballerina. Embracing the beauty of dance opens the door to a world of creativity, expression, and endless possibilities through ballet.
We love sharing dance our new families and we are happy to welcome you into our BalletCNJ dance family!
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BalletCNJ passionately offers a quality education for all ages. Our classes start at the age of 1.5 and continue all of the way up to 18. We offer classes in a variety of styles and levels.
For more information on our Enrichment Programs, or to schedule a Trial Class, click here or contact us at info@balletcnj.org | (609) 249-4066.
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