What to Know About Taking Multiple Dance Classes
One of the most common questions from dance parents is, “Should my child take more than one dance class?” There’s no set answer, but here are things to consider to help you answer the question.
Start With One Class
Most young children start by taking one class, which introduces them to the format and the expectations of listening to a teacher and following instructions. It doesn’t matter what kind of dance is taught at the first class because the focus is on introducing children to music and movement and the creative world of dance. Classes for younger children tend to be shorter because their attention span is shorter and they may run out of energy faster. One class may be enough for a two-year-old to five-year-old, but there isn’t anything wrong with adding another weekly class at that age. After they understand the basic format of a dance class and are able to participate and listen, they can benefit from another weekly class if they enjoy their first class.
Adding More Classes for Older Children
Once a child has been dancing for a few years, usually around age six or seven, they can add another weekly class to expand their dance knowledge and experience. Many types of dance complement each other, such as ballet and jazz. A child who takes both classes can expand their skills in both areas because they teach coordinating skills. Taking different styles of dance classes can expand their knowledge and help them develop into a better all-around dancer much faster than they would by only taking one class at a time.
Introducing children to multiple styles of dance also helps them learn to move their body in different ways and develops different muscle groups. A child might not know they are skilled or interested in ballroom or lyrical dance, for example, if they didn’t add an additional class in that area.
Once a child is well established in dance and has a relatively high skill level, they can continue to add additional classes. Each additional class adds to their repertoire and increases their skill level and ability to learn and retain choreography. Of course, older children can also understand the time commitment that comes with additional dance classes and should make the decision based on their dance goals and interest levels.
Other Considerations
However, that’s not to say that every child needs to take multiple dance classes a week. There are other considerations, including the interest level of the child. Some children are only interested in one type of dance or enjoy dance but not enough to do it every day. Other children and families prefer to expose their children to a variety of activities and sports and put their children in activities besides dance.
There are also considerations about attention span and interest. Don’t push a child beyond their interest level. If your child isn’t asking for additional dance classes or doesn’t seem interested in going to more than one class, it’s usually best to stick with a single class. It’s better to have your child enjoy one class than to push them into multiple classes and have them lose interest. Each child is different, so consider your child’s interest level and schedule before making the decision. If needed, consult with the dance teacher to get their opinion about what would be best for your child.
Dance for kids is a great outlet for children of all ages. Knowing when to take multiple dance classes for children is a personal choice for each child and family but can lead to many great benefits in their physical activity and skills. Fusion offers discounts for taking multiple classes as well as an unlimited rate.