Minute Masterclass Episode 118

Welcome to your one-minute masterclass. I’m Andrea Trench, founder of DiscoverDance and creator of the Foundations Course for Early Childhood Dance Educators and the DiscoverDance Experience Membership. Today we are answering the frequently asked question: my child cries on the way to dance class but seems to enjoy class once we arrive. What should I do? 

There could be many reasons why your child says they do not want to go to dance class. The first thing you should do is reach out to the teacher. By letting us know, we can evaluate the situation together and work towards a solution that is best for your child. In our experience, it’s usually not “going to dance class” that is the reason for the tears, especially if they enjoy dance once they get into class. Rather, it’s a change in routine. 

This could happen with a big move, a new baby in the family, starting school/daycare, or the simple fact that they are hungry or tired. The teacher will be able to evaluate the dancer in class to see if there are certain skills or concepts the child may be struggling with that could be causing the push back. After speaking together and deciding what could be causing the tears, a clearer understanding will appear, and a plan can be put into place. Open communication is key. For more information, to enroll in the Foundations Course, join the DiscoverDance Experience, or to find the text version of this minute masterclass, visit DiscoverDance.com.