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5 5 Things
Every Parent Should Know Before Choosing a Dance 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 5 main things that
can make a huge difference in the quality of instruction your child
receives, the amount of extra work and hassles the parents must deal
with and the overall enjoyment and satisfaction of being involved
with a dance program. Here are 5 things that every parent should
consider before deciding on a dance studio for their child.
1. What type of dance floor is used ?
Dance is a very physical activity that requires a lot of jumping,
which can put stress on bones and joints. Most dance footwear does
not provide any cushioning or support, so the shock of dance
movement can place a lot of pressure on the knees and back of a
dancer. The best way to prevent against potential injury is by
choosing a studio with a professional floor.
Our studios have Sprung floors with a top layer "marley" added to
it. A marley floor is a vinyl composite that is accepted worldwide
as the best surface layer for recreational to professional dance.
Facilities such as the Royal Winnipeg Ballet, the Royal Academy of
Dance in London, England, and Riverdance-the Touring Show, all use
marley floors as their dance surface. A marley floor allows dancers
to slide, with a degree of "controlled slip" but is not slippery so
there is less risk of falls. Very few studios use professional
marley floors because of the expense involved, and usually opt for a
regular floor tile for a studio floor.
2. What is the size of the class ?
A dance class that has fewer students in it allows each child to
receive more personalized attention, learn more and have more fun.
With younger students it is easier for a teacher to keep the child's
focus and make sure each student understands the concepts and
instructions. Our smaller class sizes make sure that no fundamental
concepts are being missed. A smaller class size also allows our
teachers to ensure that students are not developing improper
techniques.
NYCA limits all of our beginning classes (ages 7 and up) to a
maximum of just 12 students per class. With our younger students, we
limit the classes to a maximum of just 8 per class.
3. What are the "extras" required for the year end show ?
Most studios put on a year end show in a professional theatre.
Students that perform in the show must have a costume for their
dance number. Some studios may require parents to sew their child's
costume and/or charge a fee for the costume.
We have professional Costume Designers on staff that create the
tailor made costume for your child's performance at no additional
cost.
4. Are all Year End Performances the same?
No, they are not. Most studios put on a dance show that lasts for
hours and are very repetitious.
At NYCA, we produce a Fully Staged Musical, which your child will
perform in. In addition we have many other performance opportunities
throughout the season which will highlight your child's talents in
dance.
5. Can I get immediate assistance and customer service ?
In many studios the teacher or studio owner conducts classes and
does administration at the same time. By trying to do two jobs at
once, the class may suffer as the teacher has to use class time for
customer service issues. To have a good experience it is important
to choose a studio that can assist you with details like costumes or
schedules, even if a teacher is occupied in a class. At NYCA we have
office staff on hand during all regular class times, so that you can
get immediate assistance.
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New York Conservatory for the Arts
845-339-4340
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