A common question that we receive at our dance studio in Whippany, NJ, especially from new dance parents, is “what if my child won’t go into class without me?”.
It is not uncommon for younger students to hesitate going into dance class without mom or dad their first time, or first few times. The good news is that our teachers are trained and experienced in dealing with this.
At our dance studio, your child’s teacher will first try to bring them into class without you. Over the years, we have found that after a couple of lessons, dancers are usually fine to go into class without mom or dad and look forward to it! Parents and guardians are welcome to watch classes on our closed circuit TVs from the waiting room.
Here are some tips to help your child feel more comfortable:
Talk to your child about their feelings and concerns. Listen to their perspective and validate their emotions.
Encourage your child to attend class without you. Explain that dance class is a fun opportunity to learn new skills and meet new friends.
Consider enrolling your child in a class with a friend or family member. Having a familiar face in class can help alleviate anxiety.
Speak with the dance instructor about your child's concerns. They may have experience with these situations and can offer suggestions and support.
Start with shorter classes or stay nearby during class. This way, you are available in case your child needs reassurance that you're close by.
Remember, every child is unique and may require different strategies to ease their anxiety. Be patient and supportive throughout the process.