"My daughter loves her classes. I love your studio and staff. You and the staff are all lovely."
FAQ
Am I allowed to watch my child in class?
Yes. The curtains will be open the first week of each month. We have large viewing windows and a spacious lobby for parents and siblings. Dancers will do their best in class when they are not distracted by those in the lobby, so we will close the curtains during weeks 2-4 of each month.
Can we try the class before we commit?
Sure. Your child may do one free trial class to see if it is the right fit. Please send us your contact info and we will email a trial class form.
"DAA has a positive environment that encourages dancers of all abilities to be their best!"
How long do the classes run?
Our school year session runs September through May and we have a separate session in the summer. There is no contract requiring dancers to participate for the entire session, but we feel it is important for students to complete their class commitment whenever possible.
What is your policy on music and costume choice?
All of the music used in class and for performances is age-appropriate, as is the choreography. Themes of sex and violence are not allowed for any age. All costume selections are required to cover cleavage, mid-riffs, and rear-ends.
If I miss a class, do you offer make-up classes?
Students are allowed to do make-ups by attending another class that has space available. Check with the office for class availability.
How much do your recital costumes cost?
Our costumes run from $45-$60, depending on the class and if they are child or adult sizes. We order them in January to ensure delivery in the spring. The cost is broken up and included in the performance package fee.
What is the performance package?
The performance package is a level pay system to help families cover the "extras" that come with being part of a dance program. The package includes the spring recital costume, recital t-shirt, program book and digital recording of the spring performance. The fee is $12 per month (September-May) for the first class and $5 for additional classes that will require a costume. Siblings are discounted at $10 for the first class and $5 for additional classes. The performance package does not cover costume rentals for winter performances, since not every class will require a costume rental.
What do you charge for your recital fees?
Recital tickets are $9.00 per person and all performers are free. Optional expenses may be pictures, flowers, and programs that are offered as souvenirs and for your convenience. T-shirts and DVD's are included in the performance package.
What is a “combo” class?
Combo classes are offered for young and beginning dancers to let them sample different dance styles. Classes offered for preschoolers and kindergartners are ballet and tap and ages 6-8 may do a jazz and tap combo. Dancers will do both dance styles during their lesson each week.
Where can I get shoes and dance wear for my child?
We sell dance shoes and apparel at a reasonable price at the studio. We also recommend Discount Dance Supply online (use code 27594 at checkout for a discount), or any department store for children’s dance wear. We do not allow satin ballet slippers for use in class as dance shoes.
Why is there a dress code?
Dress codes serve many purposes when it comes to dance education. They create a sense of community and belonging (my friends look like me, we have something in common), promote discipline (when it’s dance class, wearing my uniform is how I show my teacher I am ready to learn), and allow for full range of movement (I can move my whole body without anything getting in my way). From a teacher’s perspective, a dress code is a system put forth as part of our classroom management plan due to the fact that they eliminate distractions. Eliminating these distractions allows us to maximize our time together with learning and growing. Having a set dress code, also reduces stress at home when preparing to come to dance class (when it’s time for dance, I know exactly what to wear!).
Dress codes serve many purposes when it comes to dance education. They create a sense of community and belonging (my friends look like me, we have something in common), promote discipline (when it’s dance class, wearing my uniform is how I show my teacher I am ready to learn), and allow for full range of movement (I can move my whole body without anything getting in my way). From a teacher’s perspective, a dress code is a system put forth as part of our classroom management plan due to the fact that they eliminate distractions. Eliminating these distractions allows us to maximize our time together with learning and growing. Having a set dress code, also reduces stress at home when preparing to come to dance class (when it’s time for dance, I know exactly what to wear!).
My child is advanced for his/her age, can he/she dance with older children?
To create an ideal learning environment, age groups are taught separately to ensure proper instruction at each stage of development (just like academic schools). With less of a range of developmental stages in the classroom, the teacher is able to focus on the needs of each individual student no matter their skill set. This is a system put forth in our strategic classroom management plan that allows our time together to be used more effectively. Please do not put our staff in the position of offering preferential treatment by placing your child in a class not intended for them. We strive to treat all families equally and request respect in our decision making as we have your child’s best interests at the forefront of those decisions.
To create an ideal learning environment, age groups are taught separately to ensure proper instruction at each stage of development (just like academic schools). With less of a range of developmental stages in the classroom, the teacher is able to focus on the needs of each individual student no matter their skill set. This is a system put forth in our strategic classroom management plan that allows our time together to be used more effectively. Please do not put our staff in the position of offering preferential treatment by placing your child in a class not intended for them. We strive to treat all families equally and request respect in our decision making as we have your child’s best interests at the forefront of those decisions.
For Parents of Little Dancers:
Why is my dancer just standing/sitting and watching?
How a child participates in class depends on their unique style of learning. According to the VAK (Visual-Auditory-Kinesthetic) Learning Styles model, everyone processes information differently. Every dance class “looks” different because the dynamics of the children’s learning styles differ. Your child may be a visual learner. A visual learner will watch the teacher and classmates carefully to process the information being taught. Your child may be an auditory learner. An auditory learner listens carefully to process information. Visual and auditory learners may not move as much as kinesthetic learners. These learners process information by moving and doing.
How a child participates in class depends on their unique style of learning. According to the VAK (Visual-Auditory-Kinesthetic) Learning Styles model, everyone processes information differently. Every dance class “looks” different because the dynamics of the children’s learning styles differ. Your child may be a visual learner. A visual learner will watch the teacher and classmates carefully to process the information being taught. Your child may be an auditory learner. An auditory learner listens carefully to process information. Visual and auditory learners may not move as much as kinesthetic learners. These learners process information by moving and doing.
Should I come get my dancer if he/she is crying?
It is developmentally appropriate for a child to cry the first few days of classes, working through a challenging skill, or struggling with a new concept. We are learning new and exciting things every week. When new things are difficult, big emotions can take over. If your child is upset, the teacher will assess the situation and may hold his/her hand, pick them up (with their permission), or have them sit down by the wall for their safety. They will continuously be invited back to join the fun. If the teacher sees your child is ill or uncontrollably upset, the teacher will bring them out to you. If you open the studio door, peek in, or enter the classroom, you will not only escalate the situation, but you will increase the distraction for the other children in the class. Thank you for your cooperation.
It is developmentally appropriate for a child to cry the first few days of classes, working through a challenging skill, or struggling with a new concept. We are learning new and exciting things every week. When new things are difficult, big emotions can take over. If your child is upset, the teacher will assess the situation and may hold his/her hand, pick them up (with their permission), or have them sit down by the wall for their safety. They will continuously be invited back to join the fun. If the teacher sees your child is ill or uncontrollably upset, the teacher will bring them out to you. If you open the studio door, peek in, or enter the classroom, you will not only escalate the situation, but you will increase the distraction for the other children in the class. Thank you for your cooperation.
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 push back, especially if they enjoy dance once they get into class. Rather, it’s a change in routine. This could happen with a big move, 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.
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 push back, especially if they enjoy dance once they get into class. Rather, it’s a change in routine. This could happen with a big move, 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.
Should I observe my dancer from the viewing window?
We welcome you to observe your child through our viewing windows during viewing weeks. Your support for their dance education is crucial as they grow through our program. However, if your child is easily distracted, we ask that you not observe. Doing so can quickly escalate off-task behavior leading to wasted class time. You know your child best. We appreciate your assistance in helping us create an environment where attentive learning can take place.
We welcome you to observe your child through our viewing windows during viewing weeks. Your support for their dance education is crucial as they grow through our program. However, if your child is easily distracted, we ask that you not observe. Doing so can quickly escalate off-task behavior leading to wasted class time. You know your child best. We appreciate your assistance in helping us create an environment where attentive learning can take place.
What should we do if we are late for class?
Being late for class is going to happen, and it’s ok! Often times rushing to get to class on time can cause a child to become anxious or upset. If this sounds like your child, it’s important to reassure him/her that they will not be in trouble and it’s ok to be late sometimes. When you arrive, remaining calm will help your child remain calm. Don’t forget hugs and kisses before quietly sending your child into class. To avoid off-task behavior for the rest of the students, it is best to enter between songs or activities. If you are unable to consistently arrive on time, please speak with us to find a class that is more suitable for your schedule.
Being late for class is going to happen, and it’s ok! Often times rushing to get to class on time can cause a child to become anxious or upset. If this sounds like your child, it’s important to reassure him/her that they will not be in trouble and it’s ok to be late sometimes. When you arrive, remaining calm will help your child remain calm. Don’t forget hugs and kisses before quietly sending your child into class. To avoid off-task behavior for the rest of the students, it is best to enter between songs or activities. If you are unable to consistently arrive on time, please speak with us to find a class that is more suitable for your schedule.
Why does it look like you are playing rather than dancing?
According to the National Association for the Education of Young Children, children learn through play. “Play” in dance classes is exploring all the amazing ways our bodies can move, developing movement skills, and expressing our individual creativity. Incorporating props, stories, and student-centered explorations is essential. These will create a strong foundation based on a clear understanding of the essence of movement and the basics of dance. This foundation will prepare dancers for their future technical training in any dance genre.
According to the National Association for the Education of Young Children, children learn through play. “Play” in dance classes is exploring all the amazing ways our bodies can move, developing movement skills, and expressing our individual creativity. Incorporating props, stories, and student-centered explorations is essential. These will create a strong foundation based on a clear understanding of the essence of movement and the basics of dance. This foundation will prepare dancers for their future technical training in any dance genre.