Being a dance parent is likely unlike most other "sports parent" roles out there... because dance is a unique sport in itself. Competitive dancing requires the body of an athlete and the soul of an artist. In order to achieve the level necessary to be competitive, dancers need a well guided education and training process combined with the grit and motivation to keep pushing, and a solid support system. Competitive dance is hard- and when you combine it with 40 or more other teenage girls... well, there's bound to be "moments"!
Here are some tips as you embark on the world of Dance Parent!
We try our best to be a strong community. The parents of other dancers can be your biggest support system and resource. Talk to other moms and dads during competitions, and don't be afraid to reach out in other ways (like our Band app). Many parents have had their kids in dance for years and they can give you advice and tips!
Every dancer progresses at their own pace. Don’t compare your child to other dancers or expect them to all learn the steps and move to different levels at the same time. Focus on encouraging your child to do their best, work hard and have fun. Ask them what their goals are, or what skill they'd most like to tackle and encourage them to keep working at it (many times it takes lots of extra practice in the garage or basement to get something down!).
Just like having the right sports equipment is vital to success on the court or field, having the right dance equipment is crucial to a dancer’s success, especially during all those hours of practice!
It can be hard to sit back and watch your child learn something new, especially if they are having a hard time mastering something, or if there is a change in the routine. You may not understand every coaching decision, but just like any other sports team we must trust that the coaches have the teams/ girls best interest in mind.
Performances and competitions can be a flurry of excitement, especially when dancers must bring multiple costumes and accessories. Part of being on the high school team is learning how to organize and maintain all their "things". Remind your dancer to keep everything organized in garment bags to avoid wrinkles or damage to the costumes. Help organize accessories in plastic bags. Reminders to keep things organized before competitions helps ensure that nothing gets damaged or left behind (and you're not scrambling to find or bring forgotten items!)
Pack a dance bag with extra supplies your dancer might need. Band Aids, Tylenol or Ibuprofen, feminine items, BioFreeze etc. are all great things to have on hand! Your dancer should pack extra tights, undergarments, bobby pins etc. in their dance bag.
Practice and comp days can be long and grueling, and just like any other sport your dancer will need adequate fuel to perform at their best. Encourage your dancer to keep their energy up with healthy snacks and extra water. Protein bars, dried fruit, nuts, cheese and crackers are all things that we have found to be easy for throwing in a backpack or dance bag and snacking on before practice or during a comp!