Your child’s first dance recital can be a very exciting event for both you and the aspiring student. However, with the hectic nature of everyday life, a dance recital, especially the first one, has the potential of becoming a stressful time for you and your child. To make sure you fill this day with positive and happy memories for everyone involved, here are a few tips to help prepare you and therefore make things go a little smoother.
Communicate: Keeping a clear line of communication between you, your child, and your child’s teacher is extremely helpful. Being well aware of everything going on will ensure that your child is present for scheduled practices, rehearsals and the actual recital. Making sure your child is on time for all of these things will eliminate stress for the both of you.
Positive Feedback: A dance recital can be a very important part of your child’s life. Since it is such a big deal, chances are they are very nervous about performing in front of an audience. Make sure you continuously give them positive feedback and sooth any worries they may have. At such young age, students can be easily discouraged and it’s important to keep them positive.
Checklists: Make a checklist of things you will need on the day of recital. This list should include things for your child like costume necessities, proper shoes, and any makeup and hair products they will need. It’s also helpful to include things you will need during the recital such as a camera, a back up battery and extra film if you need it.
Video Taping: If you want a video of your child’s performance be sure to find out ahead of time if someone with the school will be videotaping and selling the recording after. If not, find out if there are any rules or regulations concerning videotaping. It’s a great idea to do this before the actual day of the performance to prevent any problems.
Be On Time: Arrive early to the recital in order to secure seats and ensure that you will be able to see your child. If the performance is taking place in a large theater, be sure to find out which seats will allow you to have the optimum view of your child.
Be Respectful: Be mindful of other children on stage before and after your child’s performance. This is an important time for everyone involved and it’s imperative that you be respectful to the families of other members of the dance group. Stay seated until everyone has finished performing, applaud after each performance, and be sure to stay quiet and attentive for each student.
Gift: Although it’s not absolutely necessary, it’s a good idea to bring a small gift or flowers to present to your child after his or her performance. It’s also suggested that you bring a small gift for your child’s teacher to show your appreciation for their hard work.
Keepsakes: Make sure to keep any memorabilia such as a program from the performance. This can be placed in a scrap book for your child, documenting his or her progress as a dancer.
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