When a young child expresses an interest in dance, parents may find it easiest to sign up at the closest studio. However, to ensure the best experience, parents should first think about what exactly they expect from a studio.

1. By the Linda Jamieson School of Dance

2. When a young child expresses an interest in
dance, parents may find it easiest to sign up at the
closest studio. However, to ensure the best
experience, parents should first think about what
exactly they expect from a studio. Here are some
considerations.

3. 1. School philosophy. Does the studio value the education of all students, no
matter the age or ability, or does it cater to pre-professional dancers? Does it
focus on competitions and performances over technique?
2. Classes. How many children are in a class? Are students grouped according
to age, ability, or both? How do classes progress as dancers get older? School-
age children can normally handle something more in-depth than a
combination class. Does the focus of each class turn to the recital halfway
through the year?
3. Faculty. Does the particular instructor have dance training in the genre he or
she teaches? What educational certifications do the teachers have?
Performance experience is important but secondary to one’s ability to instruct
others.
4. Alumni. Are any of the studio’s former students pursuing careers in dance,
whether in performance, teaching, or choreography?
5. Feedback. Do parents have a chance to observe their children at times other
than the end-of-year recital? How are students informed of their progress?

4. For more than 30 years, the Linda Jamieson School of
Dance in Kanata, Ontario, Canada, has helped
students ages 3 to 19 to develop their talents.