Posts by Greg
Embracing the Season: Reflections for Dance Teachers
Discover the joys of your dance teaching journey in Rhee’s latest blog, “Embracing the Season: Reflections for Dance Teachers.” Remember, amidst the busy season, you’re living your dream! Check out the full post for a quick inspiration boost.
Read MoreStudio Traditions that Build Community
Traditions are a big part of many our lives and they also are a big part of our studio’s culture and community. Ginger Haithcox shares a few of the traditions that have been part of her studio and help to build community and create excitement. Ginger is the Executive Director of Modern Motion in Somerset, NJ, which she started in 2005.
Read MoreAlicia’s Stand: A Tale of Courage and Integrity
In Rhee’s newest blog, ‘Alicia’s Stand: A Tale of Courage and Integrity,’ read about the resilience and unwavering spirit of a studio owner rebuilding her dream. See how Alicia navigated complex challenges within her team, proving that integrity and leadership can transform adversity into empowerment.
Read MoreOne More Push
Ann Bettonvil knows that there are times when creativity is more of a struggle than an art. We all go through “dry spells,” and how we care for ourselves can go a long way in getting creative energy flowing again. Ann shares some helpful ways to make agreements with ourselves that will help in mind, body and spirit. Ann directs The Studio in Brampton, ON with her two business partners.
Read MoreBe That Teacher or Studio Owner Like Susie: Embracing the Future
Meet Susie: a small-town studio owner with a big dream. Discover her journey from isolation to inspiration in our latest blog post. It’s time to break out of your comfort zone and embrace the future of dance education.
Read MoreUnlocking Studio Growth: Rhee’s Simple Recipe for Success
Rhee’s latest blog, Unlocking Studio Growth, is a game-changer for dance studio owners! Find out how shifting focus from competition to inclusivity can unlock your studio’s potential. A must-read for every studio owner.
Read MoreRedirect Recital Madness w/ “3 Before Me”
Excitement and joy surround recital time, but as we all now it can also be a time of much work and some stress. Andrea Trench shares her “3 Before Me” rule to help both students and parents take responsibility to get their recital questions answered without bombarding you or studio staff. Andrea is an expert in early childhood education and owner of Discover Dance.
Read MoreThe Confidence to Focus Inward: Why Your School’s Journey Is Unique
Discover the remarkable power of focusing on your own path in Rhee’s latest blog post. Learn how embracing your unique journey can lead to unparalleled success and fulfillment. Dive in now!
Read MoreFinancial Goal Setting
Talking about and looking at finances is a difficult thing for many business owners and the same is true for studio owners. Ginger Haithcox suggests starting slowly, making lists and developing goals for your business’s finances to help get you on the right track and take away some of the fear. Ginger is the Executive Director of Modern Motion in Somerset, NJ, which she started in 2005.
Read MoreThe Dance of Professionalism: Balancing Relationships in the Studio
Are you a dance teacher or studio owner walking the tightrope between personal friendships and professional decisions? Rhee’ newest blog post, ‘The Dance of Professionalism: Balancing Relationships in the Studio,’ offers guidance on keeping your studio’s atmosphere positive and professional. Learn how clear communication and establishing boundaries can lead to success for you and your studio.
Read MoreOrganization 101
Ann Bettonvil saw at her own studio that more organization and documented systems were needed for efficiency, so she and her partners took the needed steps. Ann shares some helpful tips and insights into what she has done that can help you get started and feel better organized in your business. Ann directs The Studio in Brampton, ON with her two business partners.
Read MoreNavigating Betrayal in the Dance Studio World: Healing and Moving Forward
The world of dance is not immune to challenges, including the heartache of betrayal. Read Rhee Gold’s blog, ‘Navigating Betrayal in the Dance Studio World,’ to learn how to handle such situations with grace and emerge empowered.
Read MoreEmpowering Dance Students
Pam Simpson sees the privilege that we, as dance educators, have in forming young dancers to not only learn skills but be resilient and confident individuals. She shares the “EAR” means of empowering both dance teacherss and students. Pam is the owner of Forte Arts Center in Morris, IL and has over 30 years experience.
Read MoreDance with Integrity: The Heartbeat of Our Teaching Philosophy
Dive into Rhee’s latest blog, ‘Dance with Integrity,’ where we draw on Brené Brown’s wisdom to shape our teaching philosophy. Discover how choosing courage over comfort and upholding our values can transform our approach to dance education and leave a lasting impact on our students’ lives.
Read MoreA Heartfelt Note to Dance Parents Everywhere
As dance parents, you have the power to shape a nurturing and positive community for our young dancers. Let’s focus on their passion, growth, and the joy they find in dance, leaving drama and negativity behind. Encourage their personal best and cherish the memories we’re creating. Together, we’re not just a part of their dance journey; we’re part of their life’s journey.
Read MoreWhat it Costs to Replace You as CEO
What would you need to pay to get someone to do your role? Ginger Haitchcox asks this question to help us separate ourselves from what we do and have a new perspective on things. Your business is now in the business of supporting you and the other employees vs. you working tirelessly with no end in sight. Ginger is the Executive Director of Modern Motion in Somerset, NJ, which she started in 2005.
Read MoreHonoring Every Student’s Unique Path
We’re celebrating the diversity of learners and the personalized journey each dancer embarks on. It’s not just about steps; it’s about growth, individuality, and the joy of discovery. Dive in as we discuss the beauty of nurturing each student’s distinct style and voice. Because in our classrooms, every achievement matters, and every dancer’s journey is a story worth telling.
Read MoreGive Them Something to Talk About
Excitement in the classroom is what we all want, but sometimes with that excitement, especially with our youngest students, there comes a very chatty class. Andrea Trench shares some clever and helpful ways to use the “chattiness” to help your students learn and engage. Andrea is an expert in early childhood education and owner of Discover Dance.
Read MoreDance Teachers and Studio Owners: The Real MVPs
Behind every dance studio is an untold story of resilience, passion, and dedication. It’s not just about teaching dance steps; it’s about inspiring a love for our art, leading with positivity, and overcoming unseen challenges. Can you relate? Check out Rhee’s latest blog for your pat on the back!
Read MoreBoost Revenue
Ann Bettonvil reminds us that dance education and studio ownership have become year-round ventures. As the days of taking a “summer vacation” are behind us, Ann shares some new, exciting ways to boost revenue in the summer and throughout the year. Ann directs The Studio in Brampton, ON with her two business partners.
Read MoreWhat if the Whole World Danced? A Dream of Global Harmony
Dance transcends barriers! Rhee’s latest blog ‘What if the Whole World Danced?’ envisions a world where dance is a bridge between cultures. Join us in imagining a harmonious world through dance.
Read MoreWe Are Always On Stage: Leading by Example in Dance Class
As educators and mentors, we’re constantly in the spotlight, being watched by our students who look to us not just for learning dance but for guidance on how to move through life with elegance, resilience, and good values. Pam Simpson shares some insights on how to be the best example possible in our words and deeds. Pam is the owner of Forte Arts Center in Morris, IL and has over 30 years experience in entrepreneurship and dance education.
Read MoreDance Education: A Future of Diverse Voices and Visions
Rhee Gold shares his insight: In dance, one size does not fit all. The diversity and creativity of educators and dancers fuel the art’s success and growth. Let’s celebrate our differences!
Read MoreWhat to Teach When You Don’t Feel Like Teaching
We’ve all been there… it’s been a long day or week, you have class to teach and you’re just “not feeling it” Andrea Trench shares some important reminders and helpful tips to not only get through the class, but make it good experience for you and your students. Andrea is an expert in early childhood education and owner of Discover Dance.
Read MoreAsking for Feedback Without Getting Your Feelings Hurt
Getting feedback from your customers is important, not only to know how to better serve them, but where your business can grow. Ginger Haithcox shares some ideas and tips on how to ask for truly constructive feedback and how to remove personal emotion from the responses. Ginger is the Executive Director of Modern Motion in Somerset, NJ, which she started in 2005.
Read MoreFilling Your Cup Assignment
An empty cup can pour nothing. Ann Bettonvil has come to better understand this in recent years of her studio owner journey and she shares her own experience on the importance of and how to make sure you are being “filled up” both professionally and personally. Ann directs The Studio in Brampton, ON with her two business partners.
Read MoreFive Essential Lessons on Perseverance Our Dance Students Need to Learn
Change, setbacks and uncertainty have become more of a reality for our students and dancers, especially in the post-pandemic world. Pam Simpson shares five tips and lessons on perseverance that help set up our dancers for more success. Pam is the owner of Forte Arts Center in Morris, IL and has over 30 years experience.
Read MoreFive Books that Revolutionized My Teaching
Teachers must always continue to learn and grow. This can happen within the classroom, but starts with personal preparation and continuing education. Andrea Trench shares five books that can help you take steps to making your teaching even more effective. Andrea is an expert in early childhood education and owner of Discover Dance.
Read MoreLighten Your Load
Being busy does not mean being productive nor does it increase your worth. As a studio owner, Ginger Haithcox knows the stress many of us can face and she shares the importance of “taking things off your plate” and setting personal and professional boundaries to be the best person and entrepreneur. Ginger is the Executive Director of Modern Motion in Somerset, NJ, which she started in 2005.
Read MoreEmpowering Lives through Dance
The journey of dance is one that lasts a lifetime. As our young dancers become adults, sometimes we feel our need to guide them can cease. Ann Bettonvil shares her own experiences on the importance of ensuring dance continues to instill a sense of joy, confidence and empowerment in adult dancers, whether or not dance has been part of their journey previously. Ann directs The Studio in Brampton, ON with her two business partners.
Read MoreAdapting on a Dime
We enter our classrooms with our littles with a great lesson guaranteed to be fun and engaging, but then… they’re just not engaged that day. What do we do? Andrea Trench shares ideas and tools to help us adapt on the fly! Andrea is an expert in early childhood education and owner of Discover Dance.
Read MoreYear-End Financial Fixes
With the end of the calendar year in sight, Ginger Haithcox reminds us that this is an important time to take a look at the status of your finances from this past year and consider any changes that you want to implement in the new year to make 2024 more successful for you and your studio. Ginger is the Executive Director of Modern Motion in Somerset, NJ, which she started in 2005.
Read MoreFall Dance Class Motivation
Just as seasons change, so do our students’ interests and attention spans. With the holidays approaching, Pam Simpson shares some ways we can nurture a sense of focus and motivation in our classrooms to ensure our students progress. Pam is the owner of Forte Arts Center in Morris, IL and has over 30 years experience.
Read MoreLet’s Create: Dance Composition
Creativity lives in our young dancers! In this vlog, Andrea Trench offers tips and ideas on how to bring that out their creative side through collaboration and composition. Andrea is an expert in early childhood education and owner of Discover Dance.
Read MoreFourth Quarter Thoughts
The holidays are approaching and, for a studio owner, this means everything from performance preparation to marketing and new programs. Ginger Haithcox shares her insight and experience to remind us that staying calm and thinking clearly will allow us to do what is best for ourselves and business. Ginger is the Executive Director of Modern Motion in Somerset, NJ, which she started in 2005.
Read MoreHealthy Fall Snack Ideas for Dancers
Dance involves mind, body and spirit ,and Pam Simpson has some simple, helpful ideas for fun, Fall snacks that you can give to your dancers to maintain their energy and help keep them active and healthy! Pam is the owner of Forte Arts Center in Morris, IL and is celebrating her 30th season.
Read MoreDance Studio Safety
Better safe than sorry is the old adage and Ginger Haithcox knows this is important in the life of a dance studio. Ginger shares some ways in which studio owners and teachers can evaluate their studio and it’s policies and procedures to ensure that it is a safer environment for everyone. Ginger is the Executive Director of Modern Motion in Somerset, NJ, which she started in 2005.
Read MoreBest Advice I Ever Received
Learning from others is important for Amanda Herring, and she shares some of the pieces of advice and quips she has learned along the way that are important for all dance teachers to take and internalize. Amanda is the owner of Center Stage Dance in Hernando, MS.
Read MoreAre You Really the Right Person for That Job?
Being a studio owner means being many things for many people, but not all tasks are created equal and not all of them should be done by YOU! Ann Bettonvil shares how over the years she has learned to be better at determining which tasks are best for her to do and which ones should be delegated. Ann is co-director of The Studio in Brampton, ON.
Read MoreStudio Essentials Kit
We’re heading into another dance season and while there is much to get ready, if we have our essentials prepared and handy, we can feel more confident! Andrea Trench will help you put together a “Studio Essentials Kit” to meet the needs of your students. Andrea is an expert in early childhood education and owner of Discover Dance.
Read MoreSteps Toward Freedom as a Studio Owner
Ginger Haithcox knows the ups and downs of studio ownership. In her experience, Ginger has learned tools and tips that helped her on the path to more freedom in her business and life, and she shares those with us! Ginger is the Executive Director of Modern Motion in Somerset, NJ, which she started in 2005.
Read MoreStepping into the Limelight
Whether you’re a seasoned pro or just starting your teaching journey, Pam Simpson is here to equip you with invaluable insights and strategies to kick off the upcoming dance season. Pam is the owner of Forte Arts Center in Morris, IL and has years of experience running her studio and businesses.
Read MoreIt’s All About Vision
Dance teacher, studio owner, mom… these are just a few of the hats that we have to wear. Ann Bettonvil knows that it requires balance and time, but we can get the most out of all this with a clearer vision. She shares how a vision board has helped put things in better perspective. Ann is co-director of The Studio in Brampton, ON.
Read MoreGive AI a Try
Ginger Haithcox knows how busy studio owner life can be, so it is important to find ways to streamline tasks. She shares some ways in which trying AI might be one way to help with copywriting, marketing and more. Ginger is the Executive Director of Modern Motion in Somerset, NJ, which she started in 2005.
Read MoreMaximizing Summer Break
Pam Simpson knows that summer is the perfect time to recharge and relax, but it’s also time to reflect and plan for success in the new season. She shares step-by-step tips to help you pre-plan classes and lesson plans. Pam is the owner of Forte Arts Center in Morris, IL and is celebrating her 30th season.
Read MoreRediscover Your Joy
Discovering moments of joy is a priority for Amanda Herring. As summer is here, she shares the ups and downs we all struggle with, especially at the end of a dance season and how we can work to rediscover joy in our lives day by day. Amanda is the owner of Center Stage Dance in Hernando, MS.
Read MoreEveryone’s Succession Plan Looks Different
Being a dance teacher and studio owner can bring great joy, but the work and stress also leads to burnout. Ann Bettonvil shares her personal journey of moving from “being done” to executing a plan to delegate and handle the burdens of business… and you can do it too! Ann is co-director of The Studio in Brampton, ON.
Read MoreSelf Assess for Class Success
Andrea Trench knows that successful classrooms start with preparation She shares how self-assessments bring to light what was successful in your classes and what can be improved moving forward. Andrea is an expert in early childhood education and owner of Discover Dance.
Read MoreSummer Refresh
Summer is the perfect time to spruce things up, both professionally and personally. Ginger Haithcox shares her list of five things that studio owners can refresh during some down time. Ginger is the Executive Director of Modern Motion in Somerset, NJ, which she started in 2005.
Read MoreBuilding a Strong Classroom Community
Building a strong and vibrant community within a dance classroom requires a deliberate focus on creating a positive culture, nurturing environment, and shared values. Pam Simpson shares helpful ideas to build an inclusive and supportive community that inspires students to thrive! Pam is the owner of Forte Arts Center in Morris, IL and is celebrating her 30th season.
Read More3 Ways to Get to the Finish Line
The end of season can be challenging. Andrea Trench shares three ways to add novelty to your classes so they can continue to be upbeat, fresh, and exciting for you and your students. Andrea is an expert in early childhood education and owner of Discover Dance.
Read MoreReducing Friction in Your Studio
We’ve all seen it, we’ve all experienced it, and we all have looked for ways to combat it – its friction in your studio! Ginger shares some positive and helpful ways to get dancers, clients and staff onboard with your vision and policies. Ginger is the Executive Director of Modern Motion in Somerset, NJ, which she started in 2005.
Read MoreKeeping the Spark Alive!
The end of the season brings lots of preparation and warm weather. This can lead to fatigue. Pam Simpson shares some straightforward ways we, as dance educators, can keep the spark of dance alive in ourselves and our students to finish the season strong! Pam is the owner of Forte Arts Center in Morris, IL and is celebrating her 30th season.
Read MoreWhen Dance Class is Exactly What They Need
Dance is for everyone, and Andrea Trench believes no child should be told they’re “not ready” for dance classes. She shares the steps she takes to make sure her dance classes are a place for all. Andrea is an expert in early childhood education and owner of Discover Dance.
Read MoreDo You Need an Assistant
Ginger Haithcox understands that studio owners have to be “jacks of all trades,” but this demand can at times be overwhelming. She shares insights on how an an assistant focused on meeting YOUR needs might be just what you need to succeed! Ginger is the Executive Director of Modern Motion in Somerset, NJ, which she started in 2005.
Read MoreGet & Keep Parents Involved
Dance educators are able to develop meaningful relationships with dancers in the classroom, but to complete the picture and help it be the best possible experience, a healthy relationship and line of communication with the parents/guardians is essential. Pam shares some ways to develop and nurture this relationship as a studio owner and dance teacher. Pam is the owner of Forte Arts Center in Morris, IL and is celebrating her 30th season.
Read MoreLooking Back to Empower Your Future
Being a dance educator and entrepreneur requires continual creativity, but sometimes we don’t feel so “creative.” Yet, the one who often is most able to ignite our creativity is actually ourselves! Ann Bettonvil shares how with a little journaling and time, we can see how our own ideas and planning can lead to sparks of new creativity. Ann is co-director of The Studio in Brampton, ON.
Read MoreEnhance Creativity & Engagement w/ Movement Cards
The necessity of engagement at the preschool age is real! Andrea Trench shares how incorporating guided explorations into our classes is a fantastic way to boost engagement, enhance creativity, and build artistry. Andrea is an expert in early childhood education and owner of Discover Dance.
Read MoreReframing Your Role as an Employer
Ginger Haithcox offers a challenge to studio owners: put the same level of care into your staff that you put into your beloved students. Doing this may require reframing how we view leadership and act as a leader. Ginger is the Executive Director of Modern Motion in Somerset, NJ, which she started in 2005.
Read MoreHelp Your Students Reach Their Goals
Pam Simpson loves to empower her students! She shares some helpful tips and ideas on how dance teacher can both support and partner with students in their journey to feel confident and successful. Pam is the owner of Forte Arts Center in Morris, IL and is celebrating her 30th season.
Read MorePreschool Emergency Sub Plan
The struggle to find curriculum to teach your preschool classes when a sub is needed, sometimes in a pinch, is rather common, but it doesn’t need to be as stressful. Andrea Trench shares some tips to help with this and provides guidance on the Alphabeat program… problem solved! Andrea is an expert in early childhood education and owner of Discover Dance.
Read MoreFacing Fertility Concerns While Running a Studio
Ginger Haithcox knows the joys and challenges of being a dance teacher and studio owner and shares her own journey of preparing for and having a family while balancing the demands of business and work. Her insight and honesty will inspire! Ginger is the Executive Director of Modern Motion in Somerset, NJ which she started in 2005.
Read MorePlanning for Recital Rooutines
Pam Simpson is excited for recital preparation! But, with this excitement, comes the need to be well prepared. Pam shares some helpful planning tips that will make your choregraphing go more smoothly and help you feel confident and ready! Pam is the owner of Forte Arts Center in Morris, IL and is celebrating her 30th season.
Read MorePreschool Classroom Success: Reminders for a Challenging Class
Teaching dance to our littles brings many smiles and joys, but sometimes there are classes that are just extra challenging and even difficult. Andrea Trench shares insight on what we need to keep and mind and can do in the classroom to meet these challenges. Andrea is an expert in early childhood education and owner of Discover Dance.
Read MoreAre You Charting the Course?
Pam Simpson shares about the importance of “charting the course” in our professional and personal lives. To lead and educate others, we too must be looking forward, and she shares way we can do so with confidence and positivity. Pam is the owner of Forte Arts Center in Morris, IL and is celebrating her 30th season.
Read MoreEmbracing Vulnerability
Stacey Morgan, studio owner and successful dance entrepreneur, has been in a leadership role for much of her adult life and her experiences have helped her be a better leader, educator and person. Stacey shares about vulnerability and how as dance educators, we are not always called to have the answers to everything, but be good learners ourselves.
Read MorePreschool Classroom Success: Educating Caregivers
Andrea Trench, early childhood educator and owner of Discover Dance, knows that for dance education to be successful it is a collaborative effort and requires the understanding and support of the families of young dancers almost as much as the dancers themselves. She shares some ways we can positively educate the caregivers of our little dancers.
Read MoreSet & Reach Your Goals in the New Year
Pam Simpson, owner of Forte Arts Center in Morris, IL is in her 30th season and over that time has mastered the art of goal setting. Pam shares some tips on how to not only identify and set goals, but how you can put systems in place to help you achieve them in the new year.
Read More50 Preschool Prop Activities
Andrea Trench, early childhood educator and owner of Discover Dance, shares some great tips for preschool prop activities in your dance classrooms. She knows props and songs go hand in hand, and she has you covered with lots of fun ideas!
Read MoreAmp Up Your Accountability
Pam Simpson, owner of Forte Arts Center in Morris, IL is in her 30th season and still learns more about herself and her business each day. Pam shares about the importance of accountability and how an accountability partner can help keep you on track with your goals for you, your classroom and your business.
Read MorePreschool Classroom Success: Space Markers
Andrea Trench, early childhood educator and owner of Discover Dance, knows that when working with our littles in the classroom, the flow of the class and the physical flow of the students is key to success. She shares about an effective strategy she has used: space markers.
Read MoreLove Your Body
Pam Simpson, owner of Forte Arts Center in Morris, IL is in her 30th season and has had the privilege of working with many great students. Today, she tackles the important topic of positive body image for young dancers and how we, as dance educators, can encourage and support this both in and out of the classroom.
Read MorePrivate Lesson Success Tips
Pam Simpson, owner of Forte Arts Center in Morris, IL is in her 30th season and recently has seen that having students retain and remember what they learn becomes more and more difficult. She shares some tips for all dance educators to help students be more successful in their private lessons.
Read More10 Resting Activities for your Early Childhood Dance Classes
In her latest vlog, Andrea Trench, early-childhood dance education specialist, shares some great activities that help to promote a restful and quiet spirit in your little dancers. This gives them to time to think and better understand themselves and what is going on around them when doing movement.
Read MoreMaking Changes Confidently
Amanda Herring, of Center Stage Dance in Hernando, MS, understands that change is hard, but is often necessary or inevitable. Amanda shares her insights on how dance educators can be confident and flexible when faced with change.
Read MorePreschool Classroom Success: Obstacle Courses
Andrea Trench, early childhood educator and owner of Discover Dance, is a master at developing strategies to engage students and get them back “on track” in class. In this latest blog entry, Andrea discusses the use of obstacle courses to educate, engage and develop skills.
Read MoreA Plan Can Save the Day
Pam Simpson, owner of Forte Arts Center in Morris, IL is in her 30th season and every year requires strategizing and planning. Pam shares so helpful tips for dance educators to use to get the week ahead in order and enter into the studio and classroom with confidence!
Read MoreThe Venn Diagram Life
I often joke that I live within a Venn Diagram. As studio owners, we can perhaps break our lives into three, round circles – Work, Housekeeping, Family & Leisure. Of the three areas illustrated in the diagram, I can successfully manage two. The third one? Well…that circle goes flat. I can be in great shape…
Read MorePreschool Classroom Success: Meeting the Needs of the Developing Child
Andrea Trench, early childhood educator and owner of Discover Dance, knows the impact dance teachers have on the development of young minds and hearts. She shares Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs and how this can and should be applied to your classroom this year to have young and happy developing dancers!
Read More6 Ways to Keep Your Students Engaged
Pam Simpson, owner of Forte Arts Center in Morris, IL is beginning her 30th dance season! She shares those years of experience by offering six ways in which we can keep our students engaged, not only for a class, but for the whole year, as they feel recognized and confident.
Read MoreClassroom Success: Catch & Reel Tools
Andrea Trench, early-childhood dance education specialist, knows the challenge of getting and keeping our little ones’ attention in the classroom. She shares two tips to make it happen!
Read MoreAre You Ready?
As the new dance season starts there is much to prepare, but are we ready when faced with the unthinkable? Pam Simpson, owner of Forte Dance Arts, shares her harrowing story of a recent lockdown at her studio and in her community and how we can all learn and be better prepared to keep our students and studios safer.
Read MorePreschool Classroom Success: First Day Prep
Andrea Trench, early-childhood dance education specialist, get our minds and dance spirits ready for the new season with our littles to begin.
Read MoreAcknowledge, Recognize & Encourage Your Students
Pam is the owner of Forte Arts Center and Tumbling Effect, and she recognizes that as we are heading into a new season, it is important to stop and make a plan for how you will recognize and praise your students this year.
Read MorePreschool Classroom Success: Transitions
We spend so much time planning our class activities, choosing our music, and incorporating props to enrich our learning environment. During all of this planning, we may forget to also plan our activity transitions. When we neglect planning what will connect one activity to the other, we create an opportunity for off-track behavior. Transitions are…
Read MoreSummer is the Time to Get Ahead
As dance teachers and studio owners, our summers are much different than the rest of the year. This is a time that we can get ahead, coast, or get behind. Although I am busy in different ways in the summer, I like to take time to get ahead on a few projects over the summer…
Read MoreMust-Have Preschool Props
Now is a great time to organize, order, and prepare your class props for your next session! As you are creating your early childhood dance class plans for the new season, remember a successful learning environment is a multi-sensory learning environment. In order to support all learners in our dance classes, we must use props.…
Read MoreLife After Recital
Months and months of planning go into our annual recitals. We pour our hearts and souls into every detail to make sure it is a success and in a matter of a few hours, it is over. This brings on a mix of emotions. We are proud of our students and our team, and we…
Read More50 Preschool Class Activities
I’ve collected some of my favorite class activities to share with you. These songs are categorized by the concept they explore. (You can read more about conceptual teaching here). Although many of these songs can explore multiple concepts, I recommend you choose just one to focus on so even your youngest dancers can work towards full…
Read MoreCelebrate Your Seniors
As you are planning the end of your season, it is important to take a few minutes and think of a few ways that you can celebrate your graduating seniors. These dancers have most likely been with you for many years and are special to you, your staff, and their peers. At the end of…
Read MoreFUNday ONE-Day Camps
One-day camps are a fantastic way to bring additional excitement (and revenue) to your studio! Unlike a multiple day camp that is limited to longer breaks such as summer or winter breaks, these events can be sprinkled throughout your season. Offering a one-day camp allows new students the opportunity to learn more about the overall…
Read MoreBreathe
I will simply breathe. I have a confession to make…as I sit here on Sunday evening, I have tremendous anxiety about my upcoming show. Yep, the girl who always “has it all together” is fretting, screaming inside, and a little shaky. I move into my theater in exactly one month, and I just don’t feel…
Read MoreGet Recital Ready
Dance Teachers, it is time to get your classes Recital Ready. There are many ways to prepare your classes for the stage to ensure they feel confident and it is the time to get started! Most of us have not been in a theater for a Recital since 2019, so many of our students don’t…
Read MoreWorth vs. Work
“Your worth is not measured by your productivity.” Read that again. We do this, don’t we? We measure our worth by how much we have to do, by the amount of things we are busy doing, or by what we accomplish. Those things DO NOT define us or our value as people. Let’s hash this…
Read MoreCitizenship
At my studio, we focus on a different character trait each month, so I thought it would be fun to share what we do for April in this article. In April we teach our students about Citizenship. It is a great time of year to talk about how we can all be good citizens. Earth…
Read MoreElevate Your Early Childhood Dance Classes
Have you heard of the conceptual approach to dance education? In my work through DiscoverDance, I have been on a mission to elevate the quality of early childhood dance education. I dream of every child having the opportunity to walk into a dance class, have their needs met, learn the skills of dance, and become…
Read MoreThe Voice of Fear
I follow the Facebook pages and groups. I sign up for the seminars and learning opportunities. I attend the Dancelife Teacher Conference. I am a part of the Gold Alliance. I listen to my mentors. I take copious notes. I am inspired by business leaders. My notes are copious. I’m excited. There are so many…
Read MoreCoffee Talk: Episode 17
Looking for fresh ideas for the classroom and biz? This is going to inspire you, guaranteed!
Read MoreCoffee Talk: Episode 16
Join us for a conversation on how we can inspire the young women who dance to prepare for their greatness!
Read MoreCombating Spring Fever
It is that time of year again, the time that our students all get spring fever and have trouble focusing and staying engaged in class. In the Midwest, this starts happening in late February and continues until late April as the weather is not great, but we all want it to be. There are several…
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