As September rolls around, dance teachers everywhere are gearing up for a new season filled with fresh faces, new routines, and endless possibilities. It’s the perfect time to reset, refocus, and set the tone for a successful year ahead. Here are some key tips to help you start the season with energy and enthusiasm, ensuring a positive experience for both you and your students.

1. Setting the Tone for the Year

The first few weeks of the season are crucial in establishing the culture of your classroom. Start by creating a warm, welcoming environment that makes students feel excited to be there. Greet each student by name as they walk in, and spend a few moments engaging in conversation to build rapport. Set clear expectations early on about classroom behavior, attendance, and participation. Use this time to introduce your teaching style and let students know what they can expect from you.

Consider incorporating a fun icebreaker activity that helps students get to know each other and feel comfortable. This not only helps break the initial nervousness but also fosters a sense of community right from the start. Remember, the energy you bring to the classroom will be mirrored by your students, so keep it positive, upbeat, and encouraging!

I love to do getting-to-know-you icebreakers, asking them questions about their summer, favorite foods, etc. For my performing group students I like to have them make a class poster stating the things they think are important for a successful year. This helps them set the tone for themselves and always makes for great conversation.

2. Organizing Your Curriculum

A well-planned curriculum is the backbone of a successful dance season. Take some time before classes start to map out your lessons, keeping in mind the goals you have for each class and each student. Break down your choreography and skills into manageable chunks that you can build on each week, and ensure there’s a mix of technique, choreography, and fun.

Keep your curriculum flexible enough to adjust to the pace of your students. Consider creating a month-by-month outline of key skills or routines you want to cover, and use it as a guide to keep you on track. This approach not only helps you stay organized but also allows you to communicate progress with parents, keeping them in the loop on what their child is learning.

I have all of my curriculum on Google Sheets. It is great to have them all in one place and all completed. If you don’t have yours done, start now and notate what you are teaching and organize your lesson plans so you can use them year after year. I spend a week before our season begins updating and editing them to keep them fresh and current.

3. Self-Care for Teachers

The beginning of the season is exciting, but it can also be overwhelming. As dance teachers, it’s easy to get caught up in the whirlwind of classes, planning, and endless to-do lists. Remember, your energy and well-being directly impact your teaching, so it’s essential to prioritize self-care.

Schedule regular breaks, stay hydrated, and make time for activities that recharge you, whether it’s a quiet moment of reflection, a quick workout, or simply stepping outside for fresh air. Setting boundaries, like not answering work emails after a certain time, can also help maintain a healthy work-life balance. By taking care of yourself, you’ll be able to bring your best self to your students.

4. Engaging with Parents

Building strong relationships with parents early in the season sets a positive tone for the entire year. Open lines of communication from the start by introducing yourself through a welcome letter or email. Share your goals for the season and let parents know how they can support their child’s dance journey.

Consider hosting a brief parent meeting at the start of the season to address any questions and outline your expectations. Regular updates, whether through newsletters, emails, or a private class social media group, help keep parents engaged and involved.

When parents feel connected and informed, they’re more likely to support you and their child’s dance experience.

Starting the season off strong is all about preparation, positivity, and connection. By setting the tone, staying organized, prioritizing self-care, and engaging with parents, you’ll be well on your way to a vibrant and successful year ahead. Here’s to a fantastic new season of dance!