When Should You Enroll Your Child in Dance Classes?

Many parents wonder what the proper age is to enroll their children in dance class. How young is too young to begin dance classes in Erie, PA? Is there a point when they're too old to start? This article will outline the proper ages at which your child can begin dancing, and the different things that their classes will focus on in each age group. It will also address whether or not there is an age at which children are "too old" to start taking dance classes.

Ages 3 to 5

Most dance studios offer dance classes for virtually any child that is completely potty trained. At this age, your child's classes will focus on basic rhythm, appreciation of music, body awareness, and developing an overall love for dancing. There won't really be any time spent on learning techniques or intricate dance routines. Any routines that are taught will be very basic and will involve simple movements that are easy for your child to learn.

If you hope for your child to dance on a competitive level some day, it is best to start them early so that dance becomes second nature for them. However, don't expect any sort of competitive dancing to begin in this age group.

Ages 6 to 10

At this stage, children will begin to focus more on learning proper technique when they dance. This will include posture, proper limb extension, pointing of the toe, and more, depending on what style of dance they are learning. Routines will become more complex, and your child will likely begin dancing in competitions to test their skills against others in their age group.

To have a good chance of being a competitive dancer, your child should really be enrolled in classes at or before this stage in their lives. At this age, children are generally still fast learners, and habits regarding posture and body carriage are easily changed with proper instruction.

Preteens and Teens

Once your child reaches their preteen years, they should be attending dance classes multiple times a week in order to really compete at a high level. Competition gets more intense as they get older, and more focus and dedication will be required for them to stay at the top of their age group. You should also expect there to be some travel involved if your child does well, as they will qualify for larger competitions in different states.

If your child is in this age group and has not yet begun taking dance classes, it is unlikely that they will be able to dance on a high competitive level. However, it is never too late to enroll in dance classes and begin a new hobby. If your teen wants to take up dancing just as something fun to do, then by all means, enroll them right away! However, if they want to compete, it's important that you set proper expectations for them before they begin their classes.

Adults and Seniors

Adults and seniors who enroll in dance classes should do so as a means of staying active, having fun, and learning something new. It is a great way to bond with a spouse or to just do something relaxing at the end of a stressful day. It can also help strengthen the muscles and improve heart and lung function, contributing to a longer, healthier life. 

However, don't expect to be involved in any high-level competitions at this age. There may be some local dance competitions for adult beginners, but they will be more casual events than those for dancers who have spent their entire lives in dance classes.

Overall, there's no age that's too old to start dancing. It's simply important that you know what your goals are for you or your child before signing up for dance classes in Erie, PA.

Source : articlesbase.com