Get Your Groove On: Choosing the Right Street Dance Class for Your Child

Do your kids have a passion for dance? Are they always showing off their moves at family gatherings or dancing around the living room? If so, enrolling them in a street dance class might be the perfect way to channel their energy into a fun, safe, and rewarding activity. Street dance has become increasingly popular in recent years, and there’s no better time to introduce your child to this exciting and creative art form. But before you sign them up, it’s essential to choose the right class that will nurture their talent and keep them motivated. In this blog post, we will explore the key factors to consider when selecting the perfect street dance class for your child.

1. Determine the Style of Street Dance Your Child is Interested In

Street dance is an umbrella term for various urban dance styles that originated on the streets, clubs, and parks. Each style has its unique characteristics, techniques, and cultural history. While some classes may focus on a specific style, others may offer a blend of styles. Here are some popular street dance styles to consider:

• Hip-hop: Originating in the 1970s in New York City, hip-hop is a high-energy dance style characterized by its freestyle nature, bouncy movements, and intricate footwork. It often incorporates elements of popping and locking.
• Breaking (Breakdancing): Also originating in NYC, breaking is an athletic and acrobatic dance style that involves various intricate footwork, spins, and freezes. It’s typically danced to break beats and drum breaks in music.
• House: House dance emerged in the late 1980s in Chicago and is characterized by its fluid, rhythmic footwork and smooth body movements. It’s typically danced to electronic dance music with strong basslines and percussion.
• Krump: Krump is a high-energy, aggressive, and expressive dance style that originated in Los Angeles in the early 2000s. It incorporates sharp, exaggerated movements, stomps, and chest pops.

Ask your child which style they are most interested in learning, or if they would prefer a class that incorporates multiple street dance styles. This will help you narrow down your search and find a class that suits their interests.

2. Consider the Age and Experience Level of Your Child

When choosing a street dance class, it’s essential to find one that caters to your child’s age and experience level. Many dance schools offer classes for specific age groups, such as preschoolers, juniors, and teens, with each class tailored to the developmental needs and abilities of the students. Additionally, some classes may be designed for beginners, while others cater to more advanced dancers. Make sure to choose a class that matches your child’s current skill level, so they feel comfortable and challenged in their lessons.

3. Research Different Dance Schools and Instructors

Not all dance schools are created equal, and it’s essential to find one with a solid reputation, excellent facilities, and experienced instructors. When researching different dance schools, consider the following factors:

• Reputation: Ask for recommendations from friends, family, or your child’s school, and read online reviews to get an idea of each school’s reputation. Look for schools with a proven track record in helping students develop their skills, perform in showcases, or even compete at events.
• Facilities: Visit the dance studios in person to assess their facilities. Look for clean, spacious studios with proper flooring, mirrors, and sound systems. The environment should be safe, welcoming, and conducive to learning.
• Instructors: Research the qualifications and experience of the instructors teaching the street dance classes. Look for teachers who have trained in the specific styles they are teaching and have a passion for nurturing young talent. It’s also essential to choose an instructor who can connect with your child and make the lessons engaging and enjoyable.

4. Attend Trial Classes or Open Houses

Many dance schools offer trial classes or open houses where prospective students can try out a lesson before committing to a full term. Attending a trial class allows your child to experience the teaching style, class structure, and overall atmosphere of the school. It also provides an opportunity for you to observe the class and ask any questions you may have about the curriculum, fees, or the school’s policies.

5. Assess the Class Structure and Teaching Methods

During the trial class or open house, pay attention to the class structure and the teaching methods used by the instructor. A well-structured class should include a warm-up, technical exercises, choreography, and a cool-down. The instructor should be able to break down complex movements into simple steps, provide constructive feedback, and tailor their teaching to suit the individual needs of each student. They should also create a positive learning environment that encourages creativity, self-expression, and teamwork.

6. Consider the Time, Location, and Financial Commitment

Finally, when choosing a street dance class for your child, consider the practical aspects such as the class schedule, location, and fees. Look for a class that fits your family’s schedule and is located in a convenient and safe area. Additionally, be aware of the financial commitment involved, including tuition fees, dance attire, and competition or performance costs. Choose a class that offers value for money and aligns with your budget.

Get Your Child Grooving with Intune Dance and Movement

Now that you know what to look for in a street dance class, it’s time to get your child moving and grooving with the perfect class for their needs. At Intune Dance and Movement, we offer a range of street dance classes for children of all ages and skill levels. Our experienced instructors are passionate about nurturing young talent and helping each student reach their full potential.

Get in touch with us today at [email protected] to book your child’s first street dance class and set them on the path to discovering a lifelong love for dance.