Attention Getters for Dance Class: Classroom Management That Actually Works

As a former public school dance educator who also teaches in the private studio setting I’ve taught in just about every classroom setting you can imagine—tiny elementary gymnasiums, middle school multipurpose rooms, and beautifully mirrored dance studios. And if there’s one thing I’ve learned across all these environments, it’s this:

Getting your students’ attention quickly and efficiently is a superpower.

Whether you’re teaching a 6-year-old tap combo or prepping your teen jazz students for a recital, effective classroom management starts with simple routines. And one of the most powerful tools I’ve carried with me from the public school classroom into the studio is using attention getters.

These short, engaging call-and-response phrases are fun, easy to remember, and actually work. They help create structure, focus, and respect, without the need to raise your voice or waste class time.

So if you’re looking for ways to grab your students’ attention and get them listening fast, this post is for you. Here are some of my favorite attention getters for dance class; plus tips on how and when to use them.

Why Use Attention Getters in Dance Class?

First, let’s talk about why attention getters are so helpful, especially in a dance setting.

Unlike a traditional classroom, dance teachers often work in large open spaces with music playing and a lot of physical movement happening at once. That makes it harder to simply “raise your voice” and expect everyone to stop and listen. You need something fun, consistent, and effective.

Benefits of Using Attention Getters:

✅ Encourages active listening
✅ Saves time during transitions
✅ Promotes mutual respect
✅ Works well with all age groups
✅ Reduces behavioral issues
✅ Creates a fun classroom culture

And let’s be honest—sometimes it’s just more fun to say, “Waterfall, waterfall…” than “Okay, everyone be quiet now.”

My Go-To Attention Getters (That Students LOVE)

Here are a few of my tried-and-true attention getters that I use in both studio and school settings. They’re easy to introduce, and your students will catch on fast.

1. “Waterfall, waterfall…”

Students respond: “Shhhhhhhh!”

This one is fun, calming, and works beautifully with younger students. When you say “Waterfall, waterfall,” they echo back with a long, gentle “Shhhhhhh.” It signals calm and stillness—perfect before giving new instructions or resetting the room.

2. “Ago?”

Students respond: “Ame!”

This call-and-response has roots in West African storytelling and is a respectful and powerful way to bring a group together. When you say “Ago?” (which means “Are you listening?”), students respond with “Ame!” (meaning “Yes, we are listening!”).

This is especially great in dance classes that incorporate cultural dance styles or rhythm-based curriculum.

3. “And a hush fell over the crowd…”

Students respond: “Shhhhh!”

This one always gets a giggle. It’s dramatic and playful—which makes it super effective with younger dancers or classes with big personalities. You say the phrase with flair, and the students deliver the “Shhhhh!” like a perfectly timed sound cue.

4. “1, 2, 3—All eyes on me!”

Students respond: “1, 2—Eyes on you!”

This classic works across all ages and is perfect during transitions. Use it when switching from across-the-floor to center work, or when you need their eyes on you before the next combo.

When and How to Introduce Attention Getters

The best time to introduce your attention-getting routine is at the start of a new season or session. But even if you’re mid-semester, it’s never too late to reset expectations.

Here’s how I introduce them:

Model it first. Say the phrase with energy and clarity. Let them hear how it’s supposed to sound.
Practice together. Make it a game the first few times—practice two or three in a row so they feel confident.
Stay consistent. Use the same one at the same time in class each week. Consistency creates habit.
Rotate when needed. Switch it up every month or so to keep things fresh.

Bonus: Other Fun Attention Getters to Try

If you’re looking to expand your toolbox, here are a few more you can test out with your students:

“Tootsie roll…”
Students say: “Slide!” (with a little movement to match)
Why it works: Fun, rhythmic, and perfect for high-energy kids.
“Ready to rock?”
Students say: “Ready to roll!”
Why it works: Builds excitement right before beginning choreography or combos.
“Flat tire…”
Students say: “Shhhhhh!”
Why it works: Unexpected and silly, grabs their attention instantly.
Clap Patterns
You clap a rhythm, and they repeat it. Works wonders for non-verbal cues and even helps with rhythm training!

Tips for Using Attention Getters Effectively

✅ Don’t overuse them – Save them for key transition moments or when you need to regroup the class.
✅ Keep it light – Say it with a smile, not frustration. Make it part of your dance class culture.
✅ Invite buy-in – Let your students vote on a new attention getter every few weeks. They’ll love the ownership.
✅ Adapt for older dancers – Some teens may feel “too cool,” so use call-and-response that feels more mature, or even let them make their own.

What If It’s Not Working?

If you’re using attention getters and not getting the response you want, check the energy you’re bringing to it. Make sure you’re speaking clearly, waiting for full class participation, and reinforcing the behavior you want.

Sometimes a quick reminder like, “Remember, we all say it together,” is all it takes to get everyone back on track.

Final Thoughts: Building a Classroom That Runs Smoothly

The beauty of teaching dance isn’t just about choreography—it’s about creating a space where students can grow, express themselves, and feel supported. Attention getters are a small but powerful way to bring structure to your class without sacrificing fun.

So if you haven’t tried these yet, pick one and give it a go! And if you’re already a classroom management pro, I’d love to hear from you. Drop your favorite attention getter in the comments below or tag me on Instagram @myorderedsteps.co with your go-to classroom tricks.

Happy teaching—and may all your classes be full of focus and fun.

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