Teacher Resources

Back to Dance Schedule: Embracing the Rhythm of a New Season


There’s something about the back to dance schedule season that always feels like a fresh start. Much like the first day of school, the beginning of a new dance year carries excitement, nervous energy, and endless possibilities. The costumes, competitions, and recitals are still months away, but the foundation is set in these first weeks as we begin to shape technique, set goals, and create new memories in the studio.

This year, classes officially kick off this week, and I couldn’t be more ready. Over the last few weeks, I’ve been lesson planning, organizing music, and sketching out exercises I want to introduce. Every season feels different, but this one is special for a lot of reasons, both as a teacher and as a parent.


Why I Love the Back to Dance Season

The back to dance schedule has always been one of my favorite times of the year. It’s a chance to reset, establish new routines, and set the tone for the months ahead. After a summer of workshops, camps, or even just a little extra downtime, dancers return with new energy and sometimes new shoes, leotards, or goals for themselves.

For teachers, this season is about striking a balance between structure and inspiration. I love creating lesson plans that challenge my students but also leave room for them to fall in love with the joy of movement all over again. This year, I’m especially excited about teaching more recreational classes. These dancers may not be preparing for competitions, but their passion is just as strong. They’re the kids who remind me why dance is for everyone, whether it’s once a week or every day.


My Weekly Teaching Schedule

This year, I’ll be teaching two days a week, Mondays and Tuesdays. Honestly, I like starting my teaching week right at the beginning, then having a lighter load later in the week. It gives me time to recharge and spend more time with my family, which is something I’ve been prioritizing more.

Here’s what my 2025–2026 back to dance schedule looks like:

Mondays

  • 4:15–5:15 PM: Twirl and Groove
    A preschool combo class for 3- and 4-year-olds that blends ballet and jazz. Preschool classes are some of my absolute favorites. Their curiosity, energy, and little personalities make every class a new adventure.
  • 5:15–6:15 PM: Ballet 2
    An intermediate ballet class for ages 8–11. At this stage, the dancers are starting to grasp more technical details while still holding onto that pure love of dance.
  • 6:15–7:15 PM: Ballet 3
    A more advanced ballet class. These dancers are ready for challenges, and it’s rewarding to help them refine artistry while building strength and discipline.

Tuesdays

  • 5:00 PM: Junior Ballet/Jazz
    A combo class for ages 6–8. This is such a fun age group because they’re learning how to focus while still being playful. The mix of ballet and jazz keeps them engaged and moving.
  • 6:00 PM: Mini Twirl and Groove
    Another preschool combo class. By the end of Tuesday, I’ll have taught two sets of preschoolers, and honestly, I wouldn’t have it any other way. Their energy is contagious.

A New Chapter as a Dance Mom

This season also feels different because my daughter will be joining me at the studio on Mondays. She’s finally old enough to take her own class and just hang out while I teach my other classes, and it’s something we’ve both been looking forward to. Mondays will become our special studio day.

She’ll have time to take her class, do a little homework, eat a snack, and just be part of the studio atmosphere. For me, it’s a chance to watch her grow as a dancer while also sharing the space that has been such a huge part of my own life. I know there will be moments where I’m teaching while she’s working quietly nearby, and then we’ll head home together. It feels like the start of a tradition I’ll cherish.


The Joy of Teaching Recreational Dancers

As I mentioned earlier, this year I’ll be teaching more recreational classes than company ones. For anyone unfamiliar, recreational classes are for kids who love dance but may also be involved in other activities—sports, music, school clubs. They’re not necessarily preparing for competitions, but they still want to dedicate time to quality dance training.

I love teaching company dancers and helping them prepare for the stage, but there’s something equally rewarding about recreational classes. These kids often bring such a fresh perspective. They’re there because they love it, and they remind me that dance doesn’t always have to be about the next performance or trophy. Sometimes, it’s simply about moving, learning, and having fun.


Preparing for the Season Ahead

Getting ready for the back to dance schedule takes more than just writing lesson plans. It’s about setting goals for myself as a teacher and for my students. This year, I want to:

  1. Encourage confidence in younger dancers. Preschoolers and elementary students thrive when they feel seen and celebrated. Small victories matter, like pointing their feet or engaging their legs for a little straighter line or remembering choreography for the first time.
  2. Build consistency with technique. Ballet is at the heart of everything we do, and I want my ballet classes to feel both structured and inspiring.
  3. Create a supportive classroom culture. Whether dancers are recreational or competitive, I want them to leave class each week feeling motivated and excited to return.

As I prepare for the new season, I’ve also been revisiting some of my favorite resources that help me feel organized and inspired in the studio. If you’re teaching in schools, my post on Classroom Set Up for Dance Educators in the Public School System (Elementary School) shares ideas for creating a structured learning environment even in non-traditional spaces. For those days when you need encouragement, 50 Affirmations for Dance Teachers: Staying Grounded and Inspired in the Studio can be a great reminder of your impact. I’ve also written about practical strategies in Using Your Voice as a Dance Teacher: A Powerful Tool for Classroom Management, tips for looking and feeling your best in The Best Dance Teacher Outfits, and playlists to elevate class energy in The Best Music for Ballet Class.


Balancing Teaching and Family Life

One of the biggest adjustments every season is balancing teaching with home life. As much as I love being in the studio, I also value time at home with my family. Teaching only two days a week allows me to give my best to my students without feeling stretched too thin.

It also means more time with my husband and kids. Whether it’s at the studio together on Mondays or at home on the other days. That balance makes me a better teacher and a more present parent.


Looking Forward

As I step into this new season, I’m filled with anticipation. The first plié, the first preschool giggle, the first correction that finally clicks, all of these moments make the back to dance schedule so meaningful.

I know there will be challenges too. Not every class runs smoothly, and not every student is motivated every week. But that’s part of the journey. Each obstacle is an opportunity to grow, both for my dancers and for me.

This year, more than anything, I’m looking forward to creating new memories—inside the classroom with my students and outside the classroom with my daughter. The dance studio has always been a second home, and now I get to share that home with her in a new way.

So here’s to the start of another season. May it be full of laughter, learning, and lots of dancing.


Happy Dancing!

Taylor B.

[email protected]

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