Evening Routine for Dance Teachers: Creating Balance After a Long Day
As a professional dancer, arts administrator, and mom of two, my days are packed to the brim with responsibilities. While I’ve worked hard to establish a solid morning routine (Morning Routine for Dance Teachers), my evenings remain a work in progress. To be honest, by the time I put my daughter to bed, I usually want to crawl right into bed myself.
However, as 2025 approaches, I’m determined to create a calming evening wind-down routine—something that will help me end the day on a positive and peaceful note. Even if it doesn’t happen every night, I’m committed to making it a habit on the nights I’m home early. Here’s what I’ve come up with so far and what I’m working toward.
Why an Evening Routine Matters for Dance Teachers
After spending the day teaching, managing administrative tasks, and caring for my family, having an evening routine feels like an essential tool for unwinding and preparing for the next day. It’s not just about getting tasks done—it’s about carving out time for myself to reflect, recharge, and connect with loved ones.
For dance teachers like me, establishing an evening routine can help ease the transition from the high energy of the day to a more restorative nighttime mindset.
My Current Evening Routine (A Work in Progress)
6:00-7:30 PM: Getting Home and Dinner Prep
Most nights, I arrive home between 6:00 and 7:30 PM. If it’s a teaching night, this often gets pushed later. My focus during this time is on helping my daughter with her homework, prepping dinner, and doing a bit of light cleaning. I try to keep dinners simple, often relying on crockpot meals or quick recipes when my day has been extra busy.
7:30-8:00 PM: Family Dinner
Dinner is family time. It’s a moment to pause, enjoy a meal together, and talk about the day. I treasure this time as a way to connect with my husband and kids after a long day.
8:00-8:30 PM: Clean-Up
After dinner, I tackle the kitchen—putting away leftovers, washing dishes, and tidying up. Keeping the space clean helps me feel a sense of order before heading into bedtime routines.
8:30-9:30 PM: Bedtime Routine for My Daughter
Bath time, storytime, and prayers are part of my daughter’s nightly routine. It’s a chance for us to bond and wind down together. I’ve recently started using a book light to read while I sit with her as she falls asleep, sipping tea to relax.
10:00-11:30 PM: Reflection and Connection
After my daughter is asleep, I take some time to reconnect with my husband. Whether we’re catching up on the day, planning for tomorrow, or just enjoying each other’s company, this time is precious. I also take a few minutes to reflect on the day—what went well, what I can improve, and what I’m grateful for.
11:30 PM: Bedtime
By 11:30 PM, I’m in bed, ready to rest and recharge for another busy day.
Goals for My Evening Routine
This routine is far from perfect, but I’m committed to refining it. My main goals for 2025 are:
- Consistency: Even if I can’t stick to this routine every night, I want to make it a habit on nights I’m home early.
- Mindfulness: Creating moments of calm, whether through tea, reflection, or reading, is a priority.
- Flexibility: As a dance teacher, some nights end late, and that’s okay. My goal is to adapt the routine without abandoning it entirely.
Related Articles
If you’re looking to create balance in your own routine, check out these articles for inspiration:
- Morning Routine for Dance Teachers: Finding Balance as a Mom, Teacher, and Arts Administrator
- Setting Dance Goals for 2025: Why It Matters and How to Do It Right
- How to Become a Dance Teacher
- A Day in the Life: Dance Teacher Edition
Establishing an evening routine is a journey, and I’m learning to embrace the process. If you’re a dance teacher, arts administrator, or busy parent working toward balance, know that it’s okay to take small steps. What does your ideal evening routine look like? Let me know in the comments—I’d love to hear your thoughts!
Happy Dancing!
Taylor B
