One of the hardest things for me as a teacher and educator is watching my students get frustrated in class. I design my lessons to push them and challenge them, but my goal is never to discourage. Dance should be a source of joy, growth, and confidence. When I see a student feeling frustrated, flustered, or overwhelmed, I know it’s time to step in and support them. At the end of the day, my job is to edify, build up, and never tear down.
Here are some actionable steps I take to help my students overcome these difficult moments and find the joy in dance again.
1. Recognize the Signs Early
The first step is to keep a close eye on your students and recognize the signs of frustration before it becomes overwhelming. Some students may be visibly upset, while others may withdraw or become uncharacteristically quiet. These little cues can give you insight into when a student might need extra encouragement.
If you notice these signs, take a moment to check in with them. A quick, quiet word of encouragement can make a huge difference. Letting them know that you see their hard work and that it’s okay to struggle helps create a supportive, understanding environment.
2. Break Down the Steps and Simplify
Sometimes frustration arises from trying to tackle too much at once. Breaking down a complex combination or step into smaller, manageable parts can make a world of difference. By focusing on one element at a time, students can build their confidence gradually, making the full movement feel less intimidating.
If I see a student struggling, I might pause and walk them through each part slowly, adding pieces one by one. This approach shows them that progress is made one step at a time, reinforcing the idea that persistence pays off.
3. Incorporate Positive Affirmations
In moments of frustration, it’s essential to help students shift their mindset. Encouraging positive self-talk is one of the most powerful tools in building resilience. I’ve created Positive Dance Affirmation Cards for this purpose. Each affirmation card is designed to remind dancers of their strength, grace, and determination.
Before class or after a particularly challenging moment, I might have students pick an affirmation to focus on. It gives them something positive to repeat to themselves, building confidence and resilience over time.
For more ideas, check out Affirmations for Dancers: The Power of Positive Thinking and Affirmations for Preschool Dancers: Building Confidence and Joy from an Early Age. Affirmations are a powerful way to help dancers focus on their strengths.
4. Encourage a Growth Mindset
One of the biggest lessons I want my students to learn is that mistakes are part of the process. Dance, like any skill, requires time, practice, and patience. Encourage students to see challenges as opportunities for growth rather than as setbacks.
I remind my students that every dancer, no matter how skilled, has been where they are now. Encouraging phrases like, “Every professional dancer struggled with this too,” or “This is how you get stronger,” help students see that their efforts are part of a journey. Over time, this mindset fosters resilience and grit.
5. Celebrate Small Wins
It’s easy for students to feel overwhelmed by focusing only on what they can’t do yet. Celebrating small victories—whether it’s nailing a turn, improving balance, or mastering one section of a combination—can boost their confidence and motivate them to keep going.
In my class, I make it a point to highlight progress. Acknowledging a student’s effort, even if they’re not “perfect,” shows them that improvement is what matters. Small wins add up over time, helping students feel accomplished and proud of their journey.
6. Give Space When Needed
Sometimes, stepping back is just as important as stepping in. Students who are visibly flustered or overwhelmed may need a moment to regroup on their own. Offering them a quick water break, or even suggesting they take a breath and reset, can give them the mental space to come back stronger.
In these moments, it’s helpful to let students know that taking a step back is not giving up—it’s just part of the process. Allowing them this time can help them feel more in control and ready to try again.
7. Use Encouraging Language and Body Language
Our words and tone as teachers set the atmosphere for our students. Using encouraging language like “You’re almost there,” “Great effort!” or “Keep going!” can uplift students during challenging times. Even our body language—maintaining open, welcoming posture and eye contact—shows students we’re on their side.
Our encouragement, whether verbal or nonverbal, sends a message of support. We’re telling our students that it’s okay to struggle, but that they’re never alone in that struggle.
Final Thoughts: Keep Building Up
Seeing your students thrive is one of the most rewarding parts of being a dance teacher. While it’s essential to challenge them, it’s equally important to be there to guide, encourage, and lift them up. By using these techniques, you’re not just teaching them dance—you’re helping them develop resilience, confidence, and the belief that they can overcome any obstacle.
Encouraging your students doesn’t take much, but it makes all the difference in their journey. Let’s keep building up our dancers, one positive step at a time.
For more inspiration and tools, check out Top 50 Inspirational Dance Quotes for words of wisdom that motivate dancers at every level.
Happy Dancing!
Taylor B
