Parent Resources

What Should My Preschooler Wear to Ballet? Practical Tips for Little Dancers

Starting ballet is an exciting journey for preschoolers and their families. It’s the first step into a world of creativity, discipline, and joy. As a professional dancer, dance educator, and arts administrator, I’ve seen the difference proper attire can make in helping young dancers feel confident and focused. For parents wondering, what should my preschooler wear …

Teacher Resources

What to Do When Your Dance Class Is Misbehaving: Strategies for Success

Teaching dance is a rewarding experience, but let’s be honest—it’s not always easy. Some days, your students might seem more interested in testing boundaries than perfecting their pliés. Managing a misbehaving dance class can feel overwhelming, especially since every student comes from a unique background with different expectations for behavior. However, with the right strategies, …

Parent Resources Teacher Resources

The Benefits of a Dance Education: Why Every Student Should Experience the Joy of Movement

The Benefits of a Dance Education Dance is more than just a performance art—it’s a transformative educational experience that fosters creativity, discipline, and self-expression. As a dance educator, I’ve seen firsthand how dance can shape a person’s life, both on and off the stage. In this article, we’ll explore the numerous benefits of a dance …

Dancer Resources

Why Dancer Mental Health Is So Important

Why Dancer Mental Health Is So Important As dancers, we often push ourselves to the limit—striving for technical perfection, battling physical exhaustion, and navigating the emotional rollercoaster of performance and rejection. While dance can be a deeply fulfilling art form, it also takes a significant toll on mental health. Looking back on my career as …

Teacher Resources Themed Lessons

Celebrating Kwanzaa Through Dance: A Cultural Exploration for Young Dancers

Celebrating Kwanzaa Through Dance: Honoring Culture and Tradition As a dance educator, I’ve always found joy in exploring cultural traditions through movement. Dance allows us to connect deeply with the stories, values, and celebrations of diverse communities. One such celebration is Kwanzaa, a week-long holiday honoring African heritage, unity, and culture. This article delves into …

Dance Things

How Moana 2 Introduces Young Audiences to Polynesian Dance and Culture

This past weekend, my family and I had the pleasure of seeing Moana 2 in theaters. The experience was a great reminder of how storytelling can create opportunities for meaningful conversations and exposure to different cultures. We absolutely enjoyed the movie—it had everything: captivating singing, a heartfelt storyline, mesmerizing dancing, and a celebration of Polynesian culture. It …