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 …
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, …
How to Teach Ballet Fingers: Perfecting Hand Shape for Graceful Movement
Teaching ballet fingers can be a nuanced challenge for dance educators. Hands in ballet are not just appendages—they’re an extension of the arms, head, and the overall artistry of the dancer. Fingers must appear soft and graceful, yet held with purpose, while the back provides the tension and support necessary for proper alignment. One of …
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 …
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 …
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 …
25 Inspiring Dance Quotes for 2025: Embrace New Beginnings and Set the Stage for Success
25 Inspiring Dance Quotes for 2025: Embrace the New Year with Fresh Energy As dancers, the start of a new year is like the first movement in a choreography—it’s full of potential, passion, and purpose. 2025 brings a chance to reset, realign, and renew our commitment to the art of dance. To inspire your journey …
Dear Dancer: A Letter from Your Dance Teacher
Today’s post is a little different from the usual! No tips or advice this time—just something that’s been weighing on my heart for a while, and I need to share it. Honestly, it makes me a bit emotional just thinking about it. So, here it goes! Watching you dance has always been one of my …
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 …
Mastering Your Next Dance Audition: Audition Guide
The holiday season is here, but for many dancers, it’s also the time to prepare for upcoming opportunities. Whether you’re eyeing a college program, summer intensive, or professional audition, staying ahead of the game is key. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know to make the most of your next dance …









