Do you ever find yourself saying things like, “Kids just aren’t the same anymore,” or “Back in my day, we would never get away with that”? If you’re a dance teacher, chances are you’ve had those moments, watching students yawn during barre, chew gum in the middle of pliés, or check their smartwatches while you’re breaking down choreography. Maybe you’re battling constant chatter during instruction or phones buzzing in the corner of the room.
While it’s easy to get frustrated, the truth is, we can’t just complain. As dance educators, it’s our responsibility to lead with intention. We’re not just teaching steps. We are instilling discipline, professionalism, and habits that carry into every aspect of our dancers’ lives. And it all begins with one simple foundation: dance class etiquette.
What Is Dance Class Etiquette Anyway?
Dance class etiquette is more than just a list of rules. It’s a shared understanding of respect—for the teacher, the space, your peers, and the art form itself. It’s showing up ready to work, listening when instruction is given, and carrying yourself like a dancer at all times. While expectations may vary slightly depending on the style of class; ballet, hip hop, modern, tap ect., the core values remain the same.
When we take the time to teach and reinforce these standards, we’re not just preparing our students for class. We’re preparing them for college dance programs, professional rehearsals, conventions, competitions, and auditions. We’re giving them tools that will help them shine on and off the stage.
If you haven’t already, it’s helpful to set the tone at the start of the season, but don’t hesitate to schedule a mid-season refresher. Especially if your studio is gearing up for big events or traveling for conventions, now is the time to ensure everyone is on the same page.
Let’s break down the essential rules of dance class etiquette and why they matter.
1. Always Arrive On Time
Punctuality shows respect for the instructor and your classmates. If you’re running late, wait for the teacher’s acknowledgment before entering the studio. A quick eye contact and polite nod go a long way in maintaining the flow of class. If you know you’ll be late or absent, notify your teacher in advance when possible. And don’t forget to apologize after class for the disruption.
This lesson prepares students for professional environments, where being late can cost you the audition or the job.
2. Come Prepared and Avoid In & Outs
Make sure your dancer has used the restroom and has everything they need before class begins. Frequent in-and-out movement is distracting to others and breaks concentration. Emergencies happen, of course, but it’s important to reinforce that class time is valuable. Being prepared is a simple way to show commitment.
3. Listen When the Teacher Is Talking
It sounds basic, but this one rule is often broken the most. Dancers should not talk when the instructor is giving directions. Encourage them to try and find the answer themselves before asking a question that may have already been addressed. This promotes active listening and mental presence in class.
4. Stand Like a Dancer
Posture matters! Not just in performance but in how you present yourself during instruction. Slouching, leaning on the barre, or sitting down without permission can signal disinterest, even if unintentional. Encourage your dancers to always “stand like a dancer” and be ready to work.
5. Ask Questions the Right Way
Students should never feel embarrassed to ask for clarification. But they should also learn to raise their hand and wait to be called on. This teaches patience, self-awareness, and respect for the classroom dynamic. Questions are welcome! But how and when we ask them matters.
6. Demonstrate Good Spatial Awareness
Being aware of your surroundings is a must. Whether in a small studio or on a crowded competition stage, dancers need to know how to navigate space. Encourage students to give the teacher room, avoid crowding others, and move with intentionality.
7. Show Respect and Gratitude
At the end of class, it’s customary (and appreciated) to thank the instructor. A simple round of applause or a verbal “thank you” acknowledges the time and effort that went into planning and teaching. It also reminds dancers to stay grounded and grateful.
For more on the deeper values taught through dance, read The Benefits of a Dance Education: Why Every Student Should Experience the Joy of Movement.
8. Stay for the Entire Class
Leaving early disrupts the class environment. If you know you have to leave, inform the teacher ahead of time and exit as quietly and respectfully as possible. Just as you wouldn’t walk out of a rehearsal or performance, students should be encouraged to stay and finish strong.
9. Always Try Your Best
Even when a class feels too hard or too easy students should give their all. If the combinations are challenging, that’s where growth happens. If they feel under-challenged, encourage them to focus on refining technique or performance quality. Effort is everything.
10. Let Teachers Do Their Job
This one is for the parents. Allow the teacher to manage classroom behavior. If something needs to be addressed, trust that the instructor will let you know. Communicate after class if needed, but don’t disrupt instruction from the viewing window or through a mid-class pep talk.
Thinking about the best learning environment for your child? You might also like How to Choose the Right Dance Studio: Competition Dance vs Classical Training.
11. Limit Technology Use
Phones and smartwatches should be kept off and away unless permitted. Not only are they distracting, but they pull dancers out of the moment. Teach students that class time is sacred—it’s their space to focus, learn, and grow.
12. Treat Every Class Like an Audition
This one might seem intense, but it’s an industry reality. You never know who’s watching. When dancers treat every class as a chance to improve, showcase professionalism, and grow their artistry, they develop habits that will carry them far in life not just in dance.
Setting the Tone with Love and Leadership
Correcting behavior shouldn’t come from a place of embarrassment or anger. It should come from love, mentorship, and the desire to see your students succeed. Discipline and high expectations, when delivered with care, create a culture of respect and accountability.
Dance isn’t just about the steps it’s about the mindset. The self-awareness. The discipline. When we reinforce dance class etiquette, we’re not just shaping better dancers. We’re raising leaders, artists, and changemakers who will carry these lessons with them forever.
So let’s be consistent. Let’s model the behavior we want to see. And let’s create a studio culture that every dancer, new or seasoned, can be proud of.
Happy Dancing!
Taylor B
