A Valley Stream Mom fan contacted me about dance school advice. Is it that time already? Yep. I have never taken dance but I have been around dance for at least 12 years. As a former pageant director and coach I have become pretty good at judging technique after working with very talented teens over the years.
When searching for a dance school, I advise you to:
1. Ask for a DVD of their last dance recital. Critique the dancers, costumes, and music. I recently learned from a mom that she witnessed a dance group performing to music with explicit lyrics.
2. Be weary of the amount of trophies or posters announcing their competition wins. I don't personally want my daughter in a school that's too heavy on competing because it becomes more about the dance school reputation and less about teaching my kid technique. Ever watch
Dance Moms?
3. Most schools do not invite you into the studio during class, but it doesn't hurt to ask. However, if you can hold your ear up to the door, try to listen how the teacher speaks to the kids. If it's demeaning, run. I believe that you can speak to a child and correct their technique without killing their self esteem and pissing me off.
4. My daughter's tap teacher recently said that she doesn't teach what she can't do. Run. Your child's training will be limited. Hmmm...looks like I have a decision to make soon. However, if the school offers what I believe are called Master's classes which bring in outside dancers in to teach certain techniques, stay put. That's a good sign.
5. Former Miss New York says: "I would read the teacher's bios and see what their background is. Make sure they have strong credits and depending on what you are looking for, technique, performance, etc... match it to what your goals are then I would say you'd have a pretty good idea."
6.
Michigan Dance School Owner says: "A few things to consider...at a young age being sure that the teachers want the students to accomplish and excel in the basics. To many places are focused on grooming strictly competitive dancers and that is how they teach. Also, how does the studio feel? Most places will allow you to view a class or may even let you try one out."
7. She continues and says, "A strong teaching staff but I have learned over the years that even though your resume has a lot of impressive items on it, it does not mean that you are a great teacher, that just means you have personal talent. Look at the dancers from the beginners up to advance and see how the students seem to be progressing."
Continue reading below for feedback on local dance schools
Fuszion Dance School 
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