LEARNING STYLES

We all learn things in different ways. Here are some things to keep in mind while training preschool dancers. 

Dance is typically taught verbally as well as the “follow me” method. That works for the majority of dancers, however, some dancers learn in a more “hands-on” way.  

While teachers need to be careful when touching dancers, sometimes it is necessary to physically move the dancer through the movement. 

The use of analogies, and rhythmic exercises such as clapping the rhythm, etc. are good alternate ways of getting the material across to the students.  

It is the teacher’s responsibility to determine the learning styles of her students and use the necessary techniques to ensure the students learn the material to the best of their ability.  

Meet Tiffany Henderson 

Tiffany Henderson is an industry leader and dance business expert. Tiffany owns and operates multiple Tiffany's Dance Academy locations in Northern California. Her video-based teacher training system and curriculum, Twinkle Star Dance, is currently implemented in 300+ dance studios worldwide.

Use of Voice in a Preschool Dance Class

Children thrive on verbal feedback and are inspired by the teacher’s energy and enthusiasm for the material. Here are some tips to engage your students with your voice: 

• Try to slow down and lower your voice if the class is getting loud and wiggly or raise your voice and speed up if they are staring off into space. 

• Cue them ahead of the choreography or exercise with your voice, for example “Ready to Shuffle Step.” Say it like you want them to dance it.  

• Continue leading them with your voice during the entire class even as you are tending to the music, etc.

Meet Tiffany Henderson 

Tiffany Henderson is an industry leader and dance business expert. Tiffany owns and operates multiple Tiffany's Dance Academy locations in Northern California. Her video-based teacher training system and curriculum, Twinkle Star Dance, is currently implemented in 300+ dance studios worldwide.

Need more expression from your dancers? Perform for them

Preschool dance teachers need to do more than “pretending to be a butterfly” in order to engage their dancers and make them fall in love with dance.

Here are some tips on how  to “perform” the class for your dancers.  

1.  Make sure to elongate port de bras and stretch beyond your range.

2. If you want 100% of energy and execution, you must give them 200%.

3. Expression and Performance is not just achieved through facial expressions. Your whole body should exude energy as you are dancing and leading the class. Most of your energy should initiate in your core.

4. Sing the song loudly with the dancers as you move, no matter how well you sound!

5. Exaggerate your movement and highlight rhythmic phrases in the music.

Meet Tiffany Henderson 

Tiffany Henderson is an industry leader and dance business expert. Tiffany owns and operates multiple Tiffany's Dance Academy locations in Northern California. Her video-based teacher training system and curriculum, Twinkle Star Dance, is currently implemented in 300+ dance studios worldwide.

Help your dancers shine onstage

Even though your preschool dancers will most likely stand in one line onstage, they need to practice getting to that position, and holding their spacing.

Here are some tips for helping them understand how to enter the stage: 

1.  In the studio, have them hold hands and walk to one side of the room.

2. If not too dark, turn off the lights as the stage will be dim when entering.

3. Lead the dancers “onstage” holding the first dancer’s hand and walking them to their position.

4. Have the dancers stop, let go of hands, and find their “starting position.”

5. Turn on the studio lights and say “dancers go!”

6. Most likely they will bunch up into each other the first time they practice this. Make sure to have them do it again so they can practice it the correct way.

Meet Tiffany Henderson 

Tiffany Henderson is an industry leader and dance business expert. Tiffany owns and operates multiple Tiffany's Dance Academy locations in Northern California. Her video-based teacher training system and curriculum, Twinkle Star Dance, is currently implemented in 300+ dance studios worldwide.

Prepare and Set the Tone for a Great Preschool Class!

Preschool dancers will imitate your energy and intention. If you are stressed, they will be as well. Make sure to create a peaceful, inviting classroom environment as your dancers enter your dance studio. Here are some tips for setting the right tone for your classes.

1.  Arrive early to prepare yourself for the class - check music playlists, test sound, and review your lesson plan elements. Preparing yourself will ease your stress and allow for more attention on the dancers.

2. Review class roster to review dancer names and check for any new or trialing dancers.

3. Pre-set your dance shoes and any personal items you need for the class.

4. Have soft, engaging music playing.

5. Check dance studio lighting and remove anything in the studio that might distract the dancers.

6. Greet dancers by name at the class room door with a warm smile and welcome. Soften your voice and model the energy you want them to match as they enter.

Meet Tiffany Henderson 

Tiffany Henderson is an industry leader and dance business expert. Tiffany owns and operates multiple Tiffany's Dance Academy locations in Northern California. Her video-based teacher training system and curriculum, Twinkle Star Dance, is currently implemented in 300+ dance studios worldwide.