The first days back to school can set the tone for the rest of the session or year. This blog contains seven back-to-school dance activities that can help you create a welcoming and connected classroom community.

Can you believe families are already asking about the summer schedule?! It’s still five months away, but it seems some families plan earlier and earlier every year. Luckily, I’m wrapping up choreography for our spring production, so I can shift my focus to planning summer dance camps...or at least get the theme and registrations set. There are so many ways to structure camps. I prefer to stick with a regular evening schedule similar to the school year, while other studios off

Valentine’s Day can be a fun opportunity to bring joy, connection, and creativity into the dance classroom without chaos or loss of educational value. While I typically keep games skill-focused and purposeful, I also know how meaningful it can be to lean into seasonal themes that make students feel excited to come to class. Therefore... This month’s post is packed with Valentine’s Day dance classroom games, resources, and ideas that focus on friendship, kindness, teamwork, an

November. A chaotic high-energy season for any dance studio, especially for those preparing for winter productions like The Nutcracker. In the midst of perfecting choreography, it’s also the perfect time to take a moment to focus on gratitude and building community in your studio. This month is also National Native American Heritage Month, a time to honor the traditions and stories that bring movement and culture to life. Dance has always been a powerful way to share storie

It’s that time of year again when I round up the latest dance books to add to your collection and 2024 did not disappoint. Whether you’re...

I don’t know about you, but I find myself driving a lot, and often the last thing I want to do is listen to more music. After I soak up...

One of your senior dance students just asked if you’d write them a recommendation letter for college. Of course, you said yes, but how do...

In our previous blog post, SEL in the Dance Classroom Part 1, we explored how building a strong community helps support the social and...

In today's fast-paced and technology-driven world, it's easy for children to become disconnected from their emotions and the world around...

It's the season of gift giving! Are you ready? Every year parents ask me what types of accessories they should get their students for...

What to get a dance teacher for Christmas or any other holiday/occasion? This question comes up year after year. My preference is a personalized note on my strengths and noticed contributions with a gift card or cash. However, there is no one-size-fits-all when giving gifts. It is best to think of the individual and get something specialized for them. For example, veteran teachers probably already have cupboards full of personalized mugs, cocoas, and chocolates. While easy, t

Halloween in my favorite holiday. Naturally, every year I teach my students Thriller and have a dance party. So, thought I'd take a quick...

Are you in need of some fun behavior management tools to get your students' attention faster? Tired of the same old call-and-response...

It's back-to-school season again! Sites are a buzz with tons of products to buy, buy, BUY! And sure they're all fun, but what do you...

One of my favorite quotes said by Lou Holtz is, "In this world, you're either growing or you're dying, so get in motion and grow." I...

Are you looking for ways to help your dance studio grow? Nervous because families haven't pre-registered for next year? For a variety of...

Attention all tap teachers: Is your student still looking for a summer tap program? Perhaps you're searching for fall festivals your...

I find this time of year is like the calm before the storm. Costumes are ordered, and choreography for end-of-year productions are well...

It's "I Love to Read" month! Have you thought about incorporating a book, poem or any type of text into your dance classroom? Personally,...

Happy New year! It's time to plan your summer dance camps (if you haven't already). Every year my goal is to have my summer dance...