10 Why's of our teaching Methodology

In an effort to enhance your student's classroom experience and create a successful dance experience, Monet Dance Performing Arts Studio (MDPAS) would prefer parents to limit their involvement during dance classes.  However, below are ways you can encourage your student and support their instructor in the classroom. 

​

1.    Why a specific uniform and shoes?
Dance is a discipline: it starts with the proper clothing and shoes for class. In most cases, we have witnessed that if a student does not have the uniformed attire and their classmates are in their uniform; the student will prefer not to participate fully, withdraw, and sometimes are upset. Improper shoes can result in injury.

​

2.    Why Dots? 
In most of our younger classes, MDPAS use dots or tape marks for spacing. Our instructors encourage dancers to use their dots to stand, sit, and dance on for spacing. As they grow and mature, this will eventually enhance their stage awareness.

​

3.    Why stickers or stamps for rewards? 
MDPAS instructors use fun stickers and stamps every class to reward our dancers for their hard work. If your student does not participate or listen, we may use the reward as a goal to work harder.

​

​

4.    Why are parents not invited to the classroom?
MDPAS instructors keep the classroom closed to all parents until parent observation in order to properly instruct each dancer uninterrupted. All children learn differently; these precious minutes in class together give our instructors a chance to observe your student's learning styles and approach our pedagogy accordingly. Instructors will come to get parents of small children for bathroom visits and emergencies.

​

5.    What can I expect on our first day of class? 
Each child is different. Some new students may be nervous or shy, some may even cry. Parents should encourage their toddlers or young student to enter the classroom. Parents can have a seat in the provided lobby (if available), bring a book to read or craft to do while they wait. The first few weeks may be rough; however, this will improve over time.

​

​

6.    Why the repetition? 
MDPAS’ pedagogy includes a syllabus of repetitive warm-ups and activities. These ballet-based techniques prepare our young dancers with age-appropriate movements and confidence that will improve with consistency.

 

7.    How do I prepare my dancer?
•    Be on time or early
•    Have a student in proper uniform/shoes
•    Have students use the bathroom before class.
•    Drop student off, hug, kiss, and go
•    Attend parent observation
•    Encourage good classroom etiquette
•    Partner with your dance instructor to discuss your student’s progress.

​

​

8.    How do I keep in touch or find out more about the studio’s pedagogy?
Parents are welcome to contact our dance education and program director Ms. Dee by email at monetdancepas@gmail.com

​

9.    What are MDPAS’ goals for your student? 
Our methodology is in place to assist you as a parent. Our number one goal is to partner with you in shaping well-rounded little people. We want to start by teaching them independence, respect, self-discipline, teamwork, and then the love of dance. Although we know each of our students will not go on to become professional dancers, performers, or dance educators MDPAS instructors value our time with your student. We believe by instilling a true value and love of the art form now, through a fun-loving and consistent classroom environment, we will ultimately produce lifelong advocates of the arts.

​

​

10.    How can I help as a parent/guardian? 
•    Encourage your dancers to always have their proper dance uniform on and bring a water bottle. 
•    Remind them to listen so they can learn, feel proud, and receive their sticker. Have short and sincere conversations about what they have learned. 
•    You can enjoy the fruit of all they have learned at the parent observation and/or end-of-semester recitals if applicable. 

 

​

​

We appreciate you entrusting your child’s dancing instructions with us.  Thank you for being a part of the Monet Dance Performing Arts Studio family.  We encourage you to ask questions, get involved, and enjoy this beautiful experience with your dancer.