With the new dance season approaching, it might be time to switch dance studios. The process can feel overwhelming. It can be hard to know if a studio is right for you and what its green and red flags might be. It is important to find a studio that is going to help build your confidence, skills, and character.
Why Green Flags Matter
Green flags are the positives that a studio has to offer you. This can be anything from the classes to the dance floor. Finding the right studio for you is so important because a studio is not only meant to help you grow as a dancer but also as an individual. The teachers and classes should challenge you, but also build up your confidence. Your studio should be a place that inspires you and makes you want to dance!
Green Flag #1: All about the Energy
Pay attention to the energy that you feel in the studio. It should feel welcoming, uplifting, and positive. You should feel as though you are seen, even if you are only visiting. Look at how the other dancers cheer each other on. Are they clapping for each other or just watching? If you take a class, you should be leaving feeling better than when you came.
Green Flag #2: Supportive Teachers
Teachers are a big part of every dance studio. Finding the right studio means finding teachers who match your needs, too. They should be able to give constructive criticism, but also tell you when you are doing well. A good teacher is going to want to see you improve and thrive throughout your time in the studio. They will push you to constantly improve, but not to the point of burnout. They should value your mental health just as much as your physical health.
Green Flag #3: Staying Inclusive
Dancers come in all shapes and sizes, and any good dance studio should be welcoming and open to that fact. They should want to have that diversity of style, personality, and voice in their studio. This encourages better storytelling and chances for everyone to feel seen. It is not bad to stand out, and those differences should be celebrated.
Green Flag #4: Room to Grow
Dancers need opportunities and changes to keep growing. This means classes are offered in different styles, levels, and choreography. You should be encouraged to try new styles and skills because that is how you become a better dancer. Growth should always be celebrated more than trophies.
Green Flag #5: Open Communication
It is important to feel as though your voice is being heard by those around you. Teachers should listen to any concerns or comments you may have and be willing to have open conversations about them. Questions should be encouraged, not seen as disruptions. Pay attention to the values that the studio has and how they uphold them.
You deserve a studio that helps you become the best version of yourself. Trust your gut about whether one feels right for you or not. The right studio is going to help you grow into a better dancer and a better individual.
