Helping our Children Grow: Creating a Respectful Environment for learning, growing and thriving.

Dear Pegasus Families,
​
In a world that often moves too fast and feels increasingly disconnected, the timeless values of courtesy and respect can sometimes feel overshadowed in today’s fast-paced world. These principles, once the cornerstone of our families, schools, and communities, are now qualities we must actively nurture. At Pegasus Dance Studios, we believe that respect is not just a value—it’s a foundation for growth, learning, and thriving as individuals and as a community.

So how do we create and model respectful spaces for our children? It begins with us—parents, educators, and mentors—leading by example and fostering environments where kindness, patience, and understanding are the norm. Respect isn’t just about how we treat others.  It's also about cultivating a deep sense of self-respect in ourselves and our children.

When children develop self-respect, they unlock the confidence to believe in their own worth and abilities. This self-belief becomes a guiding light, helping them navigate challenges and build meaningful connections with others. At Pegasus, we see this transformation daily in our classrooms and studios. By teaching respect for themselves and those around them, we empower our students to show up as their best selves—in dance, in school, and in life.

Respect truly is a two-way street. When we show respect to ourselves and others, we create a ripple effect of positivity, trust, and love. Let’s work together to ensure that our families and the spaces where our children learn and play are filled with this vital, life-affirming value.

The following guidelines reflect our shared commitment to creating a respectful and nurturing environment where every dancer can thrive. Thank you for helping us uphold these values and for being an integral part of our Pegasus family.


Studio Guidelines:  Creating Respectful Spaces for Dancers,  Families, and Studios

    "Respect for ourselves guides our morals; respect for others guides our manners."                       
      – Laurence Sterne

At Pegasus Dance Studios, we strive to maintain an environment where respect is at the core of everything we do. Respect for ourselves, others, and the spaces we share fosters a sense of community and mutual support. To support this vision of respect, we’ve outlined some simple yet meaningful guidelines. These reflect our shared commitment to fostering an environment where every dancer can thrive.

Dancers Show Respect for Themselves by:

1. Arriving promptly for class, ready to learn.
2. Wearing appropriate dance attire, for a neat, professional look.
3. Keeping jewelry minimal, limited to small stud earrings (if necessary). Ballet ties should always be tucked in.
4. Having their hair neatly secured, preferably in a bun, which is mandatory for ballet.

Dancers Show Respect for Others by:

1. Maintaining personal space and keeping hands to themselves during class.
2. Waiting quietly and patiently while others take their turn.
3. Entering the studio respectfully by waiting for the music to finish if they arrive late.
4. Listening attentively and speaking only when it’s a shared discussion or when addressed by the instructor.
5. Cheering on classmates with positive words and support.
6. Appreciating their parents for providing them with the opportunity to dance.

Dancers Show Respect for Their Teacher and the Art Form by:

1. Being prepared, properly dressed, and ready for class on time.
2. Listening actively when their teacher speaks.
3. Approaching their turn with focus and readiness.
4. Always asking permission before leaving the room.
5. Saying "thank you" to their teacher (and assistant teacher) at the end of class.
6. Demonstrating positive posture and body language, avoiding crossed arms, leaning on the barre, or appearing disinterested.

Dancers Show Respect for the Studio by:

1. Keeping gum, food, and drinks outside the studio.
2. Avoiding hanging or pulling on the barres.
3. Never running or engaging in unsafe activities that could lead to injuries.
4. Placing trash and recycling in the appropriate bins. Recycle and reuse whenever possible.
5. Helping keep the studio tidy and clean: If you use something, put it back where it belongs. If you see something out of place—such as garbage, pick it up and put it in the trash can; or a lost item, bring it to the reception desk. 

Parents Show Respect for the Dance Studio, Staff, and Faculty by:

1. Reaching out to staff through the appropriate channels for questions or concerns.
2. Partnering with teachers and staff to create a positive experience for all dancers.
3. Knocking gently before entering a classroom if a class is in progress.
4. Requesting assistance from the reception desk to retrieve a child from class if they need to leave early.
5. Standing away from the viewing window if it is evident that students are distracted.
6. Ensuring students are fully prepared for class, including bathroom breaks, snacks, water, and appropriate attire with hair neatly done.
7. Picking up students promptly after class to ensure smooth transitions for everyone.
8. Being mindful and courteous when parking or traveling to and from the studio, as we share this busy street with our neighbours. Together, we can maintain a harmonious environment for all.​​

---

Jane​

Jane Davis-Munro,  Artistic Director