December Monthly Minute 2023

Greetings to our wonderful dance community!
As we celebrate the end of this year, we reflect on the incredible journey we've shared. Our studio stands as a space where passion meets discipline, and we owe this success to our guiding principles that fuel every dance step and every interaction within these walls.
Trust in the process with focus and consistency has been our steadfast companion, encouraging us to embrace the small changes that weave into the fabric of our dance journey. Kindness, our ever-present ally, has reminded us to prioritize compassion in every interaction—with each other, our surroundings, and the world beyond.
This month, we shine a spotlight on our third guiding principle: Respect. Respect acts as the heartbeat of our community, a force that binds us together and elevates our shared experiences. As we delve into this theme, we invite you to join us in fostering respect, not just in our studios but also as partners in raising exceptional individuals at home.
It's essential to recognize that teaching respect begins with embodying it. Just as we can't expect our children to be respectful if we're disrespectful to them, we must honor their uniqueness. Every child brings their own ideas, perspectives, and preferences to the dance floor. By granting them the freedom to make decisions and take risks (as explored in our November blog post), we model respect, paving the way for a reciprocal exchange.
In the spirit of this month's theme, let's delve into how we instill respect in our dance classes:
Respect for Self:

• Dancers demonstrate respect for themselves by arriving promptly and fully prepared for class. This small act sets the tone for self-discipline and positive self-esteem.

Respect for Others:

• Our dance community flourishes when dancers appreciate the opportunities provided by their parents. Waiting quietly, taking turns, and respecting personal space are foundational aspects that foster harmony among peers.

Respect for Teachers and the Art Form:

• Dancers honor their teachers and the art they are learning by actively participating during shared time, focusing, listening, and doing their best. Preparedness, proper attire, and expressing gratitude at the end of class further exemplify this respect. Being attuned to body language, avoiding habits like leaning on ballet barres, crossed arms, or eye rolling, enhances the overall learning environment.

Respect for the Studio:

• Lastly, dancers contribute to the well-being of our studio by leaving footwear at the front door, maintaining cleanliness, and tidying up after themselves. By doing so, they actively participate in upholding the respectful atmosphere we cherish.

As we embark on this month dedicated to respect, let's nurture an environment where everyone feels valued and heard. Together, we dance towards a future of shared understanding, kindness, and respect.
Thank you for being part of our extraordinary dance family!​

With a grateful heart,
Jane
Artistic Director