Nurturing Tots to Teens......

It is important for dance and theatre arts teachers to know their abilities and be willing to admit them.  Very few teachers can teach the two extreme age groups:  tots and teens.  There are a few, but not many.  The strong programs out there that keep success solid and students and families returning each year have teachers that teach within their abilities.  Teaching little ones is not just babysitting.  A good early childhood dance instructor knows how to blend a genuine love for children with the ability to keep order and structure in the classroom; and at the same time nurturing students' engagement and enthusiasm.  They must also know how to communicate and deal with parents in a very professional way.

There are many challenges to teaching young children in the arts; but the rewards are more than worth it.  If you are a teacher in this industry---make sure that you know your abilities and are teaching within them.  Parents and students quickly pick up on teachers that are outside their sweetspots!  The programs that are strong and successful have well-trained instructors that excel in the ages that they teach.