CHOOSING THE RIGHT STUDIO FOR YOUR DANCER.

There are many things to consider when choosing a dance school for your child, including various questions a parent should ask to learn about the school, its philosophy, facilities, faculty, class size, customer service, and the overall operation.  Dance, in many ways, can be a very positive activity for children.  We at Pam’s Academy of Dance believe in giving our students very high quality dance instruction in a positive atmosphere, as well as educating both the parents and the students.  We have developed this Consumer’s Guide to help inform parents about dance.  We will continue to add to this guide throughout the year. view checklist here.

If most dance studios seem to have qualified, friendly teachers with experience teaching children, as well as a big show at the end of the year, aren’t they pretty much the same?  Does it really matter which place you decide to enroll at?  YES.

In addition to our past 15 years of experience and professional teaching staff, there are four very important aspects of dance education that make a tremendous difference in the quality of instruction your child receives, as well as the overall satisfaction and enjoyment of being involved with a dance program.

4 QUESTIONS YOU SHOULD ASK WHEN CHOOSING A DANCE PROGRAM FOR YOUR CHILD.

1. Can you tell me about your facilities?

We now have two locations to better serve the Morris, Minooka, Channahon, Coal City, Shorewood, and surrounding areas.  Both academies feature large dance studios with viewing windows.  All dance rooms are equipped with professional “floating” dance floors which prevent injury and reduce fatigue. A floating floor is a dance floor that rests on a system of high-density foam, to absorb the shock of jumping.  A high-density foam base is superior to a “sprung” floor, which usually consists of a wood structure built on the regular floor.   The flooring is a very important aspect, as constant jumping and landing can cause serious injury if performed on a hard wood, concrete, or tile surface.  The top layer of the floor is also an important factor.  A vinyl type “marley” surface is considered the best surface layer for both recreational and professional dance worldwide.  Facilities such as Royal Academy of Dance in London, American Ballet Theatre, and Riverdance – The Touring Show, all use marley floors as their dance surface.  A marley floor allows dancers to slide, with control, but is not slippery so there is less risk of slips and falls.  Very few studios use the “floating” floor and marley for their flooring because of the expense involved, and usually opt for a regular floor of tile or wood in their studio.

2. How much personal attention will my child receive?

In order to ensure enough personal attention to each dancer it is important to limit the number of students in each class.  There is no “magic” number that works for all ages and abilities.  Careful consideration is given to the age of the student, the type of class, and the level of difficulty of the class.  With younger students, it is easier for a teacher to maintain control over the class and ensure that each student understands the material if the class size is smaller. By keeping the class sizes smaller, we make sure that no fundamental concepts are being missed, as well as making sure each student is developing good habits and proper technique.

3. Can I get immediate assistance and customer service?

In many studios the teacher or the studio owner conducts the classes, as well as handles the administration.  By trying to do two jobs at once, the class may suffer as the teacher has to use class time for customer service issues, or the studio may have no customer service available if the teacher is in class.  For a positive experience, it is important to choose a studio that can assist you with your questions, even if a teacher is occupied in class.  Our studios have desk staff available regularly during the evenings, as well as office staff available during the day to assist anyone with questions, so immediate assistance is available.  We are committed to customer service.

4. How does your program surpass the standard expectations of the “stereotypical” dance studio?

Each studio is equipped with viewing windows so parents can watch each lesson.  We also offer regular parent observation days throughout the year.  This allows parents to monitor their child’s progress.  Our faculty members have degrees in dance or have comparable professional experience.  They continue their education through intensive dance training, performing in professional companies, as well as extensive travel around the country and abroad. This is what keeps us on the cutting edge of dance today.  Our annual recital is held at the Historic Rialto Square Theatre in Joliet.  Audiences of as many as 2000 people enjoy our spectacular show in comfort and style each year.  Whether you are seeking a once a week class or an intensive program to set your child on the path to a professional career, PAD is right for you!