How to find a performing arts studio that builds confidence, cultivates talent and creates community in a nurturing environment.
Give an incredible gift to your child! Acting, singing, dancing, and playing are an integral part of becoming a musical theatre artist but are also essential for social-emotional development, and gross and fine motor skills. The performing arts are magical and it is never too early, (or too late!), to introduce yourself and your child to the performing arts. Singing and dancing are a universal human experience, and an absolute necessity to enhance and enrich our lives, build community and create healthy lasting relationships. Over the past 25+ years, I have seen first hand the positive impact that music, dance, and play have made on children and adults alike. It’s amazing to see those skills translate and support a child's success into young adulthood creating bonds that last a lifetime.
Studies have shown that music taps into multiple skill sets and introducing music as early as possible helps foster intellectual, emotional, social, motor, language, and cognitive development. Even if your little one seems to be just sitting there and not actively participating, brain connections and pathways are being made. Evidence has shown that music accelerates the maturation of the auditory pathway in the brain and increases its efficiency. Children with musical training in some capacity become more accurate in processing sound and it also improves their mathematical learning and overall literacy. Music connects the mind and body, so when you’re adding dance, and voice into the mix and allowing them to explore all of these disciplines through play and self-expression, you are giving an incredible gift to your child. They benefit magnificently with a deep appreciation for themselves, others and the world around them. Not only will you see them thrive in their academics and memorization skills, but also in their joy, confidence, creativity, and empathy towards others.
So how do you find the right teachers or studio for your child? Here are a few things to note when searching for the right place for you and your family:
- Class offerings: Find the class descriptions and see what your child is most into.
- Communication: Find out how the studio communicates. A vibrant studio will have lots to share.
- Student placement and progress reports: How do they evaluate advancement, are they open to discussing your child’s future in a thoughtful and kind manner?
- Conservatory, competitive or recreational: What kind of opportunities and training structure are you looking for?
- Dress code: A strong dress code ensures teachers can instruct at their best and students are learning their best. They aren’t hindered by restrictive clothing or hair.
- Facility: Clean, safe, fun, access to water, appropriate flooring, etc.
- Community and camaraderie: What is the atmosphere in the studio, are the teachers and staff friendly? Is the owner approachable and available? A sense of belonging is important!
- Quality of instructors: Instructors should be well trained in their discipline, well prepared, open to communication, kind, approachable and organized.
- Quality of performance and technique: Performances should look well-rehearsed and polished.
- FUN! Training is hard and can be grueling and challenging at times, but never should you lose the joy and fun in the art form or sense of achievement. If you're finding your child is losing their magic, it’s time to talk to the instructor/owner and/or re-evaluate if your child really enjoys the activity in general.
Are you looking for the perfect program for your child? Be sure to sign up for a free trial to check out Broadway Babies and Kids in San Carlos. Your first visit is free. Select your class from their offerings and sign up for the free trial class online here.
In addition, Broadway Babies and Kids hosts parties, camps, and drop-in play time!
Broadway Babies and Kids is located at 1101 Laurel Street in San Carlos, CA (650) 218-6831. Visit them soon!
