As we emerge from COVID-19 and embark on our, “new normal,” we are all looking forward to being back together in the studio, however different it may look. While Zoom classes were a lifesaver, a “filler,” to keep our students dance education going, we need to still be aware that we are far from what was. 

Providing your dancers with the amazing training you always gave them in person will be a welcomed return for teachers and students alike. Rehearsals and choreography-setting will also be an exciting delight, no doubt feeling energized and ready. 

With all these “normal” pieces returning, it’s also essential to remember the other part of this however; the psychological and emotional well-being of your dancers coming out of this. There are so many factors that go into making your return successful and positive for everyone - the following three things will help ensure you are taking care of your dancers in other ways that matter too.

1. Safety: What protocol and measures have you implemented to make dancers and their families feel their home studio is safe? While everyone has most likely done this already, what the goal of this is, (in addition to protecting our dancers from getting sick) is psychological. It’s important to pay attention to young dancers who are already feeling uneasy about mask wearing and social distancing in their studios. They need reassurance the space they are in is still secure. Without this, it’s possible to see increased anxiety, lack of focus and concentration and uncertainty. 
2. Expectations regarding progress: As with regular schooling, kids are coming out of homeschooling and online platforms, many of whom did not find it easy. Busy parents were also trying to work full time and be a full time teacher to their kids. This was not normal homeschooling. This was homeschooling during a pandemic- very different. Where their progress may or may not be where it would have been without COVID, we must remember they may even have fallen a little behind. That goes for their dance training too. And that’s OK. It’s not their job to come in and meet our expectations but for us to meet each child where they are and help move them forward. Having an awareness and plan to implement this way of teaching is essential, especially for those kids worrying they’re behind or feel pressure to succeed or be at a certain level. Reminding dancers of this will be key; that we are all in this together, navigating uncharted territory. But, we will get there because dancers in particular are resilient and in a loving environment with people nurturing their success.
3. Mindfulness matters: Just because you may re-enter the physical space doesn’t mean everyone has bounced back. Taking time to check in with dancers and ask them how they’re doing, how they’re feeling, what they’re thinking, etc., will also be essential. This can come in the form of conversations, journaling, meditations, improvisations, choreography projects, etc. Remember, it doesn’t have to be heavy. It can be light-hearted, but their mental health and hearts are important and dance teachers are in a position and an amazing place of trust with our kids to check in on them. 

As we move forward, we hope you all are safe and remain so. This has and is still not an easy journey for anyone. We hope you and your dancers navigate these waters seamlessly so we all come out the other side and are dancing together in our home studios for many, many healthy years to come!

Good luck to everyone. Stay safe!

Jess

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