If most dance studios seem to have qualified friendly teachers, who are experienced teaching children and a big show at the end of the year, aren't they all pretty much the same? Does it really matter which place you decide to enroll? Yes. There are 4 main things that can make a huge difference in the quality of instruction your child receives and the overall enjoyment and satisfaction of being involved with a dance program.

1. Can I get immediate assistance and customer service?
In many studios the teacher or the studio owner conducts classes and attempts to handle administration of the studio. 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 a class. To have a good experience it is important to choose a studio that can assist you with details like costumes or schedules, even if a teacher is occupied in a class. SDS has office staff on hand during all regular class times, so you can get immediate assistance.

2. What type of dance floor is used?
Dance is a very physical activity that requires a lot of jumping, which can put stress on bones and joints. Most dance footwear does not provide any cushioning or support, so the shock of dance movement can place a lot of pressure on the knees and back of a dancer. The best way to prevent against potential injury is by choosing a studio with a professional "floating floor." 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.

All three of our dance studios have floating Marley floors that have high density foam blocks under the floor surface and a Marley top surface. Our special floors help reduce the risk of injuries and allow students to dance longer without getting tired.

3. What are the "extras" required for the year end show?
Most studios put on a year end show in a professional style theater. Students that perform in the show must have a costume for their dance number. Some studios "mark-up" costumes to make a profit. Our studio does not need to profit on costumes. The only fees added to costumes cover tax, shipping, and staff time it takes to place the orders. You will be required to purchase the appropriate tights and shoes. A dancewear store comes into the studio to help you get the correct items so that you do not have to run around the city looking for your supplies. T-shirts, videos and pictures are not mandatory, but you do have the option to purchase each of these items, without pressure.

 

4. Who is teaching your children?
Many dance studios use dancers who have moved up the ranks of the studio to teach entry level classes. Sometimes these teachers are teenagers and even though they may be wonderful dancers and great kids they are too inexperienced to be in charge of children. At SDS, LLCC all of the teachers are adults. Even our entry level classes are taught by teachers with years of experience. You can be sure your child will be taught by qualified and experienced teachers.