Entering a classroom full of pupils and having to stand in front of them can be incredibly intimidating. Being in charge of so many people’s ambitions and hobbies is a significant responsibility that comes with becoming a dance teacher. It is never easy to enroll in a dance class. Here are some pointers for teachers who are taking on this responsibility for the first time:

Observe

Before you begin your batch, you should observe how other teachers conduct their lessons. Visit various studios and observe instructors who have been teaching for years and have a wealth of experience to share. Every instructor has a distinct feel and atmosphere, and they use a variety of teaching strategies in class. While attending a class, take notes on your phone or in a notepad about things that work for them. Pay attention to aspects such as how they walk into class, how they engage with students, the jokes they tell, nonverbal gestures they use when teaching, and facial expressions.

Training and Reading

Even if you are a teacher, you should never stop learning. Teachers must receive considerable training because they are responsible for transferring knowledge to a large number of students. It is critical to train both the body and the mind. To maintain one’s body fit and in shape, as well as to keep adding a variety of knowledge and talents as well as new techniques to one’s bucket, one should train intensively in various dance forms. Reading autobiographies of outstanding dancers and teachers can also assist in mental training. Reading books published by successful people on how to influence others, how to be an effective leader, the value of thinking large, helping others, and being grateful, among other things, can help one accomplish greater heights and transform oneself from a learner to an educator.

Attire

Students model themselves after their teachers. Students not only aim to imitate the dance motions, but they also model their hairstyles and dancing outfits after their instructors. When a new student starts a dance lesson, he or she forms an unintentional impression about the dance teacher based on what they are wearing. Find your way to dress for a dance lesson. Something that makes you feel at ease while simultaneously being out of the ordinary. It could be a set of large hoop earrings or a waist-tied shirt. Some teachers wear their hair in an untidy bun or half-tie. Students will begin to imitate these haircuts as well. Some female instructors wear basic makeup such as lipstick and eyeliner/kajal to help them project confidence while teaching. You can begin by experimenting with several options and discovering what works best for you through trial and error.

Be Yourself

Observing other teachers is essential. However, they must not be duplicated. Everyone has a unique personality, which results in unique talents and shortcomings. Methods of instruction that work for one instructor may not work for another. As a result, it is critical to be yourself while taking a class. If you are naturally amusing, then joking in class will work for you. If you are a planner, you will like planning out a class ahead of time. Try not to take a class like everyone else. Find your strengths and use them to your advantage. While taking a lesson, use your positives to project them. Be self-assured in who you are and don’t be afraid to make mistakes.

Evaluation and Feedback

Evaluation and feedback are part of the process of becoming a good teacher. One should not be afraid to solicit feedback from students on how the class went, and one should be open to hearing suggestions and willing to implement them. A senior dance teacher can also be asked to oversee or watch a class and provide feedback after the class is over. An outsider’s perspective is sometimes necessary to improve teaching approaches and uncover what isn’t functioning. Certain hints from another dance teacher can assist one in improving their teaching approaches and styles.

Teaching is a learning process in and of itself. Make no apologies for making blunders. In times of uncertainty, be confident in yourself since confidence is the key to success. Be thankful for what you have, be patient when teaching, and always be kind and humble. Teaching is a career of service. Dance teachers serve as mentors, offering advice and even emotional support when necessary. Don’t hold back when it comes to sharing your knowledge, information, and experiences.