As a parent, you will hopefully want the absolute best for your child. From preparing well-balanced meals and scheduling routine physical exams to enrolling them in a good school, these tasks will help your child live a physically and emotionally healthy lifestyle. Of course, other activities are also beneficial for your child's wellness. Considering ballet has been proven to improve focus, confidence, social skills, and strength, enrolling your child in one of these classes is smart. Before your child's first class, you should invest in a few tools and apparel to help them succeed in ballet. Here are a few essentials to consider before your child's first ballet class.
Bag
Your child will need to bring a few things to each of their classes. Forgetting the items will cause your child to miss out on certain parts of their instruction and practice, so it is important to invest in a bag that can be packed and carried to each class. This will help you and your child stay prepared.
Choose a bag large enough to carry all of their supplies, but make sure it is easy for your child to carry in and out of class.
Apparel
Each instructor will offer their own recommendations on specific pieces of apparel your child will need for class. However, most ballet instructors will require the following:
- Leotard
- Unitard
- Tights
- Warmers
Invest in leotards in various styles that will work throughout the seasons. Sleeveless leatoard with a tutu skirt is great for the spring and summer, but long sleeve unitards with tights are best for the cooler seasons. Be sure to pack extra tights in your child's dance bag, as well, since they may need to change after tearing or ripping the pay they wear to class.
Shoes
Ballet slippers will also be necessary, but make sure to do your research before investing in these shoes.
The actual fit of these slippers is the most important factor to consider because you want your child to be comfortable and effective when completing their dance moves. The slippers should fit like a glove and not have any extra material gathering at the point of the foot. Your child should be able to curl their toes without any discomfort while wearing their ballet shoes.
Because your child's feet are constantly growing, make sure to have them measured periodically through the year. In most cases, you will need to buy larger sizes throughout the year.
The type of ballet slipper is also a factor to consider. Most instructors recommend a simple leather shoe with leather sole for beginners. Canvas ballet slippers are also becoming popular because they are comfortable, durable, and affordable.
Unless your instructor says otherwise, the color of the ballet shoes is not essential. Be sure to ask if your child will be required to wear a specific color.
Water Bottle
Ballet uses a lot of energy, which can cause your child to become dehydrated if they are not drinking water through their classes and practices. Most instructors allow breaks during class, but equipping your child with their own water bottle will ensure they are remaining hydrated and healthy.
Determining the amount of water your child needs each day can be difficult because there are many factors to consider. Experts recommend drinking 4 to 8 ounces of water for every 15 to 20 minutes of exercise. To stay hydrated and comfortable, your child should drink water throughout their ballet class.
Your child may not be a ballet star, but the classes are excellent for their physical and emotional health and wellness. This guide will help you prepare your child for a successful, enjoyable, and healthy ballet class. For more tips, check out retailers like Lea Marie.
