I’ve been meaning to sign Princess up for dance class for a while. But I held off because I wanted her to focus on swimming lessons. Now that she’s getting older, I figured that it would be a good time to add another activity to the mix and enroll her in dance and music camps. Plus, she’s been asking us about joining for the past few months. Before we purchased the dancing gear and shoes, I wanted to make sure that this would be something she’d really like. So, this weekend, we had her first day at dance class.
I wasn’t sure what to expect. It’s not like I took dance as a kid. The only thing I know are what I see on shows like, “Dancing With the Stars” and “So You Think You Can Dance?” Obviously, I wasn’t expecting pros at this dance studio. However, I wasn’t sure about the inner workings of the classes, and how strict the teachers would be. Luckily, some of her friends had been taking lessons there, which would make the transition easier.
I spoke with the teacher who informed me that the kids were preparing for their recital, so Princess would be behind on the dance moves. The assistant teachers were there to help her with basics and whatnot. I knew it would be a rough start, but I wasn’t prepared for the whining that ensued.
“Mommy, I want a tutu?” she asked.
“Not right now,” I responded.
“But, I really want one,” she moaned.
I started to have second thoughts about bringing her this early. You see, I signed her up for the summer session which begins in July. But the lady I spoke with over the phone mentioned that we’d be able to come in for a trial to see if it would be the right fit. I thought it would be a great idea, until now. I didn’t want to go through the hassle of buying tap and ballet shoes, tights and leotards to later find out that she’s not into it. Her Dad flashed me his look of disapproval, and asked why we came. We were about to leave when one of the instructors came over and told us they were about to start.
Upon hearing that the class would last and hour, my hubby decided to wait in the car. Baby O and I sat in the lobby and chatted with some of the other parents. About 20 minutes in the instructor ushered Princess out of the class. Judging by the tears rolling down her cheeks, I knew this wasn’t good. “She wants Mommy,” the lady said. After giving her a pep talk and hug, she went rejoined the class. Then about ten minutes later she reemerged and said she needed to go potty. At this time, I passed Baby O over to one of the other moms and followed her to the bathroom.
“Are you having fun?” I asked.
“I’m ready to go home,” she said.
“The class is almost over. You can’t leave now,” I replied.
She ended up staying until the class was over. But, I already knew that there would be no second time. Once the ‘end of year’ trophies were handed out, I knew I’d probably have to endure more waterworks because she wouldn’t be receiving one. However, the instructor surprised her with a ribbon and thanked her for attending the class, which brightened up her mood.
On our way home she asked about the next lesson. “Does this mean you want to go back?” I asked. “Yes,” she responded. She then explained that she was a little sad, but not anymore. I guess she just had a case of the first day blues.
Does you child take dance? How was it the first day?