Updated: January 15, 2008
A Dance Teacher's "Ten Commandments"
By: Elaine Bender, C.C.I.
Texas -- A DANCE TEACHER'S "TEN COMMANDMENTS"
Elaine Bender, C.C.I.
Clogging Director
Bruce Lea Dance Factory, Fort Worth, Texas
DO prepare fully for your class. Consider what your goal should be for that particular day for your students in any given class. Be clear in your own mind about expectation. Be sure it is realistic.
DO walk into the classroom neatly groomed and properly attired to teach dance.
DO wear a smile and maintain a positive attitude throughout the class. Leave your troubles outside the door. For the next 45 minutes to one hour you are a dance teacher, and nothing else matters during this period of time. Stay in character. Remember, all eyes are on you.
DO review steps or combinations from last week's class.
DO present new information in all the variety of ways which different people learn: Say it, show it, count it. Repeat.
DO make corrections in a positive way, which encourages students. Negativity leads to a sense of failure and damaged self-esteem.
DO lead and teach by example. If ever there is a discrepancy between what students "hear" you say and "see" you do, they will believe their eyes over their ears.
DO find something positive to say about each and every person in your classroom. Remember that some learn quickly, but others may be giving you their absolute best at a slower pace. Even the smallest accomplishments are praise worthy.
DO not limit positive comments to your students. Remember your fellow instructors. Give credit where credit is due. Like you, they love to hear that their hard work/choreography is noticed and appreciated. A kind word can absolutely make someone's day. Applaud their accomplishments and never criticize publicly, especially around students and parents.
DO your very best in every class each and every day. Your students have a choice where they spend their time. Show your appreciation for the confidence they have placed in you.
Reprinted from: The Texas Clogger - Fall 2006
Submitted by: Canadian Clogging News (CCN)
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