Why should you consider getting your kids involved in dance competitions?
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The world of competitive dance can be complex, making it understandable that you may have a challenging time understanding this activity. However, the benefits of this passion are clear. This activity delivers a host of invaluable skills and gifts that will benefit your child in many ways. Here are five reasons that you should consider getting your child involved in dance competitions.
Builds confidence
Although some dance studios argue that competitions are not useful, the detractors point to the massive opportunities provided by these events to build confidence. While there is an inherent pressure built into competitions to perform, conquering this task is an excellent way to build confidence in your child. Performing in front of an audience and being judged for these abilities shows your child how to carry themselves with confidence. The thrill that comes with doing their best and being rewarded for their efforts will encourage your child to always put their best foot forward, regardless of the situation. In addition, dancing also naturally boosts a child’s body image and self-esteem as they see the results of their hard work.
Teachers grace in all situations
By definition, a dance competition is indeed competitive. However, this experience can teach a child to be graceful in all situations. There will always be winners and losers in every situation. And there is a good chance that your child will experience both sides of the coin. Learning to be graceful in defeat and in victory is a life lesson that will pay off big dividends for your child. The competition will also teach your child how to respond to adversity and use it as a motivator to keep working hard.
Encourages teamwork
Dance competitions are a great way to teach your child the value of teamwork. Even if you are an individual performer, your own score will go toward the team total in a competition. If they are competing as a team, they will learn how the sum of the whole is greater than its parts. This means that they will realize that they are stronger as a team if everyone does their part. Learning to respect their teammates for the individual talents and gifts that they bring to the team will be something that they will carry with them as they age and experience different life situations.
Broadens life horizons
Competitive dance undoubtedly broadens your horizons. This is particularly true the more that you move up the competitive ladder. The biggest and most exclusive events require travel, helping to expand your mindset as you experience new places and cultures and meet people from all over the world. Not only will your child learn from the actual competition, but they will also gain invaluable skills and knowledge that come with traveling to new places and having to take care of their business. You can make the most out of these opportunities by teaching them ownership of packing their luggage and making them ensure that they have everything that they need for the competition day. For example, put them in charge of their own competition dance bags so that they learn to take responsibility for themselves. The opportunity to travel to pursue your passion is something that will stay with your child for the rest of their life.
Teaches life skills
While competitive dance is designed to be fun, it also requires that the participant own their obligations and act accordingly. In addition, the competitive dance will also show your child how to most effectively manage their time. When they have teammates counting on them to learn their routines, they will learn accountability for their actions. The social aspects of competitive dance will teach them how to be a supportive and encouraging friend. All of these skills will provide a strong structure as they grow older and move into the real world.
When you step back and look at all of these benefits, it becomes clear that your child will greatly benefit from pursuing this passion. As with any activity, it is important that you let your child take the lead in this process. This will ensure that they get the most out of it as they grow and thrive through the opportunities.