Seeing the Silver Lining: Top 4 Takeaways of Online Dance Classes

Seeing the Silver Lining: Top 4 Takeaways of Online Dance Classes

Month number 2 of quarantine is almost complete and let’s be real… staying positive is not an easy task. If you let your mind start to wander too far, heading into worry-land happens pretty quickly. We get it and we’re here to offer support wherever we can. 

There is one positive thing that we all agree on at Positions: seeing your kids on zoom every week makes all of the madness disappear for a few hours. Not only do we love seeing their faces, but we’ve also been having tons of magical moments in class. While our online classes could never take the place of being in the studio, they are SO valuable during this time. 

Between our free and paid facebook groups, our LIVE classes on Zoom, and other fun initiatives on our public facebook page, we’ve completely dedicated ourselves to moving our programs online. As we witness our students learning in new ways and smiles flying left and right, we’ve been seeing the silver lining more and more. 

Check out the Top 4 Take-Aways of Online Dance Classes:

1. A Slice of Normalcy

Any sense of stability that your child was used to has probably shifted during this time. Schedules, schooling, social interaction, end of the year festivities… you name it, it’s probably been changed or non-existent. Which is why we LOVE providing our weekly classes. 

Your child sees their regular teacher just like normal. Your child can depend on the same class every week just like normal. Your child practices their recital dance just like normal. Your child reviews the same skills they were learning before quarantine just like normal. We hope this has lowered the levels of crazy at your house, even if it’s just for an hour each week! 

2. Staying Connected

One of the best feelings is when we unmute a child on zoom and they start exploding with stories and questions! We love watching as they finally let it all out. When we are all dancing together on the screen, everyone is reminded of the community we built at the studio earlier in the year. The kids feel like they belong again. We know they miss their friends and teachers, so we love giving them a chance to connect each week. 

3. Individual Attention

Besides dance class, when was the last time your child heard someone outside of their family say their name? It’s probably been a while. When we give our students corrections via zoom, we watch as their faces light up and they stand a little taller each time. It’s seriously magical!!

We recently read this article by the Institute for Family Studies that outlines 4 things that children need right now. Number one on their list is to feel heard. While our kids are muted, it may be difficult to accomplish this on Zoom. BUT, we do make them feel SEEN, which we would argue is EVEN better. It’s a good feeling to know that others are noticing you, seeing you, and investing in your success. 

4. A Creative Outlet

Even though your little ones might not understand the full capacity of the current situation, I think we all know they are feeling effects. When a child’s world gets turned upside down, it’s important to have a creative outlet. Just like our in-person classes, our virtual classes allow dancers to let go, forget about all the confusion, and dance it out! That has never been more important than right now! 

We hope this list gave you a glimpse into the warm and fuzzies that we feel during every Zoom class we teach. Their smiles are what remind us to stay positive during this time. 

While we know you might not get a “thank you” from your child after each Zoom class, trust us when we say that they are grateful. And from the bottom of OUR hearts, thank you. Thank you for your continued support during COVID-19. Thank you for supporting your child’s passions. Thank you for your flexibility and positivity. Our dance families are simply the best. 

COVID-19 Resources for Dance Families

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Oof! Whatever you are stressed about right now…. just know, you are NOT alone. Between finances, health, and childcare, it’s just a lot. These are REAL issues, REAL concerns, and we are with you. We want to help. From our stuck-at-home family to yours, we are here to offer some positivity during this trying time. 

Even though it may seem harder than ever before, now is the MOST important time to make sure our students KEEP dancing. Why? Endorphins, of course! We can probably all agree that we need a few extra of those right now! 

Our Positions Staff has been hard at work this past month taking our dance classes TOTALLY virtual! If you haven’t yet hopped on zoom with us or joined our Facebook groups, don’t worry! We are still wrapping our heads around all this too! It’s not too late to join us. 

On top of what WE’VE put together for our current Positions families, we have been totally thrilled by the number of people and companies who have banded together to help. From live online classes to at-home workouts, we’ve compiled a list of amazing resources for our dance families! We also threw in some general resources for our parents who are suddenly expected to be teachers AND parents!

Check out these awesome resources for dancers and parents during COVID-19:

Exclusively for Positions Families:

  • FREE Facebook Group for Current Positions Families - Contests, recital videos, and fun activities are posted weekly! Stay moving and connected in our Positions-only group!

  • LIVE Classes on Zoom - Access your child’s Zoom Link via the Parent Portal. If you are new to zoom, this tutorial will help you get oriented. View the zoom class schedule on our website and we will see you on the virtual dance floor!

  • Paid Adult Fitness Subscription Group - For $25, you can gain access to all of our at-home workout videos. At Positions, we don’t let quarantine stop us from reaching our health and fitness goals! Join us today! 

  • Kids Yoga on Facebook Live - Are things a little crazy at home? We’ve got you! Join Miss Kelly for some relaxing Kid’s Yoga. Follow Positions Dance Studio on Facebook so you don’t miss a class! 

Dance Training:

Bored at home? Can’t get enough dance? On TOP of your Virtual Classes at Positions, we’ve found some extra classes that will help you stay moving! These classes won’t be taught by your Positions Faculty, and they won’t help you learn your recital dance, but they are great class supplements to take advantage of!

  • Ballet Class with the Pros - A list of professional Ballet dancers that are offering virtual classes via Instagram/Facebook Live.

  • CLI Studios - The industry’s leading online class outlet is graciously offering FREE classes during this time with your favorite choreographers. Visit the website for a complete schedule and get moving!

  • DANCIO - Take class with the stars of dance from the comfort of your own home. They are offering a free 2-week trial.

  • GAGA classes - Donation based Gaga classes through Zoom multiple times a day!

  • STEEZY - Explore different urban dance styles like house, breaking, and popping. Free 7-day trial!

  • Sugarfoot Therapy - Injury prevention workouts for dancers designed by a physical therapist.

Staying Active:

  • BOKS - Free online fitness program for kids.

  • CorePower Yoga On Demand - Parents this is for you! CorePower has released their online classes for free.

  • Cosmic Kids Yoga - Yoga, mindfulness and relaxation designed specially for kids aged 3+

  • GoNoodle - Keep your tiny dancer moving with these fun, free dance videos for the whole family!

  • LES MILLS On Demand - Another great resource for parents to experience over 800+ workouts from home. They’re offering free trials!

Exploring Art:

  • BroadwayHD - You can experience the magic of Broadway from home! They offer a 7-day free trial!

  • Google Arts & Culture - Google has partnered with over 500 museums and galleries around the world!

  • Met Opera - Every evening enjoy a FREE night at the opera from your couch! 

Virtual Learning:

Stay informed:

Whether you’re homeschooling kids, trying to work from home, or doing your best to keep your dancer active, we hope that you find these links helpful!

From all of us here at Positions Dance Studio, we are sending you warm and healthy thoughts. Together we will make it through this time, and we can’t wait to see you all back at the studio. Happy living room dancing to all of our students!

Positions Happenings: Take a Look at our March Newsletter

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Now that our Positions dancers have finished LEAPING for Leap Day, it’s officially time to MARCH into March! Loving our cheesy puns? Don’t worry, we’ve got plenty more headed your way in the months to come! :) 

As we head into Spring, we’ve got TONS of fun coming up. Between Spring Musical, Recital 2020, and Summer Dance, Positions Dance Studio will be keeping you and your little ones busy for the next few months! 

Don’t miss a beat! We are sharing our March Newsletter to keep all the important and exciting details right at your fingertips

1. It’s Kindness Month at Positions.

During the whole month of March, we are celebrating kindness. Look for some special initiatives around the studio and activities in classes. It is our hope that our students know the value of kindness and continue to spread it within their community! 

2. Register for Summer Dance Today! 

Have you had a chance to check out our summer schedule? We have a FUN mix of classes, workshops, intensives, and camps on the schedule. Between our Positions Poppin’ Positions Summer Camp, our 6-Week Class Session, and our Rockettes Workshop, there is something for every child this summer!

Promo Alert: Use the code EARLYBIRD20 Get 10% off Summer Tuition when you register before April 30th! Don’t miss out on a summer of FUN! Get registered here today!

3. Spring Musical Tickets are On Sale Now!

Positions students will be presenting Frozen Kids at the Argyle Theatre. We are excited to see Elsa and Anna’s adventures come to life in this production! Our students have been working hard to put it all together and would love to see you in the audience.

Join us on April 26th at 2pm! Purchase tickets online today! 

4. Don’t miss our most recent Recital 2020 updates.

Have you added Recital 2020 to your calendar yet? We can’t wait to see our dancers take the stage on June 28th! Tickets go on sale March 15-18

We know our dance parents have a lot to remember! So we’ve created a Recital Info Page that keeps all the important info in one place. Below are some of the latest updates we’ve added to our website:

Show Order Details
Photo Day Schedules
Dress Rehearsal Schedule

5. Reserve your spot for Spring Meditation and Mimosas on March 22nd.

Join us for a special workshop on March 22nd at 12:30pm. During this relaxing class, guests will enjoy meditation, healthy snacks, and mimosas. 

Spring Mediation & Mimosas
Sunday 3/22 12:30-1:30pm
$30/ person (non-refundable)
Call 631-669-8612 to reserve your spot today!

6. Reserve your spot for our Foam Roll, Stretch, and Myofascial Massage Workshop.

Got aches and pains? Join us for this special workshop on March 27. Class will feature guided foam roll massages, stretches, and techniques that release stiff muscles. 

Foam Roll, Stretch, and Myofascial Release Workshop
Friday 3/27 8:15-9:00pm
$40/ person (non-refundable)
Foam rollers will be provided!
Call 631-669-8612 to reserve your spot today!

7. Spring Break is April 11-17.

The studio will be closed April 11-17. Enjoy your break! Be sure to make some time to rest and recharge before we head into recital season! 

8. Don’t miss Babylon Village’s 9th Annual Chinese Auction.

On Wednesday, March 11th at 6pm, join the community for a fun night of raffle, coffee, tea, and desserts! Learn more and purchase tickets here. 

9. Hurry in! The Everything Long Sleeved Sale ends on March 15th!

Be sure to stop by our dancewear store to take advantage of this awesome sale. All long-sleeved items are 35% off through 3/15. This is a great time to stock up on dance wear!

10. You’re Invited to a Hydrafacial Party on March 25th!

Deep Blue Med Spa has created an exclusive event for Positions parents and we could not be more excited! Add a little pampering to your life. At this event, guests will enjoy mini HydraFacial treatments, raffle baskets, demos, and exclusive offers. 

See you at Deep Blue Med Spa on March 25th at 7pm! Be sure to RSVP here. 

What an exciting list! We absolutely love offering such a wide variety of events, promotions, and opportunities for our dancers. Happy March, everyone. Don’t forget to spread kindness around the studio this month! 

Positions Happenings: Take a Look at our February Newsletter

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Wait…. Where did January go?! Winter is flying by this year and we can’t complain. The season of LOVE is upon us as we head into Valentine’s Day! This month on the blog we are featuring our February Newsletter. We’ve got tons of exciting events and important studio updates for our dance families!

Read on to stay in the know about all our exciting dance events in Babylon:

1. Don’t forget to purchase your Paper Hearts! 

The hearts are flying over here at the studio! This month we are selling paper hearts! Proceeds benefit the Babylon Breast Cancer Coalition. Stop by the front desk to learn more and purchase.

Thank you in advance for your help in supporting this great organization!

2. Winter Break is February 17th-23rd

There are no classes this week! We are wishing all of our dance families a relaxing break. Take some time to restart and refresh as we head into recital season! 

Classes are canceled but we WILL be offering a Winter Break Camp for kids ages 3-10. See below for details! 

3. Join us for Mini Winter Camp on February 18th and 19th! 

Ms. Assante, from St. Joseph’s Nursery School, and Miss Kelly are teaming up again for another fun Winter Camp! On Tuesday, we are throwing a pancake and pajama party that you won’t want to miss. Wednesday will be a Mad Scientist adventure! 

Join us for one day or two! Camp pricing starts at $40 for one day and $70 for both days. Ages 3-5 will camp from 9am-11pm and ages 6-10 will camp from 11:30-1:30! Contact the studio at 631-669-8612 to register!

4. New Year, New You: Our Adult Fitness Contest ends on February 16th

We are in the final stretch before we announce the winner of our adult fitness! Don’t forget to get those classes in before the 16th! Whoever attends the MOST classes by this date wins a $50 Positions gift card. We believe in you, let’s tackle those fitness goals together at the studio! 

Review the adult fitness schedule here! We’d love to see you in class. 

5. Save your spot for Pinot Noir at the Barre! 

Sorry kids, this one is adults only! On February 17th, we are so excited to host a Special Event for just $30/person. This class will feature a barre workout to get you up and moving. After that, guests will enjoy a wine, cheese, and chocolate pairing class to make your workout even sweeter!

Call 631-669-8612 to reserve your spot! See you on February 17th from 7pm-8:15! 

6. Spend Your Summer With Positions Dance Studio!

Summer is the perfect time to work on technique in a stress-free and fun environment! Look for the summer dance schedule later this month. Take 10% off your tuition if you register before April 30th! 

7. Frozen Kids: Save the date for our Spring Musical! 

Positions students will be presenting Frozen Kids on April 26th at 2pm at the Argyle Theatre. Don't miss this family-friendly performance! 

Tickets go on sale February 28th. We can't wait to see our students shine!

8. Positions Dance Studio Evening at the Argyle Theater

Tickets are on sale now for Disney’s The Little Mermaid at the Argyle Theater and it’s a special night for Positions Dance Studio families on February 21st at 7:30pm. Be sure to grab your discounted ticket for $59 (normally $74)! Tickets for kids 12 and under are $35. Contact the studio to purchase tickets!

9. Mark your calendars for Recital 2020! SO exciting!

We know it’s early, but over here we are ALREADY busy planning for our fabulous June recital. Important dates for you to know include Dress Rehearsal on June 27th at 11am and Recital on June 28th at 11am and 4pm. 

Mark your calendars now so those dates don’t sneak up on you, and check back to the recital page of our website to stay in the know. It’s going to be a great show!

We are SO excited to be offering so many new events and workshops for our Positions families! Have an idea that you’d like us to add to the list? We’d love to hear from you! Contact the studio today! 

4 Reasons Why Dress Code Matters

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What is cuter than a tiny dancer in a pink tutu? Nothing! We know that dance outfits are just ADORABLE, but they also serve a purpose. Proper dance apparel not only creates an effective learning environment, but it also teaches young dancers important life lessons. All cuteness aside, dress code is important! 

As we kick off another year of dance classes at Positions Dance Studio, we thought this would be a great time to dive in a little deeper and explain why dress code is so important. We know that it isn’t always easy to get your child to class in the correct outfit with the correct shoes. We greatly appreciate ALL our families do to support their dancers!  

Check our top 4 reasons why dress code matters: 

1. Help US Help YOU

First and foremost, our dress code is made to help our teachers do their job! We are here to give our students ALL the best information about dance technique and body placement. But if we can’t see our students’ bodies, we can’t help them achieve their goals. Even the slightest adjustment in arm positions or shoulder placement can transform a single pirouette to a double. If you show up to class looking like a dancer, we are able to make you the BEST dancer you can be. 

2. Discipline

Ask any dance teacher and they will probably agree that there is usually a HUGE difference between students who take dress code seriously and those who don’t. We notice! Getting in the habit of putting on dance clothes, ditching the jewelry, and securing hair in a neat bun teaches dancers to come to class ready to work hard. It is more than just an outfit. Dress code enforcement creates improved work ethic, focus, overall attitude, which is why we love it so much! 

3. Safety

Shoelaces, jewelry, and baggy clothes might not seem like a big deal for a kid. But when you are dancing your heart out, one dangly necklace can create a huge safety hazard. Safety is always our first priority at Positions Dance Studio, and that starts with dress code! 

4. Prepping For The Big Stage

It’s no surprise that getting used to wearing tights and a leotard is a little bit of an adjustment. In class, we are ALWAYS working towards the big stage! We want our dancers to feel comfortable, confident, and empowered come recital time. Coming to class each week looking and feeling like a dancer makes getting up on stage in a fancy costume SO much easier! 

Parents, with all the tights, leotards, and ballet slippers to choose from, figuring out what to wear to dance class can sometimes be a tedious task. BUT, at Positions Dance Studio, we make it SUPER easy for parents because we think that dress code should never be overlooked. Visit our website for a class by class dress code guide and find EVERYTHING you need right here in our dancewear store

Happy dancing Position families! We can’t wait to see all of our dancers looking beautiful from head to (pointed) toe! 

Class Feature Time: Dance Abilities

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At Positions Dance Studio, we believe that dance is for ALL. We hold this value close when planning our schedule for the year and deciding what we want to pass on to our kids. Striving to make dance accessible for everyone, we create classes that welcome students from all backgrounds. 

Our Dance Abilities class is one of the classes we are proud to offer at the studio. This weekly class is specifically tailored for students ages 7-adult with Down Syndrome, Autism, and other developmental disabilities. In class, dance allows students to gain balance between the two halves of the body, express emotion, and gain muscle control, all while having a ball and making some new friends. We absolutely LOVE watching our Dance Abilities students grow throughout the year. 

So today we wanted to take some time to feature this amazing class on the blog. We truly believe that this class does wonderful things for our participants. Read on to hear about the Top 3 Benefits of Dance Abilities!

1. Confidence Building

We see it all the time, dance brings people OUT of their shells. The nonverbal nature of dance offers a great opportunity for special needs populations to explore their senses. This often leads to a burst of self-confidence, as our students learn to express themselves and trust their body’s abilities! 

More importantly, dance can feel vulnerable sometimes! We often see our Dance Abilities students start out the year with small, shy movements. But by the end, they jump right in with huge, full-bodied dancing. That right there is the beauty of trusting oneself! It’s so rewarding to watch as our students learn self-confidence through dance. 

2. Improved Coordination and Motor Skills

Right & left, up & down, open & close… our Dance Abilities students learn it all! Dance requires focus and muscle control to execute skills. We meet students where they are by breaking down skills and modifying our requirements based on their skill levels. They learn to use both sides of their body, move their legs and arms together, and even move in opposition. The improvements we see are truly amazing! 

3. A Sense of Belonging

This one is by far our favorite! Everyone deserves to feel like they belong somewhere and fit in with their peers. And we sadly know that’s not always the case for special needs populations. That is exactly why we are proud to offer Dance Abilities.

In class each week, our students dance alongside their peers, learning how to share space with others and use their bodies to communicate. We watch as they make special connections with other dancers and build friendships that matter even beyond our studio doors. Bring your dancer to our class to give them a consistent group of dance friends that they look forward to dancing with each week. Dance brings people together!

We can’t wait to kick off our Dance Abilities class this month! It is not too late to register! Head over to our website and sign up online! 

This class is SO important to us and we hold it near and dear to our hearts! Come see for yourself what Dance Abilities can do for your family!


4 Ways to Stay In Shape This Summer

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Summer is here! If you’re like us you are feeling lots of mixed emotions. YAY summer, let’s hit the beach and relax… BUT uh oh, that means we may LOSE all the technical gains that were made during the school year. 3 months without dancing is probably not a great idea for most of our dancers!

This month’s blog post is ALL about staying in shape. Join us on our summer fit mission! We want to help our dancers arrive in the fall strong and ready to pick up right where they left off. 

We’ve put together a list of our favorite ways to stay in shape over the summer for both dancers and parents. Don’t forget that we offer a FUN line-up of fitness classes for adults at Positions Dance Studio. 

4 Ways to Stay in Shape this Summer:

1. Take Class at Positions Dance Studio

Now we know we are a little biased, but we couldn’t leave ourselves off the list! Dance is ALWAYS our workout of choice. Most of the time, you get so lost in the music and the fun that you forget you are working out… and that’s the beauty of dance!

For Dancers: We know it might be tempting to take a break this summer after working hard all year. But trust us, coming back to dance in the Fall after 3 months of laying on the couch will NOT be fun! We have put together a great line-up of summer dance classes so you can stay in the studio over the summer. Summer is the perfect time to focus on your skills without the added stress of the school year. You will come back in the Fall stronger than ever instead of out of shape and playing catch-up!

For Parents: When we made our summer schedule we did NOT forget about you guys!!! We are making Positions Dance Studio THE place for adult fitness classes in Babylon this summer! Our schedule is packed with classes for every one of your workout preferences, from zumba, to ballet, to yoga. We’ve got you covered! Come sweat with us!

2. Get Outside

Don’t let this beautiful weather go to waste! It doesn’t come around often here in Babylon! :) Any workout is just 10 times better outside. Ditch the treadmill and take your run outside. Set up your yoga mat in the backyard and do some downward dogs. Spicing up your regular routine with some fresh air will give you that extra motivation you are looking for. 

Getting outside is super important for kids too! And the good part is, they usually love it! We know finding time to work out while also trying to entertain your kids can be difficult. Outdoor scavenger hunts, bike rides, and time at the park are all great ways to get your kids up and moving with you. The fresh air and sunlight will leave you all feeling refreshed and active!

3. Stretch, Stretch, and Oh Yeah, Stretch!

This one is mostly directed at our young dancers on summer break, but parents we are looking at you too! We remind our students of this regularly, but flexibility is a skill that requires consistent attention and leaves your body EXTREMELY quickly. 

For Dancers: If you go the whole summer without touching your toes, we promise your splits will be about a foot higher when you come back in the fall! We know finding the motivation and time to stretch amidst all the summer fun can be difficult. If you’re looking for some constant reminders and a little extra push, sign up for summer classes! At Positions, we will be stretching our splits ALL summer long in class. Will we see you there?

For Parents: Middle splits may not be a priority in this stage of life, but we can assure you that your body will LOVE you if you give it a good stretch every once in a while. Staying in shape is more than just burning calories and building muscles. It’s about making your body feel good. Stretching takes pressure off your joints by lengthening your muscles and giving them more range of movement. Say goodbye to aches and pains this summer and come stretch with us at our Adult Ballet, Adult Yoga, and Adult Barre classes. Check out the schedule here

4. Take Advantage of Pool/Beach Season

This one is our FAVORITE on the list. What better way to work out than at the pool or beach? 

For Dancers: Water ballet anyone?! No, seriously, do a ballet barre in the pool and we PROMISE you will be sore! The water provides extra resistance and will be sure to tone those muscles over the summer. An added bonus, dancing in the pool is great for dancers who are nursing injuries because it lowers your impact on joints. Dance physical therapists always recommend doing some relevés and jumps in the pool first while working back up to dancing! 

For Parents: Who’s in for a jog on the beach? What about a few laps at the pool? Or better yet, go for a jog TO the pool. Diving in is the best reward for a great workout. Make a splash this summer!

Making this list has us feeling SO motivated! So now let’s get to it! Put those phones down and get MOVING. But before you do, register for some classes at Positions to make sure you keep the hustle up ALL summer long. Thank us later! :)

4 Benefits of Summer Dance

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The sun is out and summer is here! We hope you are as excited as we are to finally spend some time outside! Our summer fun list includes yummy barbecues, pool time, and oh yeah, summer dance of COURSE!

At Positions Dance Studio, we think summer dance is super beneficial for our students. We highly recommend it to all of our dance families, from our beginners all the way up to our advanced dancers. Read on to find out 4 benefits of summer dance and learn more about our amazing summer class line-up!

1. Summer is the perfect time to try a new class!

One of the great things about our shortened summer session is that it is a fun, low commitment environment. The 6-week class session serves as a perfect sampler period to try out a new dance genre. If your kid tries a new class and loves it, then you know they are ready for more in the Fall. If not, no harm no foul!

For little ones wanting to try new classes, we recommend our Combo classes. Combo classes combine 2 dance forms to keep up with those short attention spans and also give them a wide variety of introductory dance skills! By the end of the summer session, your little one will likely know which dance style they liked more, or if they really shine in both!

If you need extra help picking a summer class, consider signing up for a FREE trial class! Trial classes are a great way to make sure a class and our studio is a great fit for your family!

2. Summer gives older kids the chance to focus on their skills without the added school-year stress.

During the school-year, our kids have a LOT going on! By the time they get to dance in the evenings, they’ve already had a long day at school, probably attended another extracurricular already, AND they have homework waiting for them at home.

Every summer, we watch our students attend class with greater focus and energy. Because of this, we witness TONS of growth and skill advancement that usually takes a lot longer during the school year.

For advanced students wanting to take their skills up a notch during our summer session, our intensives are sure to bring the hype. Intensives are a chance for kids to focus on their technique in a fast-paced and challenging learning environment. Get ready to sweat and dance the day away!

3. Summer is a great chance to introduce your little one to new activities and classroom environments!

Toddlers and younger kids can sometimes have a hard time adjusting to school and activities. Separation anxiety is common for kids leaving mom or dad for the first time! Our shortened summer session is a FUN way to keep kids in a routine over the summer and practice saying goodbye to mom and dad.  

Our “Dance With Me” (Mommy and Me) classes are perfect for first time dancers looking to work up to a regular class. Packed with fun songs, stories, and play, dancers and parents participate together and learn the dance basics. Join the fun this summer!

4. Summer dancers come back to class in the Fall stronger than ever!

Trust us, when we come back to dance in the Fall, our teachers can definitely tell who attended summer classes! Just like any other sport or activity, taking a 3 month break can hinder a child’s progress and set their skills back. We hate to see our kids make so much progress during the year and then lose it during the summer months! Register for summer classes and watch your dancer soar into the Fall!

We LOVE summer dance at Positions Dance Studio! It’s such a blast and SO good for our kids! Our summer session is sure to fill your kids summer with smiles and fun, as we have put together a packed schedule of the best summer dance classes in Babylon! Read more on our website and register online today!

Recital Traditions: Etiquette and What to Expect

Recital Traditions: Etiquette and What to Expect

We know it's hard to believe, but our annual dance recital is right around the corner! As we finish and perfect all of our dances, the excitement definitely begins to buzz around the studio. We can’t wait to see all of our kids’ hard work come to life on June 22nd. Performing is a special time for dancers and their families, so today we want to talk about 5 performance traditions.

From theater etiquette to fun show-time rituals, we’ve got you covered on what to expect for the big day!

Etiquette Tips:

1. Give your dancers a round of applause at the end AND during impressive moments!

Most of us know that it’s tradition to give the performers a round of applause at the end of a dance. And take it from us dancers, the LOUDER the better! One of the most rewarding parts of recital weekend is hearing our younger dancers say, “did you hear how loud they clapped for us?!” as they rush off the stage for the first time.

Another great way to show your support is to applaud during impressive moments that you know your dancer has worked hard to achieve. Feel free to clap for long turn sequences, big jumps/lifts, or fabulous solos. It will send their dancing hearts through the roof, we promise!

2. Don’t enter the stage from the theater house. It’s bad theater etiquette!

We don’t blame you if you didn’t know about this one! It’s kind of an unspoken theater rule! We like to keep the theater house (the section with the seats) completely separate from all the backstage buzz. If your dancer has to get backstage, walk around to the backstage entrance. When you're in the house, the stage is off limits!  

3. A beautiful ballet bun and glowing makeup is a recital must-have!

Your dancer will definitely feel the excitement as you take the morning to the get their glitz and glam on. For parents who feel a little lost when it comes to ballet buns (we understand, it is difficult!), here’s an online tutorial to get you started. Be sure to use hairspray for a sleek look that will stay put for the entire performance.

4. No flash photography at the theater.

This one is important not only to keep our audience members free of distractions but also for the safety of our dancers. Believe it or not, when the dancers step on stage they can see almost NOTHING in the house. So when a camera flashes, it can really shock a dancer’s eyes and ruin their focus. We know you want to capture the big moments, but we encourage you to put the cameras down! There is nothing like a live performance from your child! Also, don’t forget you have the option of purchasing a professional DVD keepsake. Lean back and enjoy the show knowing that you can revisit the memories later!

5. Flowers are the classic post-show gift to make your dancer feel loved and supported!

Ask any dancer, there is nothing better than adoring all your beautiful flowers after a big performance. It’s a performance tradition and it gets those warm and fuzzies going! We will have flowers available for purchase in our lobby for your convenience!

6. Don’t forget to say “Break a Leg!”

It’s tradition… dancers DON’T say “good luck.” Hearing these words of support before the big day is a great way to get the excitement brewing. We love making our students feel like they are a part of a dance community with special rituals and long-lasting memories.

Now that you’re officially “in the know” about all of our dancer traditions, it’s time to get ready for the big day! Be sure to read up on all the recital details, dates, and times. Our Photo Days will be happening at the studio on June 5th & 8th. And don’t forget about our Mandatory Dress Rehearsal on June 20th.

We are SO excited to see our dancers on stage.  Tickets are available online now! Our dancers have been working so hard, and we know your support will mean the world to them. See you there!


Why We LOVE to Dance!

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February has arrived and you know what that means! Hearts, hearts and more hearts. Every year at Positions Dance Studio we host a fundraiser for Babylon Breast Cancer Coalition.  BBCC is a local organization that provides community education and direct support to cancer patients. Each year we sell Pink Hearts during the month of February to raise money for their organization. Our dancers write why they LOVE to dance on the Pink Hearts and we display them in our studio windows. To get your thoughts flowing, here are 4 reasons to LOVE dance.

1. Dance is a tool for self-expression.

Sometimes words just aren’t enough to express how we are feeling. Dance gives us the opportunity to express ourselves in a way that nothing else can. It is SO freeing to move our bodies and portray emotions without having to say a single word.

2. We can spread joy to others through dance.

Putting a smile on an audience member’s face while performing is one of the most rewarding feelings. Dance gives us something to share with others. We can entertain an audience and we can also make them feel powerful emotions just by dancing.

3. It helps you stay physically fit… in the most FUN way possible!

Who doesn’t LOVE getting up on their feet and grooving when they hear their favorite songs. Dancing makes it SO EASY to be active. Your body is having so much fun getting lost in the music that it forgets that it is even tired. Not to mention the strength, endurance, coordination, and flexibility that dancers achieve after years of being in the studio.

4. Dance builds confidence in a way that nothing else can.

Coming to class each day and seeing all the fabulous things our bodies are capable of is truly a gift. Nailing a pirouette or landing a perfect leap reminds us that we have so much potential when we work hard. More importantly, getting up on stage and performing for an audience makes us feel HUGE in a world that can sometimes make us feel very small. When you hear a giant round of applause, and that applause is for YOU, it builds confidence.

Those are just 4 of the MANY reasons why dance is easy to love. Now it’s your turn. Tell us why YOU love to dance by purchasing a Pink Heart for Babylon Breast Cancer Coalition at the front desk for the month of February. BBCC is a great organization and we really enjoy showing support for their cause. We also LOVE seeing our dance families get involved and reading all of the heartwarming reasons why you love to dance. Keep spreading the love, Positions Dance families!

The Positions Difference!

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At Positions Dance Studio, we pride ourselves in being different, we are not your typical dance studio. While our dancers are busy learning discipline, grace, and focus, we are busy fostering a supportive, welcoming atmosphere. We firmly believe this allows our students to reach their full potential. Nothing makes us happier than watching our dancers grow year after year!

TUTORIAL ALERT: If you are ready to register for classes but aren't sure how, skip to the bottom of this post to view a quick tutorial!

So what exactly is the Positions difference? We thought today we would highlight a few of the things we love the MOST about our studio.

  • We provide age-appropriate and developmentally appropriate classes, choreography, and costumes. It is a top priority to keep our kids, kids! We keep all song, costume, and choreography choices age-appropriate. We also offer a variety of technique levels along with a Dance Abilities class for students with special needs.

  • Our staff is experienced and qualified with extensive training in dance and education. Our staff works together to provide the best training possible with putting a strong emphasis on injury prevention. They take great care in creating age-appropriate classes where each student receives individualized instruction and attention. You can read more about our amazing teachers here.

  • Our customer service is top notch! From signing up for a trial class to moments at the big recital we want to make sure that our parents have an amazing experience as well. Our parent portal is available online 24/7 so you can always access your information and register for classes (see below!). We also keep our website and Facebook page up-to-date so our customers can depend on it for the latest information. Finally, our front desk is always receptive to questions and feedback. We really enjoy getting to know families at the studio and find that it helps us provide a better experience for our students.

At Positions Dance Studio, we LOVE what we do and we want to make sure our families feel a part of something amazing because they are! We know you will feel the Positions difference when you are here. Schedule a free trial to experience it for yourself.

Ready to register for classes but not sure how? We have made a quick tutorial to show you exactly how easy it is to register for our classes.

 


 

3 Tips To Get The Most Out Of Your Free Trial

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We know there are so many great dance studios in the area and choosing the best one for you can be a tough decision. This is why at Positions Dance Studio, we offer free trials to new customers. Today on the blog we wanted to talk about a few tips to get the most out of your free trial and share with you what you can learn by taking advantage of them.

BONUS ALERT: Check out our demo at the bottom of this post showing exactly how to schedule your free trial today!

You can start learning about a dance studio the second you sign up for a trial. We recommend taking a moment to reflect after contacting the studio. How easy or difficult was it to sign up? If you spoke to someone on the phone or via email, how was the studio’s communication?

This very first interaction can be a glimpse into how the customer service is at a studio. At Positions, we strive to create a very positive experience from the beginning of our customer’s dance journey. Our new customers can schedule their free trial online or by calling/emailing the studio. Our website and parent portal are always up to date with the most current information so our customers are always informed.

As you arrive at the studio, take a moment to observe. How are the students and teachers interacting? Do the students look happy? How do you feel about the lobby? You will know you are at the right studio when you feel good upon walking in. One of the biggest priorities at Positions is to make everyone feel welcomed. We firmly believe that dance is for everybody! During your free trial, you should be able to feel that energy right as you enter our studio.

The most obvious advantage of doing a free trial is seeing if your child LIKES the class and enjoys their teacher. Signing up for a session of dance is a big commitment. By having your child do a trial class, you won't have to guess if they are going to have fun and learn something new. You will know!

Our teachers at Positions strive to create a positive environment in the classroom that fosters student growth both in their technique and in their self-esteem. A trial will give you the confidence to know your child is in the right place.

As you can see, a trial class is an important step in finding the right dance studio. We offer free trials to new customers all year long. If you would like to get a first-hand look at what Positions Dance Studio is all about, schedule your free trial today!

Below we have made a free trial demo so you can feel confident in booking yours.

Uploaded by Resourceful Dance, LLC on 2018-07-13.

Top 4 Reasons To Dance This Summer!

Top 4 Reasons to dance at Positions Dance Studio in Babylon, NY

Can you believe summer is right around the corner?? We are just as shocked as you but it is that time of year again! Many families start planning their summer fun right around this time of year and we are so excited to share with you all that Positions has to offer. This summer we have an amazing line up including a 6-week session AND 6 awesome camps to choose from! We are POSITIVE your child will have a blast but if you need a bit more convincing, check out our TOP 4 reasons to dance this summer!

 

  1. Summer is the PERFECT time to try something new! With a short 6 week session, it is a great time to try a new style of dance without having to commit to a longer session. If your child has shown an interest in trying dance for the first time or maybe adding another class to their line up, summer is the best time to see if they are ready!

  2. Improving technique is a BREEZE in the summer! Ok, maybe not a breeze hehe. Dancers still have to put in the work but they can do it without all the distractions that the school year brings. We have found that the dancers who commit to our summer sessions improve SO much in such a short amount of time and it is all because of the focus they bring to the table. If your dancer is hoping to improve this year or perhaps move up a level, taking class during the summer should definitely be a priority!

  3. Making new friends comes easily in our classes! We strongly believe that dance is for EVERYONE and with that comes our commitment to provide an all-inclusive, positive, family-friendly environment. Whether your child has friends at the studio or is brand new to Positions, we know they will leave their first summer class with a handful of new friends!

  4. Our summer classes and camps are FUN! We are a bit biased but we just LOVE spending the summer at Positions. We have a blast seeing our dancers achieve goals, make new friends, and get out of their comfort zones. Combine that with some great music, fun combos, and silly activities and we couldn’t be any more thrilled to get this summer rolling!   

 

 

There is one more thing we would like to mention that will get you PUMPED for summer! If you register before April 30, 2018 you will get 10% OFF your summer tuition! We recommend registering early as our classes do fill quickly.

 

We can’t wait to spend the summer with your family!

 

 

It's Time To Tackle Your Goals!

Setting adult fitness goals in Babylon, NY

With the New Year comes fresh starts and new chances. Have you sat down to think about what goals you would like to accomplish this year? At Positions, we like to see ALL of our students (children and adults) take some time to really think about their goals. Goals keep us motivated to pursue the life we want! Whether that is to become a great dancer, to do something we love, or to stay healthy and fit, the New Year is a great time to re-evaluate.

How do you make sure you actually accomplish these goals? Although the power is entirely up to you, we thought we could give you a few of our best strategies to turn your hopes and dreams into reality.

  1. Say your goal out loud and not just to yourself hehe! Tell your family and friends and write it down somewhere you will see every day. The more you can spread the word about your goal, the more you are telling yourself that you CAN accomplish it! This strategy has a bonus: when you tell people about your goals, you are also building a support system. Your friends and family will check in every once and while to see how you are doing, what a better way to stay accountable!? You may even find a couple people who have a similar goal.

  2. Make a plan. What steps are you going to take to make this goal happen? For example: If you would like to incorporate more exercise into your life: Are you going to join a gym? Take group fitness classes ( like the amazing ones we have here at Positions )? Sign up for a race? How often will you train? What time of day? Be specific! Don’t leave anything up to chance. Make a plan and stick with it!

  3. Find an accountability buddy. Accomplishing goals is much more fun when you have a buddy! Find someone who has a similar goal and check in week-to-week on how you are both doing. You can even meet once a week to take a class, go for a run, etc. It’s always much harder to skip out when someone is meeting you there or waiting to hear all about your progress.

  4. Set a reward. If you are anything like us, getting a reward is half the fun of accomplishing goals! Your reward could be big or small but make sure it is something enticing enough to pull you out of a slump. Unfortunately, there will be days where you don’t feel like following through on your plan, if you have a reward in place, it will help push you through! We love putting a picture of the reward right next to our goal where we can see it every day.

Are you feeling motivated yet?? We sure are! If your young dancer is hoping to set some goals this year, we encourage you to help guide them through this process. You can feel good that you are teaching them how to ACTUALLY accomplish their goals and they will feel good that you are there to support them through it. For any dance specific goals, check in with their teacher. Teachers can be great resources in making goals a reality!

 

 

Find More Opportunities To Be Creative

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Creativity is something we highly value at Positions Dance Studio. By encouraging creativity in the classroom, your children will be better equipped to solve problems, express emotions, become more self-aware, and so much more. We think that is pretty great, don’t you? It got us thinking, what other ways can your dancers build more creative time into their lives? We have put together a great list of ideas for all ages to try.

  • See A Show. There are a TON of great shows to see for all ages and budgets, especially at this time of year. Whether it is theater, dance, music, or art, seeing something new can open your dancer’s mind to new possibilities. Seeing other people's creativity come to life is a great way to get inspired!

  • Take a new class. Sign your dancer up for something they have never tried before. That could be a new style of dance (check out our current schedule here to find one) OR something completely different like painting or acting. By exposing your child to something new (in a safe environment like a class) you are building the foundation that new is fun and exciting and it is OK to not be the “best” (at any age).

  • Make up a dance at home. This is always a hit at sleepovers and family parties. Choreographing requires a dancer to try new things and put a story or emotions into movement. At the end of the night, your dancers can put on a show in the living room for you. We promise it will be so much fun for everyone! BONUS: Grab that camera and record it every once and awhile. You will be amazed at how your dancer’s choreography progresses year after year, all thanks to their creative mind being strengthened.

This list has us ready to go have some fun, how about you? Like we mentioned, your dancers already have a leg up in the creative department JUST by coming to dance class. These could be a few really great (and fun) ways to keep the creativity flowing outside of dance class. Does your family do any special projects or activities that foster this skill? We would love to know it the comments!

 

How To Prepare For Your Child's First Dance Class

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Our fall session is upon us and we could not be more excited! The first week of dance is by FAR our favorite part of the year. There is such a positive, enthusiastic energy in the air and we eat it up at Positions Dance Studio. If you are gearing up for your child’s first dance class, you may have a ton of questions. We want to make sure you AND your child have an amazing first experience with us so we have broken a few things down for you. That way, you can relax and enjoy the moment with your dancer.

  • What does my child wear to dance class? Positions has a simple dress code for the uniformity and safety of our students. For all classes, hair must be pulled back off the face. Students should wear tights and a leotard with optional dance skirts/shorts or leggings. A form-fitting black or white shirt may be worn in classes outside of ballet. Dancers should wear the appropriate shoes to class (ballet shoes to ballet, jazz shoes to jazz, etc.) Please leave baggy clothing and jewelry at home. We have a TON of dancewear options at our studio for purchase. If you have any questions regarding dress code or need to purchase something for your dancer, please contact us here.

  • Can I watch my child’s class? All of our studios have viewing windows that are available to parents at all times.

  • When should we arrive to class? We recommend arriving 5-10 minutes early for the start of your class. This allows your dancer to be able to use the bathroom and visit with their dance friends before class gets started. If your dancer needs to change or do hair before class, make sure you allow enough time to do so.

  • Are there any rules in dance class? The expectations in dance class are very similar to those at school. We expect our dancers to be respectful of themselves, their peers, and their teachers. Doing so will ensure that everyone walks out of class with a giant smile on their face!

  • Anything else we should know? When trying anything new, it is always a good idea to go over the game plan with your child before the big day. Talk about what they can expect during their first class: where will you (the parent) be during class, what are the teacher’s expectations, what will they wear, what will they do during class, etc. Knowing what is in store can make the transition to dance class so much easier for you and your dancer.

 

So are you ready for an AMAZING week at dance? We hope so! If you are still needing more information please don’t hesitate to contact us. At Positions, it is our mission to create a positive experience for you and your dancer right from day one.

We cannot wait to see all of our new dancers in action, classes start September, 9th! Still need to register? You can do so here

 

 

 

Is Your Child Ready For Dance Class?

Knowing when your child is ready for dance class can be tough! Whether you have a toddler, preschooler, or a child in elementary school, making the decision to sign your child up for dance classes may be nerve wracking. Every kid is unique and of course, you know your child best! To make the choice just a tad easier, we thought we would share a few tell tale signs that your little dancer is ready to jump right in!

  • They LOVE music and movement! Does your dancer demand their favorite songs in the car? Do they start wiggling when a song comes on? Have they ever put on a “show” for you in the living room? If yes, then they will love dance class!

  • They are ready to take class independently. We DO offer classes for children 18-36 months accompanied with a parent ( called “Dance With Me”) but if your child is older than 3, they will have to be emotionally ready to take class without a parent in the room. Sometimes the adjustment takes a couple weeks and that is OK. We do have viewing windows in our studios so you can be sure to peek in.

  • They can follow simple instructions. We realize we are talking about little ones so we DO NOT expect perfection but your child should be able to follow simple instructions most of the time. Some examples of what we ask in class are: imitating the teacher’s movement, taking turns, and making a circle with their new dance friends.

Like we mentioned, each child is different and we love that! We hope this list gives you a little more confidence knowing your child is ready to have a blast with us in class. If you are still not sure, give us a call or contact us here to schedule a free trial class! Getting a tour of the space and meeting the director before the start of a new class can make the transition so much easier for both you and your child, so what are you waiting for??

 

How To AMAZE Your Dancer At This Year's Recital

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Recital week is almost here at Positions Dance Studio! We could not be more excited to see all the hard work come to life and I’m sure you and your dancers feel the same. They have put in countless hours at the studio and you have supported them every step of the way. It is time to celebrate right?! With all the fun and excitement comes something else not so pleasant, STRESS. Yes, recital week is stressful for everyone (for us too!). There are costumes and accessories to pack, special hair and makeup to master, a handful of different check-in times to keep track of, and much much more. It is a lot to handle for the seasoned dance parent not to mention for those first timers out there! We want to make sure we are doing all we can to make your week as easy as it can be for you and your dancer. Let’s face it, if you are stressed out, your dancer will be stressed out too. And that is not fun for anyone. So we thought we would give you a few ways you can feel less of that awful stress and more of the fun and excitement. Following these tips will ensure that you can AMAZE your dancer at this year’s recital!  

  • Read EVERYTHING. Twice. Make sure you are really going through all the emails and handouts you receive from the studio. They contain information like check-in times, order deadlines, day-of instructions, etc. Take the time to really process the information and write reminders in your calendar.

  • Take Inventory Now. Do you have all the right shoes? New tights in the correct color? All hair and makeup supplies? Have you double checked all costumes and their accessories? Figuring out you are missing something last minute could be the worst feeling ever! You will feel much better knowing you have a few days to run to the store rather than just a few hours.

  • Make a recital day PLAN with your dancer. Everyone will feel much better after you talk through logistics and expectations. Talk with your dancer about when you will start getting ready, who will be helping with quick changes, when will they eat, and when and where you will meet them after the performance. You will rest assured knowing they know what to do and they will feel more prepared in handling the day without you.

  • Be positive, have fun, and enjoy every second! Recital is only once a year and trust us, it goes FAST! Be proud of your dancer no matter what happens on stage. It takes a lot of guts to get on stage and your dancer wants no more than to do the best they can do. Don’t be shy in telling them how you feel after their performance. Performing after all the preparation should feel amazing and as their parents, you get to share that feeling with them. They deserve that shining moment and so do you. Make sure you take a moment or two to look around and feel the joy with your dancer.

We want nothing more than for you and your dancer to enjoy this moment because it is the BEST part of being a performer (and a proud parent too) and like we mentioned, it will go fast! Take the stress out of the week and you will be able to truly savor each precious moment.

Have any questions about recital week? Check out this FAQ page we have and call or email the studio with anything you don’t see mentioned.