A Twirl Parent's Survival Guide

For first time dance parents or parents of preschool aged children, starting an organized activity such as ballet, preschool, soccer, etc. with your little one can be overwhelming. Just trying to get everyone out the door and in the car is a major victory somedays, right? I am a mom of 3 kiddos and want to answer some of our frequently asked questions from a parent perspective for you!

My child is shy or gets easily overwhelmed. What if he/she won’t go in without me? This is completely normal! I was extremely shy as a little girl and my mom put me in dance to "bring me out of my shell" (see you never know what activities God will use in your child's life!). Please rest assured that we deal with this A LOT and sometimes there may be a few tears at first. Usually once mom or dad is out of sight and we get them dancing, they quickly forget and have so much fun! If they continue to cry and be upset after a few minutes, we will bring them to you. It does take trust on the parents part, but know that they are in a loving and encouraging environment and we will do our very best to make them feel comfortable and secure. 
Also don't be discouraged if all they do is watch class and not move/dance at all during the first few classes. Usually they just need to see what we're doing, think about it at home, and after a few times they will join right in. Some students take longer to warm up than others and that is perfectly fine with us! We love giving them the space to feel comfortable and grow in their confidence!

My child may have some separation anxiety…can I sit in the classroom? Just like the timid child, having some anxiety about being away from mom or dad is completely normal. Our goal for the little ones is to get them ready for a classroom setting that they will have in preschool or church: learning to follow directions, listening to the teacher, being aware of others, taking turns, sharing, and building confidence…these are all important goals in their development along with our dance goals. If a child is consistently having a hard time being away from mom or dad, it may be a good idea to wait and try again when they are ready.
Another reason we do not have parents sit in the dance room during class is that it is a distraction and often children's behavior changes when they have an audience. We want to help our students practice the habit of attention and most of our Twirl dancers are still learning. So the more we limit distractions, the more dancing, learning, and fun we will have together!

Is my child going to be learning REAL dance or just froo froo? The answer is both! For our TWIRL program, our goal is that the dancers have FUN and want to continue coming to dance year after year. If you poll our high school intensive dancers, many of them started when they were very young. The reason they are STILL dancing is not because it was serious and they learned the correct terminology at a young age, it’s because they fell in love with dance and ENJOY it.  We do want our toddler dancers to learn the ballet basics and simple terminology, but we also mix in creative movement and use props to spark their imaginations while working on coordination and grace. Because of our knowledge of child development and experience with teaching this age group, our program is one of the most well-balanced, age-appropriate dance programs you’ll find!

How can I set my child up for success?
Being on time to class is KEY! If a student walks in late and the class has already started, it can be harder for them to walk in and join on their own, and it's also disruptive to the class when the door is opening and closing. Being a few minutes early will also give you time to take them potty and get their shoes on so they are ready for class! Also talk to your child about what dance class is; look up some children’s dance videos on YouTube. Seek out not only videos of polished performances, but ones taken during class, with the camera angle set low, from a child’s perspective. And please label each of their shoes with their name!

For Twirl Combo, which shoes does my child need first?
Have your dancer come in their ballet shoes first, then we will change into tap shoes for the last portion of class. If you leave during class (please see bathroom policy below), please leave your child's shoes right inside the door (it is so helpful for us if they have tap shoes that are velcro and don't need to be tied). If you stay at the studio, we will bring your student out to the lobby so you can help get their shoes changed quickly so we can get right back to dancing!

What if they need to go to the bathroom? Do I need to stay during their class?
If your child is not able to  go to the restroom by themselves (this includes getting their leotard and tights on and off on their own), the parent needs to remain in the lobby just in case their dancer needs to use the restroom during class. Teacher assistants can escort students to the restroom and bring them back to class, but will wait outside the restroom door (not the stall door) and will not be able to help them get dressed. If your child is able to go to the restroom completely by themselves, you may leave to run an errand or go to The Perfect Blend while your student is in class.

What are the Tickets for? 
For our 2-4 year olds we give dum dums or stickers as rewards at the end of class time for listening to the teacher and doing a great job dancing. For our 4-6 and 5-7 year olds in combo classes our teachers give tickets for good behavior. If they save their tickets (we suggest a little ziploc in their dance bag) they can trade 10 tickets in for a piece of candy or 100 in for a bigger prize. Tickets carry on from year to year so they can use tickets from last year. Tickets can be traded at the front desk! 

We are SO excited to watch each child blossom and flourish this year! And we are so honored that you chose Turning Pointe. Our prayer is that we will ignite a passion for dance and the arts and a heart for worship that will last a lifetime in each of these precious ones!

We'll see you beginning Tuesday, September 4th (Monday classes have their first class Sept 10th).
Blessings,
Ms. Tina

All About Ballroom

What do The Sound of Music, Carousel, My Fair Lady and Roger’s and Hammerstein’s Cinderella have in common? All of them include dance sequences of traditional American style waltzes! Want to perform in West Side Story? You’ll need to mambo! How about Chicago? You’ll need to tango! Maybe you’d simply like to challenge yourself, know what to do on the dance floor at a friend’s wedding, or carve out an hour a week to dance with your spouse or friends. Whether your goals are recreational or professional, ballroom dance can be a great addition to your schedule!

Dating back to the royal courts of the 16th century, ballroom is formal social dance, popular as both a recreational and competitive style of dancing. The ballroom repertoire includes styles developed from European folk dances like the waltz, Latin dances like the tango and rhumba, and 20th century adaptations like the foxtrot and quickstep.

Want to give it a try? Here’s what Turning Pointe has to offer:

Ballroom Variety
Fridays, 6:30-7:30 p.m.

Turning Pointe’s Ballroom Variety class will introduce the basics of the American Smooth and American Rhythm styles of ballroom dancing. Students will develop posture, coordination, balance and control through a series of steps designed to carry each couple effortlessly across the dance floor, including the waltz, Viennese waltz, foxtrot, tango, cha-cha, rhumba, salsa and swing dance. Upon completion of the class, each student will have the ability to recognize and match each style of dance to the appropriate style of music and perform the basic and beginning supplemental steps of each dance. It’s the perfect way to diversify your dance resume with an understanding of eight different ballroom dances, prepare for social dancing at events, or get a unique workout. All ages welcome; no partners necessary!

Swing Dancing
Ages 8-12: Mondays, 5:15-6:00; Teen/Adult: Tuesdays, 7:30-8:30

Swing dancing is a fun, social dance that involves easy to learn movement, exciting steps and great music. It dates all the way from the Jazz Age, the 1920s, and has continued to be a popular form of dancing across social settings. There are many different styles of swing dancing, and each has it’s own tempo, steps and tricks. In Turning Pointe’s Swing Dancing class, students learn the basics of East Coast Swing, Lindy Hop and Charleston. Bring a partner or show up solo!

Register now at TurningPointeSchoolOfDance.com!

Turning Pointe's Top 10 Health Benefits of Dance

Turning Pointe’s Top 10 Health Benefits of Dance

Beloved, I pray that all may go well with you and that you may be in good health, as it goes well with your soul.                                                                                                             — 3 John 1:2

Did you know dance can burn as many calories as cycling? Or that it’s been proven to reduce stress? Whether you want to find some me-time during the week, lose weight, or simply stay healthy, Turning Pointe’s 2018-19 schedule has you covered. Need more proof? Check out Turning Pointe’s top 10 health benefits of dance:

1.     Dance provides a total body workout
Unlike traditional workouts that focus on isolated parts of the body, dance engages your muscles from head to toe, providing a well-rounded experience with every class. And because dance requires good posture, you can even improve circulation and breathing with every step.
 

2.     Dance includes a built-in cardiovascular workout
Why separate strength and cardio? Dance wraps both elements into one dynamic class, strengthening muscles while increasing stamina and improving endurance. By staying with the music and moving from head to toe, you’re stepping your way to a stronger, healthier you.
 

3.     Dance builds both strength and flexibility
Improving flexibility can decrease your risk of injuries and help your joints move through their full range of motion – which enables your muscles to work more effectively. Because dance incorporates muscle-toning movements and extensions, it’s the perfect way to build fitness and flexibility.
 

4.     Dance improves balance and coordination
Improving your balance can also reduce your risk of injury – and because the movements in dance involve standing on one foot, shifting your weight and even standing on tip-toes, you’ll build up supporting muscles and core muscles that contribute to better stability, spatial awareness and agility.

5.     Dance increases confidence
There’s nothing like the feeling of mastering a new skill. Challenge yourself to step out of your comfort zone, master a new combination each week and watch your confidence improve with every new step in your repertoire. Practice makes perfect! As you keep your body healthy, you’ll also improve patience and persistence.
 

6.     Dance improves brain productivity
In addition to physical benefits, dance can increase your attention span, memory and creativity. Studies have even shown that the neurological benefits unique to dance make it a better cognitive workout than puzzles, games and other brain teasers!
 

7.     Dance burns energy and calories
Studies show that dance can burn more than 300 calories every half hour – that’s more than the energy spent during an easy run or swim. Even a slower-paced dance class can be as beneficial as cycling.

8.     Dance provides an escape
Take a break from busy schedules and make time to focus your heart and mind. Dance encourages self-expression, and Turning Pointe’s mission to develop a dancer’s skills in an atmosphere that’s glorifying to God encourages each class to be as good for your heart as it is for your body and mind.
 

9.     Dance provides a social experience
In addition to toning your body and mind, dance improves communication and social skills by working with an instructor, working in groups and sharing the classroom with other students who have similar interests. Ask questions, engage with your classmates, praise His name and share a love of dance together!
 

10.  Dance makes staying healthy FUN!
It’s no wonder dance is a fun way to stay healthy – between the music, the fellowship and friendships forming in the studio, you won’t even notice you’re working up a sweat. Dance has even been proven to lower levels of cortisol – the stress hormone – while giving your body an endorphin boost, meaning you’ll leave the studio healthier and more refreshed!

Pre-Pointe/Pointe: Is it Right for Me?

Since the early 1830s, classical ballet has been performed on pointe, and odds are, you (or your budding ballerina) have dreamt of taking the stage in your very own satin shoes. Originally created to give the appearance of weightlessness while dancing, pointe work can be as beautiful as it is challenging – but is it right for you? Turning Pointe is here to answer your questions and prepare you to tackle those toes!

Pointe Classes (2018-19 School Year): 
Pre-Pointe
Thursdays, 7:30-8:15; Fridays, 5:30-6:15
Miss Erin Dial 

Beginning Pointe*
Fridays, 5:30-6:30
Miss Sara Murdaugh

Intermediate Pointe 1*
Fridays, 5:30-6:30
Miss Mimi McKinnis

Intermediate Pointe 2*
Thursdays, 6:30-7:30
Miss Erin Dial

*Must have teacher approval or placement class. To schedule a placement class, email turningpointeoffice@gmail.com.

Process & Expectations

Every student who dreams of dancing on pointe will begin in the Pre-Pointe class. (Pre-Pointe must be taken within the last 12 months prior to being evaluated.)
If the student is coming from another studio and is already on pointe, said student will be observed in the Beginning Pointe class and redirected as necessary. If the student is coming from another studio and was “going to be placed on pointe,” the student will take the pre-pointe class and be moved to Beginning Pointe when ready.
Pointe evaluations are held once per year, prior to Turning Pointe’s summer class sessions. When Pre-Pointe is complete, students will schedule their evaluation through Miss Sara Murdaugh. Each evaluation takes 20-30 minutes, and three teachers will be present to evaluate each student on their readiness through a series of exercises. Students will be given a yes or no for pointe shoes immediately following their evaluation. Students will also receive their evaluation forms from each teacher via email in order to be encouraged and know which areas need improvement.
Once a student is given the green light for pointe shoes, said student will start Beginning Pointe in the fall; however, shoes will not be purchased until late September/early October. In this class, students will learn to sew and tie their shoes, place themselves correctly on pointe, and gain strength in a pointe-specific way. (Most of this class is spent at the barre!) Please note students should not practice in their pointe shoes at home until a teacher clears them for specific things – injures can occur if pointe shoes break in wrong or a student is not ready for unsupervised pointe work.

From Beginning Pointe, students will progress through each level of pointe at their own rate. Pointe students must take two ballet classes per week once on pointe and are asked to take a ballet class immediately prior to their pointe class. If students are unable to take a ballet class due to scheduling or finances, they MUST arrive to their pointe class 20 minutes early to warm themselves up.

Requirements For Going On Pointe

•    Student must be 12 or older.
•    Student must have three consecutive years of ballet training.
•    Student must come to two ballet technique classes a week.
•    Student must have sufficient strength to:
1.    Hold their turnout while dancing. 
2.    Maintain proper alignment and demonstrate leg strength and foot flexibility.
3.    Use pliés while dancing. 
4.    Keep heels forward toward the big toe (no sickling). 
5.    Point their feet while dancing (without being reminded). 
6.    Pique passé with a straight leg. 
7.    Be able to do 32 relevés in the center without ankles wiggling. 
8.    Be able to hold a passé balance on half-pointe, well-placed (hips square, back straight, legs turned out, and to have strength to balance on demi pointe).
9.    Be in good health and able to take a whole class. (If the student frequently needs to rest because of illness or injury, they are not strong enough for the extra demands that pointe work requires.)

FAQs

Q: How old do I need to be to take the Pre-Pointe class?
A: While 12 is the minimum age we will allow students to go on pointe, they can be any age to take the Pre-Pointe class. A Pre-Pointe class will improve strength, alignment, foot flexibility and understanding of proper technique regardless of age or the dancer’s age or intent to be put on pointe. 

Q: If I took Pre-Pointe, am I ready to be evaluated for pointe shoes?
A: If you’ve taken Pre-Pointe within the last year, you may schedule a pointe evaluation; however, pointe is not an automatic event. A finite amount of strength, flexibility, technique and dedication must be achieved to ensure long term health as well as a fulfilling experience. Your health and future in dance is the top priority! 

Q: How many times should I expect to be evaluated before I get to go on pointe?
A: We are all fearfully and wonderfully made! God made each dancer unique, and as such, every dancer will go through the process differently. If you are not yet ready for pointe shoes, you will be asked to repeat Pre-Pointe or improve in certain areas before scheduling another evaluation. It may take one try, it may take 10! The important thing is to trust the process and not get discouraged. Factors like growth spurts, injuries and long absences can all contribute to a difficult evaluation, but something can be learned from every experience. 

Q: When will I get my shoes? 
A: Dancers enrolled in Beginning Pointe will purchase their shoes as a class in late September/early October (although your class will begin with the start of Turning Pointe’s 2018-19 session at the beginning of September). This is an all-day event, so students should clear their calendar of all time sensitive commitments!

Q: How often will I need to replace my shoes?
A: Unfortunately, pointe shoes are expensive and will need to be replaced at least once a year (Beginning and Intermediate pointe students usually need two pairs per year). A student must be re-fit by the same fitter (or organization) each time a new pair is needed. As a student progresses in level and dances more often, the shoes will need to be replaced more often. The health of a dancer’s feet and body rely on the understanding of the financial and time commitment.

It is also common that your first pointe shoe will no longer meet your needs after 3-6 months of use. Dancers’ feet and function change dramatically in the first year of pointe work, and it typically takes 2-4 pairs of shoes – once feet have stopped changing as dramatically – before you gain a strong understanding of what’s perfect for you.

Q: Do I need to be in Turning Pointe’s Training Division to be on pointe? 
A: Not necessarily. Pointe is an extra class and does not count as a ballet technique class. Students in the recreational division need to come to ballet class twice a week, plus their pointe class, and we strongly recommend that these students take the Training class directly prior to their pointe class to properly prepare their feet and bodies for pointe work.

Questions? Email Miss Sara Murdaugh at teacher.turningpointedance@gmail.com. Ready to do what it takes? Click here to register for 2018-19 classes!
 

Turning Pointe's Summer Stretching Challenge

Let us not grow weary of doing good, for in due season we will reap, if we do not give up.   – Galatians 6:9

 Did you know taking the time to stretch every day can help prevent injuries? When done regularly, stretching can increase joint mobility and range of motion, improve circulation, posture and coordination, and even reduce stress.

Summer months often mean less time in the studio, but it’s still important to take the time to stretch on a regular basis. Need some motivation? Take Turning Pointe’s Summer Stretching Challenge to make sure you’re ready to go when school session classes resume!

Take the Challenge:
Click here to download and print your stretching log, and challenge yourself to stretch for an hour a week this summer – that’s just 10 minutes a day, Monday through Saturday. Fill up the grid as you count down the minutes, and watch your flexibility improve! Sign your name and bring your completed log to the studio when fall classes begin to hang your accomplishments on the Summer Stretching Wall of Fame.

Tips for a Positive Experience:

·      Always warm up before you stretch. Stretching cold muscles can be counterproductive, and often leads to pulls and irritation. Start by jogging in place, playing outside or doing some jumping jacks to get your blood moving before starting your stretching routine.

·      Avoid bouncing or pulsing into a stretch, as this can cause small muscle tears. Relax into each position, hold still and take slow, deep breaths.

·      Hold still in each position for at least 30 seconds before moving on, and always make sure you stretch both sides evenly.

Need help designating some time to stretch each week? Sign up for Pilates Fusion, running each week July only, Tuesdays from 10-11 a.m. and Thursdays from 3-4 p.m. Click here to register for July classes, see Turning Pointe’s full summer schedule, class descriptions, dress code and more.

Get to Know the Turning Pointe Staff: Meet Ms. Jenner

Jenner Van Horn is the School Administrator at Turning Pointe Dance. She oversees all aspects of class registrations and family accounts, assists with the studio schedule, processes improvements for the studio, oversees the front desk staff, assists families and students with questions about classes or accounts, and oversees backstage details for Turning Pointe’s annual dance recitals.

Miss Jenner’s Go-To Scripture:
This is what the Lord says to you: Do not be afraid or discouraged because of this vast army. For the battle is not yours, but God's. … For we have no power to face this vast army that is attacking us. We do not know what to do, but our eyes are on you.—    2 Chronicles 20:15

“These verses remind me that the Lord is in control. A ‘vast army’ could be anything difficult I am facing—in parenting, marriage, friendships, finances, etc. Anytime that I feel that I don't know what to do in a tough situation, I am reminded of these verses. It's true, I don't know what to do, but I don't have to know. The Lord has it. I just need to be obedient in that moment. One day at a time, one moment at a time. When I keep my eyes fixed on Him, peace comes... even when it's tough.”

Four Fun Facts:

Years with Turning Pointe: “10 years as a parent, three years in this job.”

Favorite part of the job: “Interacting with the TP families!”

Favorite thing to do in her spare time: “HA! Spare time? I would say watching movies or going to musicals.”

Favorite treat: “Lulu's FroYo!”

At Turning Pointe Dance, our mission is to fully develop a dancer’s skills and talents in an atmosphere that is glorifying to God. We provide excellence in dance and theater instruction while cultivating hearts of worship and nurturing creativity.

Come in and meet Miss Jenner, and get to know the rest of the Turning Pointe Staff here. From bunny hops and streamers with the budding ballerinas to pirouettes with the pointe students, we have something special for everyone!

Top 10 Ways to Make the Most of Your Summer Classes

Turning Pointe’s Top 10 Ways to Make the Most of Your Summer Classes

This summer, Turning Pointe is excited to offer a June and July session of mini mester classes, in addition a variety of camps, intensives and workshops. Students can sign up for one or both months of summer classes, with plenty of summer discounts available. Want to maximize your time in the studio over the next few months? Check out Turning Pointe’s top 10 ways to make the most of your summer classes:

1.     Be on Time
Arrive at the studio 15 minutes before your class. This gives you time to get settled and be ready to go as soon as class begins. Summer classes are typically only 45 minutes to an hour, so make the most of every minute.
 

2.     Be Prepared
Before you leave home, show your dance bag some love. Are the shoes you’ll need for class inside? Both of them? If you need to change clothes before class at the studio, do you have everything you’ll need? Summer activities can make for busy days, so make sure you’re prepared – going into the classroom pulled together shows respect for the class and for your teacher.

Not sure what you’ll need? Check out Turning Pointe’s summer dress code here.
 

3.     Be Attentive
Unlike the regular dance season, summer classes run for a much shorter duration – usually just a few months. Soak in every minute of instruction and worship, and take notes in a notebook or prayer journal. Writing things down is a great way to retain information, plus you can reference it again throughout the year.
 

4.     Set Goals
Summer can be a great time to focus on dance – there are fewer distractions, less homework and no recital choreography to remember. Refine your focus and set some summer goals. Want to master that double pirouette? How about getting all the way down in those left splits? Even if it’s as simple as building strength in your ankles or improving your turnout, summer is the perfect time to work toward those milestones.
 

5.     Challenge Yourself
With a shorter class commitment, summer is the perfect time to step out of your comfort zone and try something new. Turning Pointe has a wide variety of styles to choose from this summer – try one new style or try them all! You never know what you’ll take away from each new experience, how that bullet point on your resume will serve you in the future, or who you’ll meet along the way.

Want to improve precision and refine unison? Sign up for Rockette Dance Camp. Ever thought about performing on Broadway or been asked to sing at an audition? Why not give vocal lessons a try? Not sure which style you want to try next? There’s even a Dance Sampler class that can give you a little taste of everything.

Think outside the box and check out Turning Pointe’s full list of summer classes here.

6.     Stand Out
Along with a shorter duration, summer sessions can also see smaller class sizes. Take advantage of the individualized attention by asking questions, standing in the front line and making the most of every opportunity in each class.
 

7.     Recover and Rebuild
The Bible tells us that our bodies are temples. As dancers, they’re also our tools for worship. Summer classes are a great time to focus on the care and maintenance of your temple, whether that’s building strength in a Pilates or Barre class, re-energizing your heart in an Outreach or Worship class or unwinding after a long season with a simple technique or improv concept class. Be sure to stretch, drink plenty of water and take care of yourself while classes are shorter and training is less intense.

Therefore, I urge you, brothers and sisters, in view of God’s mercy, to offer your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God—this is your true and proper worship.- Romans 12:1

8.     Keep it Up
Even with summer camps, vacations and other obligations, being diligent with attendance in summer dance classes will give you a huge advantage when regular classes start back up. Keep up muscle memory, flexibility, strength and technique so you don’t miss a beat in September!
 

9.     Serve Together
Whether you’re experiencing a new class together or continuing in your favorite style side-by-side, summer classes can foster friendships that transcend the studio. Turning Pointe’s mission is to fully develop a dancer’s skills and talents in an atmosphere that is glorifying to God. While you’re making the most of your dance training, spend the summer gathered in His name in a Christ-centered environment as we worship and pray together all summer long.
 

10.  Have FUN!
The most important way to make the most of summer classes? Maximize JOY! Sure, dance training will build strength, confidence, self-expression and creativity, but more than that, dance classes can help you find joy in the movements and simply have fun.

Are you ready to dance this summer? Head to TurningPointeSchoolofDance.com for all the info you’ll need to make your classes count! 

Navigating Recital- Help for the First Time Dance Parent!

The first dance recital can be full of nonstop surprises for the first-time dance parent. Dance has its own culture of expectations and traditions, and they all converge on recital day.  If you’re feeling overwhelmed, the following insider tips can help you make the most of your first dance recital, whether your dancer is a toddler or a teen.

Bring snacks and activities. Recitals can seem long to young children. Be prepared to stay and cheer for every number, and, more importantly, prepare for your dancer to be happy when he or she is back stage. Send some things to entertain your child; card games, a sketch pad or stuffed animal can make the wait much shorter. Also plan for your dancer to be hungry. Recital times often coincide with snack or meal times, so bring non-messy foods, such as dried fruit and nuts, cheese and crackers, or granola bars are good options. Avoid sodas and juices because of a) the danger of spilling on a beloved tutu, and b) the sugar content will not sit well with a child waiting for the end of the show.  

Costume tips and tricks. You may have several costumes to manage. When you pick up your child’s costumes, avoid the temptation to let her wear them before dress rehearsal. They should look fresh for the performance. Costumes can be itchy, too. Sequins and glitter come at the cost of comfort sometimes. Nude-colored leotards are a good option for your dancer to wear under her costumes. This also provides coverage and eliminates any shyness about having to do quick costume changes in front of the other dancers. Also note that many studios provide instructions on how each accessory should be worn. Keep notes on those and bring them with you to avoid any confusion. It also helps to keep accessories for each costume in a zip lock bag with each bag attached to the corresponding costume. And whatever you do, don’t forget your dancer’s shoes!   Come equipped. Planning and preparation are key. Bring tissues, make-up supplies, plenty of bobby pins and hair elastics. A hairbrush and hairspray are crucial additions to your recital bag. Look for double-sided “fashion tape,” a costume tape that is magic for keeping costumes in place in a pinch. Clear nail polish works wonders on last-minute runs in tights.  

About the hair. Speaking of bobby pins, a little bun know-how can go a long way. Dance buns can seem daunting at first, but with a few practice twists and some insider knowledge, you’ll master them in no time. First, damp hair is much easier to work with than dry hair with all its flyaway action. Texturizing spray is also a great tool to tame and prepare your dancer’s hair. Brush her hair out and pull it into a tight ponytail.   At this point, if your dancer has shorter to medium-length hair, you can use a bun-maker—also known as those squishy nets shaped like doughnuts. If your dancer has very long hair, skip the bun-maker. Instead, twist the ponytail. Wrap the twisted ponytail around the base of the ponytail, and voila… you have your bun. (Note that this technique works on medium-length hair, too). Two important secrets: wrap your bun in the same direction you twist, and invest in some high-quality hair pins to secure the bun. Look for pins that are the same color as your dancer’s hair, and tuck them in tight. Keep in mind that your dancer is going to be jumping and twirling, arms moving every which way. Building a hair-pin and hairspray fortress will help to keep that bun in place through all the action. Hairnets also work great for buns!  

Expect to purchase a ticket. Virtually all studios sell tickets to their recitals to cover the cost of the venue and other expenses that come with producing a top-notch experience for the children and their families. If you attend a studio that performs in a theatre and provides services like online ticketing and reserved seating, expect to pay more for those amenities.  

Nerves. Remember that our children are little emotional sponges. It’s normal for parents sometimes to feel anxious or nervous about their children’s first events. But work to avoid channeling your nerves to your child, who is just excited for a fun experience. Remind yourself of what’s most important (your child’s enjoyment of the show experience), take a deep breath and cheer (wildly!) for your dancer. If you observe that your dancer is nervous, remind him or her that everyone is there simply to celebrate a great year of dancing and to enjoy the show!

Plan for a gift. Recital gifts are a strong tradition in dance. Flowers are typical; our studio partners with a local florist and you can pre-order flowers to be delivered to the event. This is a nice, stress-free option. If your dancer is not the flower type, you may consider a balloon bouquet, a recital teddy bear or small gift basket. Younger dancers love receiving stuffed animals to help them remember their first recital for a long time to come.  

Save the memories. In shows in theaters, cameras and phones are not allowed to be used during the performance. Even easier: just order the professional DVD or Blu Ray. It’s an extra investment that pays for itself when you can put the phone or camera down and enjoy the show and dancers love watching other friends dances too after the show!  

Remember the Why. A big part of the dance training process includes learning through performance. The experience helps build self-esteem and confidence. Onstage experience can also result in better school presentations, improved social skills, and strong interview skills for future college or job opportunities. Participating in rehearsals helps children develop retention skills, teamwork, and adaptability.

As we prepare for the end of our year recital at Turning Pointe Dance, we need to ask, “Why are we having a recital?” 1. We are dancing because we like to perform. 2. We are dancing because we like to wear costumes. 3. We are dancing because we want all of our family and friends to see us. Even though all of these reasons might be true, here at Turning Pointe, we dance for a greater purpose. “My soul magnifies the Lord,” Luke 1:46. We hope that all our dancers will be “Big Lights” that shine for Jesus. We want to glorify God through our bodies with dancing and present the Gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ.

I also read a great article that I wanted to share part of:  Researchers Bruce Brown and Rob Miller asked college athletes what their parents said that made them feel great and brought them joy when they played sports. Want to know the six words they most want to hear their parents say? “I love to watch you play.” (or in our case “I love to watch you dance”) That’s it. Nothing aggrandizing like “you’re an all-star,” and nothing discouraging like “here are a couple of things I noticed that you can work on.” Just “I love to watch you play.” As we gear up for soccer, band concerts, gymnastics practice, dance recitals, and everything else we’ll be watching our kids do these next few months, lets internalize these six words. We want our kids to hear that doing what they do, and learning about who God created them to be, is a joy to watch as it unfolds.

~Ms. Tina

Construction Update #3

So, the good news is we finally have permits and work is happening on the inside of the building...yay! The bad news is we were just thrown a curve ball...because of our change of use and occupancy a sprinkler system has to be added to the main level (there is already one in the basement). This wasn't a major deal until we found out that we also have to add it to the attic space, which either means taking out the entire ceiling or cutting and patching lots of the ceiling. They are telling us it could take a month for design, approval through regional, and installation, so we're working through those details to see if there is a way to speed up the process.

To say that I'm disappointed is an understatement...I want to be in our new home more than anyone!! So thank you for your patience as we navigate all of these details. I know the question on everyone's mind is "when are we moving?" That is a great question and one I would like to know the answer to as well:) As soon as I know, I will pass that information along, but for now, hang tight!! Parking is maddening, the lobby is crowded, the 4th studio is inconvenient...but good things are on the horizon. Thank you for your support, belief in Turning Pointe, and prayers! The song "Take Courage" has been speaking to my heart especially this week and I hope these words encourage you too:

Take courage my heart
Stay steadfast my soul
He's in the waiting
Hold onto your hope
As your triumph unfolds
He's never failing

Sing praise my soul
Find strength in joy
Let His Words lead you on
Do not forget
His great faithfulness
He'll finish all He's begun

Specific prayer requests:
*Provision
*Peace in the process
*Favor and timing

Drywall is going up!

Mens bathroom extension framed 

Ladies bathroom extension framed. There will be 3 stalls!

Looking down part of the lobby from where front desk will be...look at that space!!

Looking into the 4th studio. Viewing windows are vertical so little ones won't have to stand on chairs to see in!

5 changing stalls framed out in the dressing room

Parking lot has been repaved and is looking great!

Outside of the building has been painted and our main sign is up. Monument sign by the road to be redone soon!

Construction Update #2

"Blessed are the flexible for they shall not be bent out of shape." This is something we're continuing to learn in this process and are just walking each day by faith. 

Lots of things are happening on the outside of the building! We have a new coat of paint that has given the building a fresh look (thank you Meinz family) and that is still being completed. In the basement, Mr. Swank (along with the help of Mr. Peterson and Josiah Swank) built us an amazing costume room for all of our costumes to hang in! We are so excited to get in there and organize and be able to see what we have instead of looking through bins. What a huge blessing! You'll also see a pic of our storage room which is packed right now with Fidele sets. And the parking lot will be resurfaced and repainted in the next few weeks! 

As far as the inside of the building, we still do not have permits. We've run into some issues and the architect and engineers are working to get them resolved and get us moving forward in the process. This has been the most difficult part and much of it is out of my control. We were on a tight timeline to begin with and will most likely be starting our fall classes in our current space, so as we have more details and the plan is coming together we will be in touch with our families. I'm encouraging myself and all of our families to see the big picture...we WILL be in the building, we just don't know exactly when yet. This is God's building and He is going to do it His way...so we're trusting Him and asking for continued prayer. It is going to be worth the wait, you guys!

Work Day- Saturday August 19th from 2-5pm (note time change) at the new studio 5540 Library Lane. Please no children! This is a construction site and they could get hurt very easily. We will be pulling weeds/pruning bushes, organizing the basement, and putting together IKEA furniture. If there are any dads/brothers who feel the Lord laying on their heart to cut down the native grass/weeds behind the building, that would be a huge blessing. Things to bring: weed eaters, garden/work gloves, tools for furniture, drills, trowels or gardening tools. We'll also be having a prayer time starting at 2:00...I want to bathe this place inside and out with prayer! We need some breakthroughs, so I think that calls for some TP family prayer time! 

Thank you all so much for your support and for believing in this God-sized dream. We'll continue to keep you updated.