I have beginning students ask me what they can practice at home to improve their dancing. My usual answer is…nothing. As a new student (especially in ballet), doing steps at home can actually be a bad thing. If the student doesn’t understand technique, they can begin to develop bad habits which can be very hard to break.
This view may seem extreme, but I have found it is a good one to advocate. When students have some knowledge of technique it is fine to give suggestions for practice, but with a rank beginner it is better that they come to class and learn how to do the movements right first. Understand the theory behind things a bit before they try to do it on their own. In my opinion it would be better for them to double up and take two classes if they want to get more practice.
It’s something to think about if you are a new teacher, or if you have never taught beginning students. Be ready with an answer–you are sure to be asked.
I would have to agree. I do think it is great when students show some initiative though. To avoid discouraging that desire to take improvement into their own hands, I usually offer some things they can do at home… foot strengtheners like scrunching up towels w/ their toes, theraband exercises (once they’ve been taught in class), stretches, etc. It seems to work well because they just want to feel like they are doing something. So it’s good to have some of those in your back pocket as well.
I agree Nichelle! I do that as well…other things they can do include practice standing like a dancer (shoulders back, long neck, head up) and flexing and pointing the feet while sitting down. Thanks for chiming in!
I agree too. Studying ballet technique (reading or watching) is helpful. But practicing alone is not useful for beginners.
Thanks for the affirmation! I agree that reading or watching can provide a good alternative!
I always tell my students that their “homework” is to walk with their heads held high in the hallways at school. So many kids/teenagers walk with their head and eyes looking down at the floor. Walking with your head up helps technique and helps self esteem as well. Other “homework” assignments I have given is to be observant of the world around them (how a tree branch curves or how a cat jumps) and noticing if you tense your muscles throughout the day like when you brush your teeth.
I agree that learning proper technique is so important. Patience is worth so much more then fixing bad habits!!