Preparing for a dance competition can feel daunting, especially for new dance parents. With some thoughtful planning, you can make competition days less stressful and more enjoyable for everyone. Here are some tried-and-true tips from experienced Just Dance! parents to help you and your dancer shine.

1. Start Early and Stay Calm

How you get your dancer ready will set the tone for the entire day. Young dancers rarely want to sit still for all the makeup and hair. Every parent gets frustrated. But, when you have extra time, you can let that frustration go. When you are short on time, that frustration turns to stress for both you and your dancer.

Plan Your Timing: Aim to have your dancer ready two hours before they perform. Building in extra time helps you stay calm, even if things don’t go as planned. If you end up ready ahead of schedule, enjoy a relaxed start by cheering on other performances or grabbing a seat early.

2. Keep It Positive

Self-Care for You and Your Dancer: Competition days are long and can be draining. Remember that everyone feels some frustration now and then! If you or your dancer needs a moment, take a breather, apologize if tensions run high, and give yourself grace.

Encouraging Words Throughout the Day: Offer praise often, focusing on preparation, hard work, and behavior. This builds confidence and shifts attention from the performance outcome to the dedication shown.

You might say, “Every judge has their own perspective, and on another day it could have gone differently.” Follow up with, “The dancer who won was incredible—that gives you something to work toward!” Encourage your dancer to find inspiration in others, embracing the challenge of competition as motivation to grow.

3. Performance Etiquette

Be Mindful of Movement: Avoid entering or exiting the auditorium when a performance is happening, so you don’t disrupt other families’ viewing. You’ve spent hours waiting for your dancer’s two-minutes on stage – think of how upset you would be if someone walked in front of you, so don’t do it to someone else.

Cover Costumes: If your dancer leaves the dressing room in costume before performing, cover up with a jacket or shirt to keep costumes clean and stage-ready.

No Photos or Videos: Most competitions do not allow audience members to take photos or video inside the auditorium – this can result in disqualification. The event usually has photos and videos available for purchase.

Stay Through Awards: Awards ceremonies recognize all dancers’ hard work, so support your team by attending and cheering them on.

4. Backstage Etiquette

Only Dancers and Teachers Backstage: The backstage area is for dancers and instructors only. This helps maintain focus and reduces overcrowding.

Encourage Respect and Positivity: Remind your dancer to congratulate others. Every competition is a chance to support and learn from peers.

5. Pack Wisely for Competition Day

Here’s a checklist of essentials to make the day go smoothly:

• Cash (for parking or event purchases)
• Safety Pins and Mini Sewing Kit (for costume adjustments)
• Shout Wipes (for quick stain removal)
• Bobby Pins, Hairspray, and Mirror
• All Makeup Supplies and Phone Charger/Backup Battery
• Pain Reliever (for any long-day headaches)
• Snacks and Drinks for you and your dancer (avoid anything that stains)
• Blanket (for sitting in the dressing room) and Quiet Games (for downtime)

With these tips and essentials, you’ll be well-prepared for a memorable competition day that focuses on celebrating your dancer’s hard work and growth. Embrace each moment, and enjoy the experience!