There are hundreds of studios and classes to choose from.

Some will focus on dance as a recreational activity, others as preparation for a career, others as a fitness or social activity.

Ausdance provides these tips for parents when deciding on a dance school for their child.

Some schools have a busy schedule of competitions and performances that they expect their students to participate in, and some will expect students to take formal examinations in a particular syllabus.

Other schools will have a more informal approach and focus on enjoyment, fitness or creativity.

The needs and expectations of parents and students will, of course, vary depending on the age of the children, but be aware that students will benefit greatly from experiencing a variety of dance styles and teachers, and opportunities to perform in different environments, and so ideally will not be locked into one particular style.

If your child is highly motivated after several years of varied dance experience (perhaps around the ages of eight–10) you can encourage them to specialise in the particular style/s that they love, while continuing to develop a sound technique that will underpin all of their dancing.

If your child enjoys his or her lessons, looks forward to the next one, smiles and is happy in class, is rarely injured and seems to be learning,  the chances are that the school is meeting your child’s need for now.