HOW TO GET YOUR STUDENTS TO COMMIT?

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Are you finding that kids in general seem to be increasingly unwilling to put in the effort necessary to getting better at dance? They expect great results from dance class, but they don’t want to do the work required to achieve those skills they so desperately want… They want to look good on stage, but they don’t actually want to put in the practice necessary for that? You do your best to inspire them to be great, to try harder, assuring them that their diligence and hard work will pay off…but they just don’t care enough to try? You’re not alone… Let’s talk about the change in commitment levels and less than desirable attendance rate of some students each week that lots of dance teachers are experience at the moment…and some possible ways to combat it… Now, this is a tricky topic and it has certainly changed over the years…I know for many of us, attending classes was non- negotiable – in fact, it probably didn’t even enter your head to ever miss class – the commitment to ourselves and our team was unwavering, so for us dance teachers now, it doesn’t sit well that many students don’t have the same commitment. When we break it down, kids these days have so many options and opportunities and sometimes I think it’s the parents driving this need to try out every activity or not miss a party or choose sport over a rehearsal…why?? Maybe they are living through their child…who knows? What-ever the reason, the reality is that we as teachers, need to do our best to continue to instil the importance of attendance, commitment and putting in the work needed for the student to continue to improve, get great results and look amazing while performing… So, how do we do this??? Now, before going into some ideas with you, I’d like to start with a DISCLAIMER: there are times where students miss classes, rehearsal, performances etc. for genuine reasons. As much as I expect commitment from my students, I also know that sometimes there are unavoidable things that occur in life…and a lot of the time it is out of the control of the student.  Remember to make sure you have the full facts before going into ‘mind-explosion’ mode…however, in saying that, sadly times are simply different and it can feel like dance is not their priority… However, some things to try…
  1. Clearly Explain If They Want Results, They Need To Attend Every Lesson:
You need to communicate this very clearly with the parents as well as your students. Let them know your expectations and the requirements when they commit to joining your class. Explain to them your classes are structured in a way that their child is required to reach benchmarks every lesson in order for them to progress and by missing class or not showing up 100% committed, they simply can’t expect to grow, develop and improve exponentially…
  1. Set Rules & Boundaries With Consequences:
For example, if you miss 3 lessons, you won’t be able to perform at ‘such and such event’…or…If you come back next lesson and it’s evident you haven’t practiced (without good reason), then you won’t be able to be in this section of the dance…now of course this should still be done respectfully, but fair is fair, if they can’t commit, then they shouldn’t reap the rewards or simply let down the rest of the team…too harsh???…Nah…I don’t think so…
  1. Give Everyone Dates, Times and Details As Soon As You Can:
Out of respect for the parent and students (and knowing that they too have busy lives), give them dates, times and details of events and rehearsals as soon as you can so it’s in their diary and there is less chance of a clash and they can’t use the excuse that they already have something on.
  1. Remind Your Students About The Importance Of Committing To The Team:
Talk to your students regularly and remind them of the importance of committing to the team and how this will carry through the rest of their life with whatever career they chose, so start practicing good work ethic now…cause it will pay off in the future..
  1. Tell Them How Important They Are To You And The Team
Finally, simply remind them how important they are in the team and by them not turning up to practice, rehearsals, performances is not only letting themselves and you down, but their dance friends and family too… …but you know what…in saying this, there really are many who ARE whole-heartedly passionate, committed, regularly practice and give 100% all the time – I think sometimes, our focus is shifted to the ‘others’…so let’s make a conscious effort to celebrate and enjoy these students – they are the future of our industry! Ok then…hopefully this is giving you somewhere to start. Don’t forget to share this with other dance teachers you know who are in similar situations…and I look forward to sharing with you more ways to combat our daily struggles…