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Writer's pictureNiki Maple

Tips for the First Ballet Class

Updated: May 12, 2023

Arriving at the studio for the first ballet class can elicit a feeling of both nervousness and excitement. The first day will be full of first impressions and starting off on the right foot. Keep these tips in mind to make the most out of the first day:

  • Wear the appropriate Ballet Attire

Two young ballet students holding hands

Some schools may have strict dress codes to follow while others may not. Be sure to read up on the required attire for needed for the level attending. For most schools, the dress code will be a leotard, ballet pink tights, and ballet pink shoes. For schools with specific dress codes, follow what the school is suggesting and buy the brands that they recommend/require. This is not the time to try to save an extra $5 by buying something similar to what is listed. Instructors appreciate when families and students follow their requirements, and it may end up costing you more if they don't accept similar styles.

  • Wear Normal Clothing over Ballet Attire Outside of Class

When traveling to and from the studio, normal street clothes should be worn over leotards and tights. Never wear ballet shoes outside of the studio. Dirt can easily get on leotards, tights, and shoes, and the studio will not be happy about students who track dirt onto their Marley floors.

  • Proper Ballet Hair

Hair should be secured in a nice ballet bun either at the nape of the neck or at the crown of the head. Young children's hair can sometimes be tricky to work with, so alternative styles may be acceptable depending on the school requirements. The main idea is to create a hairstyle that keeps hair secured and out of the dancer's face.

  • Bring a Water Bottle

Be sure to prepare a water bottle for class as most classes will take a short break sometime in the middle. Water bottles should be either plastic, aluminum or other non-breakable material, and should only be filled with water. Some students may show up with the same water bottle so don't forget to label yours beforehand.

  • Arrive 15-20 minutes Early

Give yourself enough time to arrive early so that you can find the studio and get situated before class begins. Little ones will need to get their ballet shoes on and remove any excess clothing they wore over their ballet attire. If registration paperwork needs to be filled out, this extra time will allow you to do that before class begins.

  • Studio Social Media Rules

It might be very tempting to record every second of the first class, but many studios have policies that prohibited recording classes and taking pictures. Be sure to check out the student handbook about all of the rules surrounding posting, and always make sure to ask before posting pictures of any other students or teachers.

  • Have Fun!

Don't forget to have fun on this new journey of learning ballet!

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