Expert: Dianne M. Buxton - 2/25/2010

Question
I noticed many people basically asking the same questions over and over. I scaled through to see if anyone asked this one. I didn't see anyone. I looked until I saw questions dated from 2008.
Like most here, I dance until I was about 15 years of age. I'm am very petite, my height 5'3 and 115 pounds. I don't think my weight will be an issue as much as my age. Of course i am not trying to be a professional.

My question: I am taking classes now, my desire is to teach little children under age 5. Will I need to attend college in order to walk into a dance school for children and apply as a teacher? I love kids and thought I'd rather be around them in a ballet school, then a daycare changing diapers all day. I am in Georgia, and I know the law about educational practices are different from - state- to state.
When I do a Google search it basically says I need training in college to teach. However,I want to make absolutely sure- it doesn't specify the desired age I'd like to teach. Thanks. God bless you for asking our questions.

Answer
Hello Gilliam. You do not need to have a college or teaching degree if you are qualified and can find a dance studio to teach in.

Typically, you would need training perhaps in ballet grades, such as Royal Academy of Dancing
www.radusa.org

or Cecchetti training
www.cecchettiusa.org

...which means you need a local studio who is training one of those systems. Often while training, you can assist a teacher (for free, until experienced) and you can learn how to give corrections, run a class, etc.

You may also find an extension course in a college in creative dance for children. Alhough, many teachers teach this from their own imagination and ability with small children.

Talk to your studio owner about their requirements for teachers and I'm sure you'll get more information.

All the best, Dianne


Hi again... I just found this article and thought you'd enjoy it...

http://www.insideballet.com/2009/10/26/teaching-creative-movement/