AMBITION PERFORMING ARTS AIRDRIE
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Performing Arts Answers for Parents
Ask APA: Answers for Performing Arts Parents
Choosing the right performing arts experience for your child can come with lots of questions.
When should they start? Which program might be the right fit? What if they’re shy? How do you know when they’re ready for something new?
We asked the teachers at Ambition Performing Arts to share their thoughts on some of the questions we hear from parents most often. These answers come from their own experiences in the studio, working with children and teens and watching them learn, grow, find their confidence, and discover what they love.
Whether you’re completely new to performing arts or your child has already found their passion, we hope you’ll find a little guidance, encouragement, and maybe even an answer to a question you’ve been wondering about.
Answers from Miss Adrianne
What age is best for my child to start dance classes?
There really isn’t one perfect age! Children can start exploring music and movement with a parent as young as one or two, while independent classes often begin around age three. The most important thing is finding a class designed for their age and stage. Starting early can be wonderful, but starting later does not mean they are behind.
My child loves dancing at home. How do I know if they're ready for dance lessons?
If your child lights up when music comes on, copies movements or regularly puts on shows in the living room, it may be time to give a class a try! They do not need to already know how to dance. That is what the class is for. A beginner class will help them turn that natural enthusiasm into new skills.
My child is shy. Can dance, drama or singing classes help build their confidence?
Absolutely! Confidence is earned by doing things outside of your comfort zone, and performing arts classes provide a safe space for children to do that. For a shy child, the first win might simply be walking into the room, joining the group or using their voice in front of others. Each small success helps them build confidence that carries far beyond the classroom.
How do I choose between dance, drama, music and singing for my child?
Start with what they naturally enjoy. Do they move whenever music comes on? Create characters and stories? Sing all day? Love experimenting with instruments? A trial class is a great option because sometimes the class a child connects with most is not the one you expected!
My child has never taken a performing arts class before. Is it ever too late to start?
Never! Every performer has a first class. A good school will help place your child somewhere they can feel comfortable, learn safely and build their skills at a pace that makes sense for them. They do not need years of previous experience to get started.
What should parents look for when choosing a dance or performing arts school for their child?
Look beyond the costumes and performances and pay attention to what happens in the classroom each week. Are the teachers qualified, kind and continuing to learn? Is the material age-appropriate? Is communication clear? Most importantly, does it feel like a place where your child will be known, supported and encouraged to grow?
What type of dance class is best for a beginner: ballet, jazz, hip hop, tap, lyrical or something else?
Honestly, the best first class is usually the one your child is excited to attend! Jazz is upbeat, ballet builds strong foundations, tap is rhythmic and hip hop is energetic. Younger dancers often do really well in a combination class that lets them try a little bit of everything. Lyrical is beautiful, but it is usually easier once a dancer has some jazz or ballet experience.
Does my child need to take ballet if they want to become a strong dancer?
Ballet is incredibly helpful. It builds strength, control, balance, alignment and technique that carries into many other dance styles. It is not the only way to become a strong performer, but for dancers who want to pursue more advanced technical training, I would definitely recommend it.
What is the difference between recreational and competitive dance, and how do I know which is right for my child?
Recreational dance offers great training with a more manageable weekly commitment. Competitive dance includes more classes, rehearsals, performances, travel and a bigger commitment from the whole family. Competitive is not automatically the “next step” for every dancer. The right choice depends on your child’s goals, readiness and genuine desire to do more. Both paths can offer an amazing experience.
How do I know when my child is ready to add another dance or performing arts class?
Look at the whole child, not just their ability. Are they excited to attend, engaged in class and managing their current schedule well? Are they asking for more? Adding another class can support their training, but it also gives them more time at the studio, which often helps friendships and that sense of community grow more quickly. More is not always better, though. We still want children to have time for school, family, rest and just being a kid.
What are the biggest benefits of performing arts classes outside of learning to dance, act or sing?
There are so many! Children learn confidence, communication, creativity, teamwork, focus and time management. They practice receiving feedback, working through challenges and contributing to a group. Most children will not become professional performers, but every child will use the life skills they gain through the arts.
Can drama classes help children with public speaking and communication skills?
Definitely! Drama helps children practise using their voice, body language and facial expressions to communicate. They learn to think on their feet, listen to others and share ideas in front of a group. All of that can make school presentations and everyday conversations feel much easier.
What age should children begin singing or voice lessons?
At APA, children can begin private voice lessons at age five. This gives the teacher the flexibility to meet them at their individual age, attention span and ability level. Group voice classes begin at age eight, when children are generally ready to learn alongside others while developing healthy vocal habits, pitch, rhythm, breathing and performance skills.
My child loves singing but doesn't think they're a “good singer.” Can singing lessons actually help?
Absolutely! Singing is a skill that can be learned and strengthened. Lessons can help with pitch, breathing, vocal strength, musicality and confidence. A great teacher will also help your child discover their own voice instead of feeling like they need to sound like someone else.
What is musical theatre, and what kind of child tends to enjoy it?
Musical theatre combines acting, singing and movement to tell a story. It is a great fit for children who love music, characters, imaginative play or putting on a show. They do not need to be equally confident in all three areas before they start. That is often where they discover a brand-new strength!
How can performing arts help children develop friendships and a sense of belonging?
Performing arts gives children something to work toward together. They learn, rehearse, solve problems and celebrate successes as a group. Those shared experiences can create really meaningful friendships and help children feel like they are part of something.
How do dance and performing arts classes help children develop independence, discipline and resilience?
Children learn to arrive prepared, care for their belongings, remember material and take more responsibility for their own progress. They also learn that mistakes and corrections are a normal part of getting better. Every time they work through something difficult and try again, they build resilience that carries far beyond the classroom.
My child gets nervous before performing. Is stage fright normal, and how can parents help?
So normal! Even experienced performers get nervous. Parents can help by acknowledging the feeling without making it feel scary: “Of course you feel nervous. This matters to you!” Focus on their preparation, courage and enjoyment instead of whether everything goes perfectly. The goal is not always to get rid of the nerves, but to help them learn that they can do hard things while feeling nervous.
What changes do you commonly see in a child after their first year of performing arts classes?
We often see children become more independent, more comfortable speaking up and more willing to try something difficult. They build friendships, learn how to receive feedback and begin to understand that progress takes practice. Of course their performance skills grow too, but the changes in who they are becoming are often the most exciting part.
What advice would you give a parent whose child wants to try performing arts but is nervous about their first class?
Remind them that they can be nervous and ready at the same time. Tell them a little about what to expect, arrive early enough that they do not feel rushed and let the teacher help welcome them into the room. They do not need to be amazing or make a best friend on day one. Their only job is to walk in and give it a try.
Answers from Miss Tia:
What age is best for my child to start dance classes?
At APA, your child can start dancing as young as 1 year old! We offer classes for all ages and abilities, so there is no "right" age to start. Everyone's journey is different, and it truly depends on your child's goals and preferences.
My child is shy. Can dance, drama or singing classes help build their confidence?
Absolutely! Dance has provided me with so many experiences to gain confidence such as dance exams, masterclasses, and performing on stage! It allowed me to make lifelong friendships and feel more confident in myself as an individual and as a teammate.
How do I choose between dance, drama, music and singing for my child?
Talk to your child about what they are interested in, and what their goals are! You can also sign up for a free trial to see which class feels the best to them!
My child has never taken a performing arts class before. Is it ever too late to start?
It is never too late to start! We offer academy programming for all ages, and all levels.
What should parents look for when choosing a dance or performing arts school for their child?
At APA we believe in a family first approach. We understand that connecting with our parents is just as important as connecting with their child. You should look for a studio that offers a strong sense of community, and age appropriate choices for your child - from music to costuming.
What type of dance class is best for a beginner: ballet, jazz, hip hop, tap, lyrical or something else?
It truly depends on your interests and what your goals are! If you are interested in a more upbeat class I would try jazz or hip hop. If you are interested in a slower paced class I would try ballet. If you love all things rhythm, try a tap class!
Does my child need to take ballet if they want to become a strong dancer?
While ballet is not mandatory, I strongly recommend it because it helps build strength and technique to supplement the other classes your child is taking!
What are the biggest benefits of performing arts classes outside of learning to dance, act or sing?
Performing arts classes allow students to develop a sense of responsibility and teamwork, while building strong relationships inside of the classroom. My experience dancing taught me time management, self advocacy, how to work as an individual and as a group, and gave me tons of self confidence!
What is musical theatre, and what kind of child tends to enjoy it?
Musical theatre is a mix of dance, drama, and singing. It focuses on developing a strong character while performing, and building stamina through singing and dancing simultaneously. If your child wants to dance and act, this is the perfect class for them! Musical theatre is not as energetic as other dance classes such as jazz or hip hop, so if that's what you're looking for I would recommend signing up for a trial class!
How can performing arts help children develop friendships and a sense of belonging?
Performing arts brings together children who have similar interests. Because of the group nature of the classes, kids will find themselves working in pairs and groups often, which eventually leads to developing strong friendships! Here at APA, we feel strongly about creating a place where kids feel like they belong, and I have developed life long friendships through my time at the studio.
My child gets nervous before performing. Is stage fright normal, and how can parents help?
Stage fright is absolutely a normal experience for a child to have! Parents can help by telling their performer what area of the audience they will be in (even if the performer can't see them!) and by reassuring them that they feel confident in their performer. Teachers backstage will be able to talk to the performer to explain the process of going onstage. At the end of the day, it is a team effort between teachers and parents to set their performers up for success!
Answers from Miss Andie:
What age is best for my child to start dance classes?
The best thing about Dance Classes is that you can attend them throughout your whole life! I have taught students ranging from age 1 to age 85! Dance is a gift that you can give your child that will bring them joy for the rest of their days.
My child loves dancing at home. How do I know if they're ready for dance lessons?
The best part about Dance class is there is no such thing as "ready". Whether your child is trying dance as their first organized activity, or they're an experienced classroom participant there is a class that can cater to your child's needs. In Dance class we learn technical skills, but we also learn professionalism, standing still and listening, taking turns, and showing respect for our peers and our classrooms. You will never know if your child is "ready" BUT if you give them a chance to shine they will surpass all of your expectations.
My child is shy. Can dance, drama or singing classes help build their confidence?
YES! Aboslutely! You will see a gradual growth in your child from their very first class through to performing on stage at the end of the year. In my experience the students who came to class on the first day, cried the entire time, and whose feet didn't touch the floor because they were in my arms the whole time often have the biggest smiles during their year end performance.
How do I choose between dance, drama, music and singing for my child?
Your child will be excited to come to class, and will have more buy in if they are a part of the decision. Let them try all three options, and listen to their voice. Which did they like best?
My child has never taken a performing arts class before. Is it ever too late to start?
The performing arts are for everybody! There it's never too late to start. for your child - from music to costuming.
What should parents look for when choosing a dance or performing arts school for their child?
Parents should look for a school that matches their values, and their goals for their child. Ask yourself: What do you want your child to get out of the program? Friendship, Technical Skill, exam results, positive role models, or friends? When you're trying to find the right studio fit for you, see if they match your goals and values.
Can drama classes help children with public speaking and communication skills?
YES! Picture this: It's the end of the year, and your child is on stage in front of an audience of 300 people. They're speaking their lines confidently, and without pause and they come offstage feeling proud of themselves. Drama classes will help your child develop their interpersonal skills, sportsmanship, teamwork, communication skills, and more! Think about how easily your child will be able to complete a school presentation or a job interview as a result of the skills they gain from this program? To me it's a no brainer!
What age should children begin singing or voice lessons?
Children are ready to begin singing lessons when they can read without help from an adult 🙂 It's hard to learn the word to a song if you can't read them yourself!
My child loves singing but doesn't think they're a "good singer." Can singing lessons actually help?
What did your child's penmanship look like in Kindergarten? How about Grade 1? Grade 2? Just like penmanship is a skill that can be improved so is singing! With the right tools, tips, and guidance over the years you will see your child's skills improve just like their penmanship.
Answers from Miss Kendal
What age is best for my child to start dance classes?
Any age; there is a spot for everyone, ages 2-18!
My child loves dancing at home. How do I know if they're ready for dance lessons?
Bring them for a free trial class!
My child is shy. Can dance, drama or singing classes help build their confidence?
Yes!! I have seen so many of my students grow so much in confidence throughout the season.
How do I choose between dance, drama, music and singing for my child?
Bring them for a free trial class!
My child has never taken a performing arts class before. Is it ever too late to start?
It is never too late to start, there is a spot for everyone.
What should parents look for when choosing a dance or performing arts school for their child?
Values. Choosing a performing arts school means trusting us with your child, so it’s important to find a studio whose values and culture align with your family. Look for a place where your child feels supported, encouraged, and inspired to grow both as a dancer and as a person.
What type of dance class is best for a beginner: ballet, jazz, hip hop, tap, lyrical or something else?
We have beginner classes for Jazz, Ballet, Tap, Acro, and Hip Hop. All are a great start!
Does my child need to take ballet if they want to become a strong dancer?
Yes! Ballet builds the strong foundation every dancer needs, covering technique, strength, balance, flexibility, body awareness and control. No matter what style your child loves, ballet will help them become a stronger, more versatile dancer.
What is the difference between recreational and competitive dance, and how do I know which is right for my child?
At APA, we offer two different programs. Our Academy program consists of age-based classes where students develop a love for dance while learning skills and strong foundations. Our Accelerated program focuses more on syllabus, technique, and exam preparation. These classes are faster-paced and have higher expectations for training and learning in class. The right program depends on your child's goals!
How do I know when my child is ready to add another dance or performing arts class?
Adding a second class is a great way to build on the skills your child is already learning. When students participate in more than one class, they begin to make connections between styles, build stronger relationships with friends and teachers, and develop skills that can benefit them both inside and outside the classroom.
What are the biggest benefits of performing arts classes outside of learning to dance, act or sing?
Confidence, connection, and life skills. Performing arts help children build confidence, communication, teamwork, discipline, creativity, and resilience. They learn how to work with others, step outside their comfort zone, and celebrate their own growth and skills that benefit them far beyond the studio. We don't teach the arts to make great performers; we teach the arts to make great kids.
Your Child's Journey Starts With a Question
Sometimes finding the right activity for your child starts with simply asking a question. We hope the advice from our APA teachers has helped you feel a little more confident about taking that next step.
At Ambition Performing Arts, we know that every child is different. Some walk through our doors bursting with excitement, while others need a little time to feel comfortable. Some discover a love of dance, while others find their place through drama, music, singing, or a combination of programs. There is no single path, and that’s what makes each student’s journey so special.
If you’re ready to explore what performing arts could look like for your child, we’d love to welcome you to the APA family. Come see our studio, meet our team, ask your questions, and let your child discover where their own journey might take them.