Hey y'all! Do you have suggestions for aspiring dance teachers. I'm 16, but have wanted to teach dance forever. Is 16 too young to teach? I already assist and sometimes take over classes when the instructor is ill. However, I want to teach What are your thoughts and/or suggestions?
thanks- PH

Try to find a training to become a teacher. Some colleges offer that, the RAD has a good system, and there is so much more.

Assisting and teaching at your own studio is a way to find out if you like it, and when there is no option for you to study Dance Education (teaching dance is a job, like teaching math is too) you can use this as a base for 'home scholing' yourself with extra studies of anatomy, teaching methodics, psychology, drama, child development, music, dance history, choreography styles, ...
and of course all kinds of dance styles to develop yourself as a dancer, plus specializing in a style to be able to bring your students to an advanced level in it.

An alternative route I want to suggest is to study for Physiotherapist or Primary school teacher. Both are good as a basic to develop yourself as a dance teacher, you learn a lot about moving and children. Plus, a lot of dance teachers need day jobs and you could work as a therapist or a teacher besides teaching dance.

I don't think there is any such thing as too young to teach but I agree that some formal training other than just your dance background is helpful. Check with your studio or in your are to see what certification programs are available to you locally, and think of the teachers and studio owner at your current studio as fountains of information. Ask questions! And remember a great dancer is not always a great teacher!

When I was 16 I knew I wanted to teach too. I was an assistant and would take over classes when the teacher was ill too. What I did to learn about teaching was I assisted with every teacher at the studio in as many styles as I could. I would also volunteer for any summer programs that may have needed help. As a result when I teach now I encompass many different styles and tricks and have experience in many different styles too. I also took many dance classes in college which helped me even more since I was learning from people I've never taken class from before. I also participated in as many conventions as I could afford. I would take it slow before you jump right into it, I am 21 now and it is still hard for me because parents think they can walk all over me.
The more different experiences and teachers you have the better you'll be! Good luck!

I have mixed feelings about whether 16 is too young to teach. I did assisting at that age as well, but it was a lot different than what I had to do as an actual teacher. I started teaching my own classes around 18/19, and even then I still had a hard time from parents. Dance is expensive, and they want to know that there is someone that is qualified and prepared to pass their knowledge on to their children. Some look at it the same as school, would you allow a 16 year old to teach your children? Probably not. That isn't to say you cannot do it, but alot of people might not be to keen on the idea.

I would suggest that you continue assisting for now, and get in as much experience as you can. The more classes you can take, conventions you can attend, workshops you can go to...the better. Start looking in to the teaching requirements in your area, and ask your own teachers and owner for suggestions. They are the best people to help prepare you for the future because they are already there. Good luck.

Honestly, I do think that 16 is too young to teach for several reasons. However, I DO think that 16 is perfect to start thinking about your future and gaining some skills.

I think you are on the right track by assisting. As mentioned previously, this is a great opportunity to really know if this is something that interest you. Plus, you can begin building some skills. I would recommend really paying attention to class and what your teacher is doing and how she is doing it. I would even go as far as to take down some notes of your observations after class. (Boy, I wish I had taken this advice when I was assisting at your age.) Find time to ask your teacher questions about what she does, as there is much to learn. Also, seek her advice on how she got to where she is.

Then as others have mentioned, look into teaching programs. Whether that be in college or through an organization. Each has their benefits and pitfalls, but it's invaluable experience. Take time to study those additional areas mentioned above.

Also, figure out a "plan B". You'll find that most of us have day jobs. It's nice to have something that compliments your teaching, although it's also an opportunity to pursue other interests. Plus, you'll have something that can pay the bills.

Finally, browse older posts here. You are not the first to pose such a question and you're going to find a wealth of information previously posted. Plus, it will help you understand the next series of questions that you should be asking of us!

Good luck!

Great that you are interested in a teaching career.I believe becoming a teacher is a calling. You don't do it to get rich or famous but to be a positive influence in young lives. Now is your time to be a student, learn as much as you can. Study all types of dance, read as much as can about famous teachers, and look to furthering your education in dance and child development. You won't regret the effort!

Thank you all so much. I have taken your suggestions to heart, and they inspire me even more to follow my love of dancing. Please, keep the tips coming and thanks for the ones i've already gotten. I'll keep you posted on years to come!!
-PH