I have a competition dancer who injured her knee and required six weeks of physical therapy. I have already pulled her from our first competition in March. This past week she had a checkup after her physical therapy ended. I asked her what the doctor said and she said that she could compete with a small brace. I told her that in order for her to compete in the next competition, I would require a note from the doctor stating that she is allowed to compete. Her mother insisted that they are done seeing that doctor and won't be returning since her physical therapy is over and didn't think she could get a note. She acted like it was unfair that I was asking for one. I don't think I'm in the wrong. Any advice?

I would think that the mom could call the doctor's office and ask for a note for the daughters dance studio.
And I think you're right in asking for a doctors note to assure you that she is healthy enough to cause no damage to the knee.

It's not that difficult to get a doctor's note. I've had to do it for work. She should just call the office and have them fax or email it over. It's part of their job.

Yes, you are right that getting a doctors note is reasonable. She should be able to call the doctor and say "Her instructor is asking for a note from your office, saying that KC is able to safely dance X hours per week, as required for her competition team, can you fax/e-mail/mail one to us?"

You're right: stand your ground. It's not just an ethical issue of keeping your students safe from future injury, but it can be a legal issue if she gets hurt and the parent turns around and wants to sue you for re-injuring her kid.

He can fax you a note, or they can pick one up. They do not need another visit to do that but I would require it, just the same. Tel mom, "It's policy that I cannot let her dance without a written note from the dr. You can just call him to send or fax one."

I think it's ludicrous that you appear more concerned for her daughters safety than she does.
A Dr note is not a hassle. She just has to calll the office of the Dr who cleared her and ask them to fax a letter stating that she is cleared to return to all activities.
Shouldn't they have gotten/needed one for phys Ed classes at school as well?

Just remember, you call no one, it's up to her, and do not give in. I agree with above, you are more concerned than her. It sounds like Dance Moms.

I just read the latest "Ask Rhee" column in the Dance Studio Life magazine. The writer was asking for advice concerning a previously injured student and a now pending lawsuit. The situation is different than the OP's, but it does serve as a lesson to protect ourselves.

I agree with the others, require the note. Most doctor's offices will provide them without a visit or extra charge.

You most certainly should require a doctor's note in order for her to participate in your class. I don't think that the mother realizes the danger that her daughter's injury poses to her well being. And furthermore, you should get one, not only because you truly care about this student, but to avoid any legal ramifications should this child be injured in your class.

I don't know why some parents make it so hard for some of us. At the end of the day, we care about their children's health, well being, and safety, just like they do.

Stand your ground. Get that note. It could turn into a liability issue. She can call the office and have them fax one in. No need to make another appointment. If it were a rec team, I MIGHT let her slide (although I've been known to request dr's notes even for my rec dancers) but for competition team, she's going to be working those muscles more than the average Joe.