Your child just saw a performance that just makes them declare "I want to be a dancer when I grow up!" And the parent wanting their child to experience as much as possible decides that some ballet training would certainly create grace and confidence.  But how does one go about finding a teacher to fill those needs?  Certainly the more knowledge and research on your part will allow you to make a placement that will prevent mistakes, not only financially but physically as well. 

1. Choices for very young children are somewhat different, in that demands made on their bodies should be limited; whereas at eight years of age the child's bones are developed enough to begin classical training.  Your child is the most precious gift you have so be willing to provide the best training available.  Sometimes it will demand travel, but it will be worth the sacrifice.  Whether or not your child pursues a career in dance should not be a concern at this point and should not minimize the importance of finding a fine teacher.  Remember, that this will be a substantial investment so keep your standard high.  If, in the end they are one of the chosen few they will be prepared.  If not, you can rest assured that they will go forward with a disciplined ease and confidence, plus a true love for the arts.  What greater gift could you give?

2. You should always sit in on a class that is in their level and one that is considered upper level.  You should know what your child is looking at now and in the coming years, plus it will show the quality of training being taught in the school.  How are the dancers dressed?  Tights, leotards and hair in a bun with well fitted shoes. This attire allows a teacher to observe the lines of the body making awareness of corrections easier, allows freedom of movement for dancers while keeping muscles warm while working and last but not least it will be an indicator of the schools standard.
Some hints to look for when viewing an upper level class. 
If you are viewing an intermediate to advanced ballet class and don't know anything about dance take a friend that has had classical training.  Remember the dancers should be close to looking like the dancers you see in the professional world.  If the dancers cannot dance in centre on Pointe with enough strength to do full combinations, the technique will not be there and the dancers will struggle to reach a safe dance career without injury.  Be careful of a teacher that places a dancer on Pointe before the age of 12.  There are three major medical reasons for this: There bone growth is not developed, they can get stress fractures, shin splints and it can cause a bad back. more information from "The Pointe Shoe Book"

3.  If the class is well disciplined the teacher wil maintain an order that is unmistakable.  Look for a teacher that is firm, but fair.  Every teacher may blow their cool at one time or another.  That in itself is not harmful if it there is an eventual closer and reassurance, but beware of a teacher that commonly screams insults, or berates a child in front of other students, and never apologizes.  There's a lot of difference between students who work hard for a teacher out or respect rather than fear.  Good teachers always have their eye on the students at all times.  Demonstrations maybe done while students watch; but watch out for a teacher who is in love with themselves and the mirror.

4. Always take advantage of a trial class.  Go in the class and let your child interact with the teacher and fellow students before you just sign them up.  Do not invest in something that is going to be a battle to get your child to attend each week.  Always remember that enrollment doesn't mean a lifetime commitment.  After all, it is your child and your money so if the progress isn't what you expect or if a personality conflict is making the dance experience less than invigorating by all means continue your search.  If you are thinking, "I can't  do this, it's to time consuming and complicated," you may need to consider whether you as parents, are willing to make the commitment that dance training requires.  It does take support of both parents to attain an optimal goal for your child.

5. It is much harder for boys to gain parental acceptance and support in dance training, but they are an integral part of it's over all success.  Unfortunately here in the western states there is often a stigma attached that shouldn't be, and the benefits will be gratifying for boys and girls.  Ballet is a vigorous sport as anything known to man.  Just because it is done in the confines of a room with mirrors, barres, music, and tights does not diminish its value or body development.  It is not a sport for weaklings, as any knowledgeable person will tell you.  In fact, in most sports today ballet classes are highly recommended at High Schools and Universities.   Remember there are more opportunities in Dance at any University of their choice then there is any other sport.

6.  Classical Ballet classes not only make good dancers but it also will make good; cheerleaders, gymnasts, ballroom dancers, sports players and person who is well rounded and has a creative mind to help them as they go into life. 

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