CCDS FAQ

General Questions

What is the age range of dancers at the Chris Collins Dance Studio?

While the majority of our students are elementary and high school students, we truly do have dancers of all ages and skill levels at our studio, with classes specially suited for each age.

Our youngest dancers can begin as early as 2-1/2 years of age (they should be 3 by January of the dance year). These children need to be potty trained, and they need to be comfortable with being away from their mother for the duration of the class.

Our adult dancers include a number of CCDS alumni, and also many older dancers, including first-time dancers, lots of parents of student dancers, and even some senior citizens. All of these students need to be comfortable with being away from their mommies for the duration of class too.

What can I expect my three-year-old to learn?

Your little dancer will work on locomotor skills, pre-ballet, creative movement and social interaction. Sometimes young children may enjoy the rhythms of music at home, but it takes time for some of them to be ready for organized group activity. At this age it varies a lot from child to child when they are ready. In class, the teacher will encourage them to join in and have fun and help them become a part of the class.

Do boys dance?

Boys and girls alike can benefit from better coordination. Many coaches have even noticed the difference of students who dance and play sports. Although there are too few male dancers, the ones who come to our studio are here because they love it. Several of them are among our top award-winning performers. Many popular singing groups have dance training. Dance training is valuable for coordination, rhythm, and confidence.

Where do I find dance shoes for my child? Do you sell them at your studio?

We recommend that all our beginner students purchase their dance supplies at our studio, so they have the same type of shoes as required for their respective classes. If they are hard to fit or are members of our dance troupe, we will personally recommend the best place to find the proper shoe. Always talk to a teacher before purchasing shoes outside the studio.

Do you have a dance "team" that takes part in competitions?

Yes, we have a performing Dance Company. Participation in the Dance Company occurs by invitation, with the teaching faculty determining annually those students who exhibit the dedication, attitude and proficiency to represent the studio in public performances and competitions.

In addition to attending classes several nights per week, Company members perform in shows and exhibitions around the Washington, DC area and as far away as Walt Disney World and Universal Studios in Orlando, FL. They also regularly attend dance workshops and competitions around the region, having traveled in recent years to Virginia Beach and Portsmouth in Virginia; College Park and Columbia in MD; and New York, City.

When do classes begin?

All our classes run September thru June like the school year. While we do accept students later in the year, it is to the student's benefit to start at the beginning of the session. Of course students with some dance experience will naturally adapt faster to joining a class part way through the year. (When in doubt, please stop by or call us.) We also offer a separate summer workshop.

How do I know if my child is progressing well in class?

We have parent observation days in the fall, winter and spring. As far as your child's advancement - the individual teacher is the one who can best judge that in relation to the rest of the class. If you have concerns, we recommend that you schedule a time to meet with the teacher.