How to Encourage Your Child Through a ‘Wobbly’ Dance Week

Because not every class feels like a standing ovation — and that’s okay.

Even the most enthusiastic dancers have “off” weeks. The ones where the steps feel extra tricky, confidence takes a dip, and enthusiasm gets replaced with frustration, hesitation… or even tears in the car.

These wobbly weeks are normal. They’re part of the process. And with a bit of gentle encouragement, young dancers often come through them stronger, more resilient, and even more proud of themselves.

Here’s how you can support your child when dance class feels a little bit harder than usual.

1. Remind Them It’s Okay to Find Things Hard

Dance looks effortless — but that’s because there’s so much work behind the scenes. Some weeks, routines challenge them more. Growth isn’t always comfortable, and that’s where confidence really gets built.

Reassure them that wobbles are welcome. Every dancer (even the teacher!) has struggled with steps before. Most students will be encouraged to watch themselves in the mirror so they can see what they’re doing—not to criticise, but to understand and improve. That kind of self-awareness can feel tough at first, but it’s a vital part of learning and progress.

Let them know: it’s okay not to feel perfect. What matters is showing up, trying again, and knowing that it’s all part of getting better.

2. Celebrate Effort, Not Just Outcome

Rather than focusing on whether they “got it right,” try praising the courage to keep going.

• “I saw how you kept trying that turn — that takes grit.”

• “You didn’t give up, and that’s something to be proud of.”

When we shift the focus from perfection to progress, we help children understand that the learning journey is just as valuable as the end result.

3. Let Them Talk (or Not Talk at All)

Sometimes they’ll want to tell you everything that felt difficult. Other times, they’ll want to sit in silence or change the subject. Both are okay.

Offering space without pressure gives them room to process things in their own time. A gentle “I’m proud of how hard you’re working” is often enough.

4. Share Stories from Their Progress So Far

Remind them how far they’ve come — even if it feels like a small step forward.

• “Remember when you found that move hard at the start of term, and now it’s easy?”

• “You were so nervous before your first class — look at you now!”

Sometimes children forget how much they’ve already achieved. A quick reflection helps them see the bigger picture.

5. Keep Showing Up

It can be tempting to skip class when they’ve had a rough week — but turning up (even if they’re not 100% enthusiastic) helps rebuild confidence.

Being in a familiar, encouraging environment, surrounded by their peers and teacher, can shift the mood. Dance class often ends on a high, even if it starts with doubts.

6. Let Them Know It’s Not Just Them

It’s easy for a child to feel like they’re the only one who’s struggling. But every dancer — no matter how advanced — hits walls.

Sometimes hearing that others have found it tough too makes all the difference. At Just Dance, we encourage a culture of kindness, support, and team spirit, so no one feels alone in their wobble.

The Wobble Is Temporary. The Growth Is Not.

A tough week doesn’t mean they’re failing. It means they’re stretching their limits, learning, and growing into the kind of dancer who keeps going — even when things don’t come easily.

And that? That’s a lesson they’ll carry far beyond the studio.

Need a Space That Supports the Journey, Not Just the Perfect Performance?

At Just Dance, we believe in nurturing progress, patience, and self-belief. Every dancer has their wobbly weeks, and we’re here to help them move through it — one supportive step at a time.