When starting a Children’s Dance Ministry, there are a few important things to keep in mind.

1. Make sure you are consistent. Never under-estimate the power of just being there. Your constant presence makes them feel secure, they begin to trust you, and will more readily follow direction. So before you even start a rehearsal, work out your time schedule.

2. Make sure the parents know rehearsal dates and times, and are on board to bring and pick up their children in a timely manner. I learned this the hard way. Prepare yourself for a few road bumps at the beginning. Just as the children’s trust will be built over time, so will their parents.

3. Have telephone numbers in case you need to contact a parent for any reason.

4. Schedule out your first session. Having a flexible agenda in mind will help you stay on track and help you fell more in control when you are faced with a group of little excited often loud dancers.

5. Instead of jumping into choreography, have a fun movement moment prepared. Some little dancers are a bit shy or self conscious at first. Getting them jumping, laughing, giggling, both helps them to relax, and creates a sense of community, if they do not already know each other. I always begin my new dance rehearsals with silly walks across the floor. We walk straight, over bubbles, in sand, on clouds, carrying balls. Then we stretch, and do a few turns. It will also help you to identify your most exuberant dancers.

6. Introduce more complex movements as across the floor exercises, especially turns. By now, they associate across the floor with fun, and have confidence in their ability to maneuver the steps. It is also easier to correct movements individually without drawing too much attention to one child.

7. Finally, choose songs of joy. Choose songs appropriate for the age of your group, songs the children can not only understand, but can relate to. Choose songs that glorify God, and teach the children how to give thanks to Him in dance.