Unleash Your Potential at KIO Dance Studio

It is important to support your child by being aware of his or her progress, and it is comforting to know exactly what takes place in the classroom. Some studios do not allow parents to observe class at all. This poses a disadvantage to families by considerably reducing the opportunity for parents to see their child’s growth. Additionally, parents pay for the lessons, so they should have the opportunity to see their student. Other studios allow parents in the classroom for each lesson. This classroom traffic can be a distraction to both students and teachers, and, ultimately, reduces the quality of the learning environment. So, how can you watch dance classes and music lessons without disrupting the classroom? Through the use of our unique video observation system, we encourage parents to view their child’s classes. At KIO Dance Studio, one or more cameras are set up in each of our dance studio rooms. These cameras are displayed on two monitors specifically in our lobby waiting areas. Parents are able to observe their child, the instructor, and other classes all from our lobby area without interrupting class progression.

Dance is a very physical activity that requires a lot of jumping, which can put stress on bones and joints. Most dance footwear does not provide any cushioning or support, so the shock of dance movements can place a lot of pressure on the knees and back. The best way to prevent potential injury is by choosing a studio with either a professional hardwood or “floating” floor. A floating floor is a dance floor that rests on a system of high-density foam to absorb the shock of jumping. A high-density foam base is superior to a “sprung” floor, which usually consists of a wood structure built on the regular floor. The top layer of the floating floor is also an important factor. A vinyl composite “marley” floor is accepted worldwide as the ideal surface layer for recreational and professional dance. Dance Companies such as the Royal Winnipeg Ballet and Riverdance – The Touring Show use marley floors as their dance surface. A marley floor is not slippery, but still allows dancers to slide with a degree of “controlled slip.” With this type of floor, there is less risk of slips and falls. Very few studios use professional marley floors because of the expense involved, and usually opt for a regular floor tile or laminate for a studio floor. Our special floors help reduce the risk of injuries and allow students to dance longer without getting tired or risk injury.

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In many studios, the teacher or studio owner conducts classes and does the administration. By trying to do two important jobs at once, the class may suffer as the teacher has to use class time for customer service, or the studio may have no customer assistance available if the teacher is in class. To have a good experience, it is important to choose a studio that can assist you with details like costumes or schedules even when the teachers are occupied in class. KIO Dance Studio has office staff on hand during our office hours every single day of classes, so you can get immediate assistance. We will respond to all inquiries within a 24 hour period.

In this day and age, young people are exposed to explicit lyrics in songs on the radio and suggestive dance moves and costuming on television. Great dancing does not have to be made up of these things. It is important to us at KIO Dance Studio that students receive the optimum professional instruction from worthy role models without exposure to some of today’s improper styles. Our instructors and staff lead professional classes in a fun and caring atmosphere where students leave feeling more confident and educated. Also, our dance costumes are modestly chosen and designed to fit the music and style of dance. And we use edited versions of music and ensuring they are appropriate for the age range of the child.

If most studios seem to have qualified, friendly teachers, experience teaching children, and a big show at the end of the year, aren’t they all pretty much the same? Does it really matter which place you decide to enroll your child?

The answer: Yes! There are five main things that make a huge difference in the quality of instruction your child receives, the amount of extra work and hassles parents face, and the overall enjoyment and satisfaction of being involved in a music or dance program.