As parents you have the opportunity to be the difference in the type of dancer your dancer becomes.  Stretching.... it is one of those touchy subjects.  Sometimes it might feel like it is nicer for you to just tell your dancer, that it is fine to not be flexible and that some people just are not.  A happy medium of stretch and strength is going to keep your dancer safe.  You can help your dancer help themselves.  Here are some things you could suggest to them.

Dedication - Remember to work at it. But don't over work yourself.

Stretching Log - Everyday write what you've done and how you can improve. Always keep Sunday (and maybe Saturday) for your rest day. You NEED a rest day either once or twice a week!

Motivation & Goals - To keep motivated you can find pictures from magazines and other media. Stick them in the log book. Everyday look at these pictures and visualize yourself doing it.

Time - We think to ourselves and say "I have homework! I haven't any time for stretching!!" but this isn't true. All you need to do is base your stretching around your timetable. Remember that you can stretch while watching TV, doing your homework, etc.

Plan of Action - Draw yourself a PLAN OF ACTION. Tell yourself what to do and tick it off when you complete it. Having a Plan Of Action helps you feel more organized, and it helps too.
 

Last modified: 08/31/09