There's a moment that every new dance mum seems to experience, it goes something like this - You're standing in the middle of a loud, overwhelmingly busy studio foyer, surrounded by other parents who seem to know exactly what they are doing, they have it all figured out — the right bag, the right hair, the right tights, the right everything — and you're quietly freaking out trying to work out how on earth they got the memo and you didn't.
I've been there. And after years on the sidelines, I've learned a lot. So consider this the info that I wish someone had told me on that very first enrolment day.
1. You Don't Need to Buy Everything at Once
The dance supply list can feel overwhelming, especially when you're not sure if your child will stick with it or whether next week they will declare that they want to play soccer or netball instead. Start simple — for the first few classes at least, your dancer doesn't need to be fitted out with the entire studio uniform (even if they insist they do). Just make sure your child is dressed in clothes that they can move in. After that, If it's a ballet class for example, purchase a well-fitting leotard, a pair of tights or dance socks, and the correct ballet shoes, after speaking with their teacher. That's it. Everything else can wait until you know what they actually need.
Pro tip: Pre-loved dance shoes are a brilliant way to test the waters without spending a fortune.
2. Fit Matters More Than Brand
A beautifully branded leotard that gaps, rides up, or restricts movement is going to make your child uncomfortable — and distracted. A well-fitted, no-name leotard will serve them far better in class.
When shopping, focus on stretch, coverage, and how the garment moves with the body. Also it's always best to check with your child's teacher prior to purchasing as there may be a requirement for a particular leotard, colour or style for class.
3. Tights Are a Consumable — Budget Accordingly
If you haven't yet experienced the heartbreak of brand-new tights laddering before the first class is over, just wait. While I consider myself a lucky dance mum (my girls went easy on their tights), tights are essentially a consumable item in the dance world. Buy a few pairs at a time, where you can, (and hide the additional ones from them until needed) and try not to stress when they snag, ladder or get holes, especially when it comes to wearing fishnets with sequined costumes! — it happens to everyone!
4. The Dance Bag Is Sacred
Your child's dance bag will become an essential item. Get a dedicated bag early and teach your child to pack it themselves (age-appropriately, of course). A checklist on the fridge helps — shoes, spare tights, brush, hair ties, water bottle, snack. You'll be amazed how quickly they take ownership when it's their responsibility.
5. Every Studio Has Its Own Culture
Some studios are relaxed and community-focused. Others are high-performance and competition-driven. Neither is wrong, or better, but it's worth understanding the culture of your studio early so you can set the right expectations for yourself and your child. This will also help you determine if your current studio is the correct one for you and your child moving forward, or whether you should perhaps consider trialing at others.
Don't be afraid to ask questions. Most dance teachers genuinely love a curious, engaged parent. But remember to seek out the teacher at the right time, perhaps not just before they are set to teach their next class. Set up a time for a one on one chat.
Pro tip: The beautiful people at reception usually know everything, so ask them and if they don't know the answer they can usually find out for you pretty quickly.
6. Find Your People
The dance mum community is one of the most generous, resourceful groups you'll ever be part of. The mum who's been doing this for five years? - She knows exactly what colour tights to purchase, which brand of shoes run small, and exactly what to pack for competition day. Introduce yourself. Ask questions. Share what you learn with other new dance mums.
That's exactly why I started this blog — because the best advice I received came from other dance mums, those who'd already been through the journey that I had just embarked on.
7. It Goes Faster Than You Think
The concerts, the rehearsals, the eisteddfods, the early Saturday morning classes — it can all feel relentless when you're in the thick of it. But ask any dance mum whose child has grown up, and moved on, just like I have now and she'll tell you the same thing- it goes so fast and it can be one of the happiest times of your life. I really do miss those days now and look back on most of the memories with great fondness.
My advice? Soak it up. Even the chaotic, crazy bits.
Ready to Get Started?
If you're just beginning your dance mum journey and need help figuring out what to buy first, browse our dancewear or explore our pre-loved shoe range for quality pieces at a fraction of the price. Need any help? — just contact me. I'm always up for a chat and I love to help new dance mums.
And if you've got a tip of your own — something you wish you'd known in year one — drop it in the comments. This community is better when we share.
Written by Julie-Anne | Active Style Dancewear