For parents of dancers, competition season can be a whirlwind of emotions and busy schedules. With costumes, makeup and rehearsals to worry about, it’s easy to get overwhelmed. That’s why preparation is key! Here are five tips for making sure your competition weekend goes as smoothly as possible.
Double Check Your Costume Checklist – You don’t want to get to the competition venue and realize you forgot something! Make sure you have everything packed in advance and double check the day before you leave. This includes shoes, jewelry, tights, accessories—everything!
Eat Nutritious Meals– It’s important to start the day off right with a healthy breakfast full of protein and carbohydrates. Eggs, oatmeal, toast and yogurt are great choices! A balanced diet will give your dancer the energy he or she needs to make it through an entire day of competing or rehearsing. Be sure to also pack healthy snacks too! Items like fruits, cheeses, nuts and crackers are perfect for quick bites between performances.
Pack an Emergency Kit – This should include first aid supplies, a sewing kit and extra hair/makeup items like bobby pins, hairspray and lip gloss/balm. Having these items on hand will help you take care of any last minute emergencies without having to run out to the store at the last minute.
Bring Your Own Power Supply – Many times venues don’t provide enough outlets for everyone’s hair straighteners or curling irons so pack your own power strip. This will help just in case there are not enough outlets to go around! It’s also a great idea to bring a power bank to keep cell phones fully charged. Between texting, checking competition schedules and capturing photo memories, battery power drains fast!
Stay Calm & Enjoy The Moment – Finally, remember that competitions are supposed to be fun! Take time during the weekend (both on stage and off) to enjoy all the moments that make dance special—the friendships made, the memories created and all the hard work come together in one big show!
As the countdown to competition weekend approaches, take some time to prepare yourself and your family by following these five tips. Double checking costume lists, packing up nutritious snacks and meals, hydrating with plenty of water, and cherishing every moment that comes with being a competitive dancer and dance parent, you will be one step closer to having an enjoyable weekend at the competition.
All of us here at APA wish you the best of luck on this competition journey. So come prepared and let’s get ready for an amazing weekend! Good Luck to our Competitive Teams at Dupree Dance Competition and Convention!
