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It’s the start of a new year, and always a time to set some goals and think ahead. And, as a busy studio owner, wouldn’t it be a dream to find ways to make your life easier and for things to run more smoothly? Let us help you get the best out of 2025. Read on for some of our top tips!
#1. Fuel your body well.
We always function better when our body is fed well. Make it a point to include more fresh fruits and vegetables in your diet, and be sure to start your day with some protein. Maybe some broccoli, too! (Hey, don’t knock it ‘til you try it!) Keep healthy snacks on hand in your desk drawer, like these delicious Get Golden bars with real ingredients and created by New York City Ballet ballerina Jenelle Manzi.
Check out our article on 5 key nutrients for 2025. These simple nutrients can really make a difference in your mood and health.
And don’t skimp on the water! Read more here about the benefits of staying hydrated, including injury prevention and healing, proper digestion, maintaining a healthy weight, and increased energy. Buy a new fun, colorful water bottle and take it everywhere you go. And find what works for you – kombucha, herbal teas, protein drinks and sparkling water can all be hydrating, too. Learn more in one of our articles here.
#2. Don’t expect perfection. Just do your best.
Some days will be tough, some kids may drop out to play soccer instead, some parents may be a bit nagging. It’s all part of the game, and it is no reflection on your dedication and expertise. You can’t make everyone happy. Just do your best, and realize that you are making a ton of other people happy!
“Don’t over plan or expect perfection,” advises Steve Sirico, founder of Dance Teacher Web. “Just get started! I love the saying, ‘If you wait for all the lights to turn green, you will never leave your driveway.’ My #1 new year goal is to find out what new teaching tool, technology or philosophy can I implement.”
#3. Consider a uniform for your studio’s dancers.
Maybe it is time to look into having a uniform at your studio. When dance students wear a uniform, it brings a sense of unity and community within the studio. It has also been proven to improve dancers’ focus, discipline and confidence. The dancers put on their assigned dancewear and understand they are going into a structured class (instead of unstructured playtime).
And for parents, a uniform brings a sigh of relief when they don’t have to buy multiple dance outfits of various colors and types each season, or face a tantrum from their child when the “rainbow mermaid leotard” is in the dirty laundry pile!
And for the studio in general, it brings a beautiful aura of professionalism. Not sure where to get started with a brand that carries enough colors and styles for many levels of uniforms? Look no further than Just Dancewhich has a huge range of gorgeous colors of leotards and matching skirts and shorts. You can choose different colors for different levels, and then once dancers progress to a new level, they get to have the new color and feel extremely accomplished for moving up.
#4. Check out just dancing plus!
Speaking of uniforms… You may think that’s a great idea but have no clue how to introduce that in your studio. Luckily, Só Dança has just launched Just Dance Plus (Só Dança+), which connects your dance studio/families, your local dance store, and Só Dança’s accessible and high quality products. They create custom web pages just for your studio, and families can order and items are shipped to the studio or directly to the families so they are ready for class.
Easy, right? And it’s a no-cost service that offers exclusive discounts on your student’s uniforms. It’s an easier way for studios to help students get their uniforms and the correct gear – and get a kick back! – all while also supporting the local dancewear store.
“Só Dança+ is more than a program,” says Helena Hines, COO of Só Dança USA. “It’s a partnership designed to streamline uniform ordering through our intuitive website, dedicated customer support and the convenience of the SD+ app. Together, these tools ensure a seamless experience while creating stronger connections between studios, families and their local dance communities.”
Set-up for Só Dança+ is easy and can be completed in as little as one day. To get started, head to weknowdance.com/pages/studio-sign-up.
#5. Never stop learning. Head to a Dance Teacher event this year!
“This year, just like every year, it is vital to stay current and inspired so that you can stay at the top of your game,” suggests Sirico. “Continuing education is the key for any business owner or teacher. The good news is in today’s world, you can do it both online or at live events. Remember, you give all of the time, so it is important that you find time for yourself.”
For amazing resources, all-star faculty and valuable seminars, check out the Dance Teacher Web Conference & Expohappening July 21-25, in Las Vegas. “Every year, we plan with the thought of what is needed in the dance educator community. And the options are limitless. Our event is built by dance teachers and studio owners, so we know firsthand what you go through each and every day. At the DTW Conference, we will educate and at the same time celebrate all that you do!”
And guess what’s back this August? Dance Teacher Summitan amazing place for teachers and studio owners to learn from business pros, experience work by legendary choreographers and educators, and more…all in an amazing dance hub of the world – New York City.
These events can help you re-engage, connect with others and learn new techniques. So commit to going to one this year, and collect all the tools you can.
#6. Set a good example.
Your role as studio owner has a trickle-down effect – you are in the position to be a role model for your teachers, and they, in turn, serve as leaders and mentors for your studio’s students. Set a good example from the top. Work with your teachers to set a code of conduct to ensure your studio is a safe space for children. When planning your upcoming recital, encourage and enforce having no oversexualization of choreography, music and costumes. Read more about the dangers of that in our Dance Informa UK article.
#7. Treat yourself to some new dance gear.
Yes, you deserve new dancewear, too, to help you feel more confident heading into the new year and heading into recital season. As a teacher who’s on your feet all day and demonstrating constantly, treat your feet well and stock up on shoes like the Sonnet Sneaker or Jolie Adult Teaching Dance Sandalboth by Só Dança, for teaching. Your feet and bones will thank you.
We love this flattering Camille Curvy Wrap Skirt that never goes out of style. And you should get a fun leotard, too, not just your students! New York City Ballet Principal Tiler Peck has a stunning collection of leotards. Just look at the vibrant color of the Tills leoor the contemporary-meets-classy Karin leotard. Everyone needs a staple warm-up jacket like this Hai jacket – it’s great for on-the-go and those long, cold days in the theater. We also love the Be You® Marlee Cardigan for teachers – it’s sophisticated, cozy and versatile.
#8. Remember why you do what you do.
At the end of the day, you’ve got to remind yourself that you are truly amazing. You have created a dance family and a safe space for young dancers to learn and thrive. So remember what called you to be a studio owner in the first place, and how you did it, and hang on to that gratitude.
“Your mindset is the most important part in your journey,” Sirico says. “Stay positive, stay inspired, and don’t let anyone or anything steal your joy for what you do. Keep in mind that you are shaping the lives of young people everywhere. Please know that you do make a difference!”
By Laura Di Orio of Dance Informa.
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