The Parents' Code of Behaviour
The Parents' Code of Behaviour is reproduced from Safe Dance II by Tony Geeves, published by Ausdance in 1997. It is reprinted with the permission of the author.
In the area of vocational dance where the student is often a high achiever, perceived pressure to please parenting figures can add to the stress, both positive and negative, of daily living and growing.
The following suggestion for a code of behaviour for parents is intended to support them in their efforts to reassure their offspring that dance is for the child's own enjoyment and that they are loved for themselves rather than for their achievements.
- If children are interested, encourage them to dance. However, if children are not willing to dance, do not force them.
- Encourage dance students to see live professional performances as often as possible.
- Focus upon the child's efforts and performance rather than the overall outcome of the examination, performance or audition. This assists children in setting realistic goals related to their ability by reducing the emphasis on winning.
- Teach children that an honest effort is as important as a victory, so that the results of each examination or performance are accepted without undue disappointment.
- Encourage children to always participate according to the rules.
- Never ridicule or yell at a child for making a mistake or not passing an examination.
- Remember, children are involved in dance for their enjoyment, not yours.
- Remember, children learn best from example. Applaud good performances by all of the performers.
- If you disagree with an examiner, adjudicator or critic, raise the issue through the appropriate channels rather than question the official's judgment in public.
Support all efforts to remove verbal and physical abuse from dance activities
View the Industy code of ethics here.