How To Pack For A Dance Competition: Easy Survival Tips
Basic Needs: Grab the obvious stuff first, as these are the things that you are almost certainly to forget as you concentrate on the smaller details. The dance competition basics vary from dance studio to dance studio, but these are the standard needs.
Costumes
Dance Tights (extras of each color needed)
Tap, Ballet, or Jazz Shoes for Dances
Jewelry (only if part of costume)
Advanced: These are generally the pieces that you stress over and still fail to remember. As your child progresses with dance, the list will grow, but this will get you started.
Hair Brush and Comb
Extra Bobby Pins
Extra Hair Nets
Hair Spray
Hair Gel
Extra Elastic Hair Bands
Stage Cosmetics
Mom or Dad Necessities: These are the items that will assist you through the stress filled day. I highly recommend these objects to be included in any dance parent’s strategy.
Coloring Books and Crayons-Wonderful for occupying small dancers between shows
Bandages- Clear works best
Snack food items for you and your child
Water for your child (safe drink when dressed up in costumes)
Wet Wipes-Perfect to fix make-up smears and to clean up little hands after snacks
Sewing Kit for quick costume repairs
Safety Pins for even quicker costume fixes
Oversized Shirt for little children-Dressing rooms are crowded and sometimes it is much easier to change little dancers under an oversized T-Shirt.
Nail Clippers
Camera-most competitions have guidelines about photography, but you’ll want a few shots backstage.
Try to organize these things into separate bags; doing this will keep you from having to rumage through so many items to locate what you need. Consider using one bag for hair and cosmetic items, another bag for amusements and snacks, and a garment bag for costumes.
On the day of the dance competition, remember to bring the essential item: Patience. Your dancer will be energized, but that can quickly change to nerves. Be patient and try to remember that these performances are meant to be for your child’s enjoyment, don’t let your anxiety level spoil it. Be reassuring and cheer your child on, hopefully you’ll have to pack for this adventure many times!
Do you want to learn more about preparing for dance competitions? Check out Dana Burnett’s Dance Mom blog for more great tips and useful articles on raising future dancing stars!
