Deanna Lewis has a great idea to share. It was her first year teaching full time, and she wanted to do something different and impactful for her dancers.
Each of her students wrote a personal goal at the beginning of every month for each of their classes. She found they were really attentive and driven, because it was a goal they set out for, rather than you telling them to get better.
At the end of the year she tied all their goals together and wrote notes back to them telling them great job working towards their goals, I’m so proud, and good luck at recital. They were all so appreciative and want to continue with this for next year!
The cards are note cards cut in half and then hole punched. She bought a pack of 200 at the dollar store, so supplies were pretty cheap! She also bought the ribbon to tie them together at the dollar store.
Her encouragement: Just remember that for every bad parent/whiny and uncommitted student, you have so many that love to dance with you and share your joy for dance!