Now that the Nutcrackers are over you may be in full swing for competition choreography or you may have started your recital work. It is also that time of year when the grind starts and it is important to keep your students motivated. It is easy for the students to become a bit blasé and start to go on automatic pilot. It is also important for you as a teacher to give your class a jolt. If you have been doing the same warm-up now is a good time to mix it up. Changing your routine is important especially if you have been doing the same thing for the past four months. Changing things up will keep you fresh and will keep your students on their toes.

The Top Ten Ideas To Keep It Fresh And Fun!

1. Change your music. This is a big one as it will always get your students attention. I know you may have your favorite warm-up music but finding and using new music will be well worth your time.

2. Change your attire. That right, you deserve it! Go out and buy a new leotard, dance pants and fun tee shirts that make a bold statement (just not too bold!) New shoes may also be in order. The key here is to create a new look for your students to look at.

3. Get your students to perform in class. This is one that we try to always have happen but it is easy for students to get into cruise control. Tell them beforehand that you are working on the performing aspect of dance and then you could break the class into small groups where each group gets to watch each other and pick one person who really shines. This is a great way to get the students in performing mode.

4. Turn around. I am not talking about pirouettes I am talking about facing away from the mirror. And not just for the routine. I even like to have the class split in half and face each other for the warm-up. Taking the mirror out of dance is interesting for you to see how the class responds.

5. Get your class to laugh. I know you may be thinking, hey I am not a clown! Ok I understand but when you can get your class to laugh it lightens things up. If you are plugging away in rehearsal and there is a light moment where you can get a laugh it will go a long way towards better retention and improved performance. I have seen it over and over again. Plus if a class or group is struggling it is a great way to shake things up and will create a better atmosphere.

6. Change your class flow. While you need to do some kind of warm-up there is no law that says you can't just do progressions after that or spend the time working on leaps or turns. How about a mini production number that you can build over several classes. The key is mixing it up.

7. Use improv. This is a real eye opener. It is amazing how when you mention improv how the students will react. Some are downright scared by the thought of creating their own movement. The key is to let them know that in regards to movement there are no rules just feel it and move!

8. Use a prop. Scarfs, hoops, canes and any other thing you can think of. I had a class once that I had them bring in a prop of their choice and then I choreographed a combination where they would use the prop. It was interesting to see how the students integrated their different props with the movement.

9. Create a contest. This one is fun and you can have a prize like a free private lesson or a small gift card for ITunes. You can do one for most pirouettes, best leaps, kicks or best performer. When I do this I will give them one month to improve. In each class that I work with where this contest will happen I will work on tips and techniques that will help them. The key is that they will practice and whether they win or not they will improve!

10. Take some time for yourself. Again this is a big key for you to stay fresh. Get out of the studio and find a place that keeps your creative juices flowing. Go for a walk; find a place where you can listen to some music undisturbed.

So there you have it. If you find that you or your students are in a rut, change things up and enjoy the benefits. The most important key to your student's success is you. So if you can keep them active, engaged and interested you will have a great time seeing their progress all year long!