We are all responsible for creating a good dance environment. As such, please do not offer unsolicited advice to fellow dancers. Each person’s learning style is different. Unsolicited advice can often be distracting from or disheartening for a student’s learning. 

 

Classes and practicas are an ideal time to work out issues with a movement by relying on the instructing staff present. We ask that you rely on the wealth of resources that your instructors possess and never assume that you have the answer or that your partner is at fault. Our instructors are trained to give kind, constructive feedback. While you may have the best intentions when giving feedback to your partner, it can often be misinterpreted as unkind or condescending, or may simply not actually address the issue at hand. If we see behavior or receive complaints about unsolicited advice or unkind comments on the dance floor, you will be warned by our staff and given better tools for working with your partner. Hajime Dance School reserves the right to take more severe punitive measures (as seen fit by our staff) if the behavior persists.  

 

If you are having difficulty executing a move during a social or practica, we suggest the following verbiage to ensure you remain kind and respectful to your partner: 

“I am having trouble with the move, how does it feel to you?” 

“Is there anything I can do to make the move more comfortable?” 

“I am not quite feeling what you are leading. Can we please try it again?”

“I would love to have an instructor watch us to see if we are doing it correctly, do you mind?” 

 

Feedback on the social floor is not appropriate unless specifically requested by your partner. A social is a space where students are meant to enjoy and experience the dance at whatever technical level they are at. Giving feedback on the social dance floor can provide a bad experience for the receiver of said feedback. If you have concerns about someone’s safety when dancing socially, please get in touch with a Hajime Dance School staff member. 

 

Additionally, teaching on the social dance floor is not encouraged. Dance at whatever your partner’s level is and do not try to teach them more advanced movements. This can often lead to injury if the movement is not taught correctly or fully understood by both parties.