How to Help Your Teenager When They Want to Quit
Dear Dance Parents,
Navigating the teenage years can come with so many twists and turns. As someone who once grappled with my own dance struggles during adolescence, I understand the importance of empathizing with your teenager's perspective if they're contemplating stepping away from dance. Here are some tips to help your teenager when they are contemplating quitting dance.
Foster Autonomy and Ownership: Teenagers yearn for autonomy, and involving them in decisions about their dance journey is crucial. Giving teens a voice enhances their motivation and engagement. Have candid conversations with your teenager about their feelings towards dance, allowing them to express themselves while offering guidance and support. One thing my teachers used to tell me is that “we don't quit on our worst day; we only quit if we still want to after our best day.” This can be helpful to make sure the decision is motivated by more than just a bad day or a mid-year slump.
Highlight Transferable Skills: Dance isn't just about pirouettes and pliés; it instills invaluable life skills. Studies from the Journal of Applied Developmental Psychology reveal that participation in activities like dance enhances leadership, teamwork, and time management skills. Encourage your teenager to reflect on how dance has shaped them and how these skills will serve them well beyond the studio.
Provide Opportunities for Growth: Teenagers thrive on challenges and opportunities for growth. It is deeply important for teens to engage in meaningful activities in order to build self-esteem. Encourage your teenager to set ambitious dance goals and support them as they navigate their journey with determination and resilience.
Cultivate a Supportive Environment: Adolescence can feel like a whirlwind of peer pressure and self-doubt, so creating a supportive environment is paramount. Studies from the Journal of Youth and Adolescence underscore the significance of parental support in teens' engagement in extracurricular activities. Show up for your teenager's performances, offer words of encouragement, and celebrate their achievements to reinforce your unwavering support for their passion for dance.
Remember, we don't quit on our worst day; we only quit if we still want to after our best day. Loving dance doesn't mean we always want to do it. Discipline is one of the deepest forms of love, and going to dance when we don't feel excited about it is not necessarily a sign that we should quit. By acknowledging and addressing the unique challenges and aspirations of teenagers, parents can empower their children to persist in dance and reap its countless benefits. Stay tuned for our next blog, where we'll dive into strategies for supporting young adults in maintaining their dedication to dance amidst life's competing demands!
With joy,
Julianna Rubio Slager