Broadway Dance Center Children & Teens, Summer Camp
8 weeks later, Chase during his finale Show Case: last group dance of the season with his awesome counselors!
Hello! If you're on this blog post, you've probably watched Chase's dance life evolve this summer on Instastories (click here for videos)! Or if you're new to us and interested in a summer camp or dance camp/classes - you've landed on the right page!
WHY DANCE
We looked into different types of camps for the summer, but when I saw "Broadway Dance Center Children & Teens" it caught my eye because Chase loves dancing at home!
HALF DAY or FULL DAY
The longest class Chase attended prior to dance camp was 3 hours. When we partnered up with Broadway Dance Center Children & Teens, I wondered how he would handle a full 9-4 day, Monday through Friday. Or rather, I wondered how I would handle a full day away from Chase! Ha. Turns out we both fared very well and the 8 weeks flew by for both of us! The full day schedule gave me a chance to get work done at home and Chase had a blast all day!
Camp starts at nine, but campers are welcome starting from 8:30am which is great for dropping them off before heading to work or to get a head start on your day.
WELL ROUNDED
The great thing about BDC is that it's truly a summer camp and not just dance all day. Once, Chase took a sick day and he told me he was sad to miss crafts and play times. They often venture out to Central Park as well!
If you're a parent who follows me on Instagram, your child might be on the younger side. There is nap time after lunch, and you can even bring something snuggly like a stuffed animal for your child which they will keep for them in their cubbies.
They bring home arts and crafts nearly every day.
You can also see how clean the facilities are kept!
Chase learned to do headstands and forward rolls during tumbling time!
SHY AT FIRST, BUT NOT FOR LONG
Chase was excited to go somewhere new, but he had just graduated as one of the biggest kids and it was his first time being in a setting as the "little one". On the first day, the teachers blew bubbles and his face lit up and I knew it'd be fine to leave him.
When I asked him about camp the first week, I could tell he was particularly intimidated by moves he couldn't master yet.
At first, he would rather not participate than try the moves.
FIRST WEEK DOWN
After the first week, it was clear he already had a best friend. They were glued at the hips!
Each week the theme (Superheros, Wild West, Space, etc.) changes as do the teachers. The faculty members are really invested and encouraging!
SHOW CASE
Then came the first Friday. Every Friday of summer camp, the school has a special Show Case where the students show off what they learned that week! I knew it would become the highlight of my week, and I absolutely counted down the days until each showcase. It was a chance to see what Chase leaned toward. For instance, he turned it UP for Hip Hop!
His performed first Show Case facing me, lol! As the weeks progressed, he made lots of friends who cheered for him, barely noticing I was even there.
Shouting along to the lyrics while he performs! Excited much? Haha
PROGRESS and CONFIDENCE
It was clear Chase was becoming more comfortable with the school, the routines, and of course the dance moves. There is no doubt he enjoyed every minute of it!
Chase wrote to his teachers, “Thank you for teaching me new moves!”
Confidence level week 7! YEAH!
COMMUNITY and BIG KID LOVE
What I did not anticipate was the intense warm fuzzy feelings witnessing the community at Broadway Dance Center Children & Teens.
Around week 2, Chase came home one day talking about whether or not big kids are scary and we had a conversation.
I had no idea that they would get to know each other so intimately over the following weeks to build real connections and friendships. I can't thank the teachers enough for facilitating this!
They are always hugging and chanting encouragements. "Go Chase!!"
Sharing is caring - Even hugs!
Chase was in the 3-5 year old class. Dance parties with other age groups, as well as practicing for numbers together.
She wanted a photo before flying back home. We met a lot of International students who fly to NY to attend camp here!
"SHOWS" AT HOME
Dancing has lit up our lives. The first experience was when I was watching TV one evening, Chase wanted my attention. He made me turn off the TV as well as all the lights to set the mood, imitated his teacher's introductory words, asked Google Home to play his song, and put on a "show"! It's been a nonstop dance party ever since in our household!
MORE INFO
There are Winter, Spring, Holiday camps in addition to Summer camp.
Semester and Annual Enrollment
Drop-In and Guest Classes
Special Events (birthday parties, Parents' night out, etc.)
email: w65info@bwydance.com
http://www.broadwaydancecenter.com/children-teens/about-children-teens
Located on 65th street, west of Central Park, the neighborhood is surrounded by restaurants and Lincoln Center itself!
Pack snack and lunch (no nuts allowed)
There are monitors in the waiting areas to observe your child. Chase often asked me if I saw him do such-and-such on the screen. Once I saw him help put away a SLIDE! He looked like a little ant carrying it and I was proud of him. :)
Located on the 3rd floor, strollers and younger siblings are welcome. (AKA future dancers!)
Dress code: Sneakers and comfortable clothes
Fantastic way to keep kids active!
THANK YOU
We can't thank everyone at Broadway Dance Center Children & Teens enough!!
Thank you so much for having us, and we hope to see you very soon!
And POSE! :) Until next time!
