I have a feeling we're not in Kansas anymore....

You know the story. You are out with your friends on a lovely St.Patricks Day afternoon. Over the loud speaker you hear "Gather round! The "Insert Name Here" school of Irish dance is about to perform. You pick up your drink and make your way closer to get a good view. The music starts, the crowd stars to clap along and the dancers rock out an amazing hard shoe routine. Next up a soft shoe number - how do they jump so high? Whoooo... the crowd goes wild! Just when you thought it couldn't get any better the teacher walks out a few beginner dancers. OMG so cute!!! They look super nervous. You don't even think they will do it..... The music starts and the dance teacher stays close by and even hold the hands and dances along with the really nervous kids. They. Are. Adorable! You find out they are all about 6 years old. You think "Hey I have a 6 year old - I wonder if she would love to Irish dance?" And the rest is history. Dance schools are called and you sign up for classes.

Suddenly you are in this world that is completely foreign to you. You hear words you don't understand.... what the heck is an Oireacthas? Do I need those shoes right away? Parents Associations, Fundraising, competitions.... "Wait - that's not their real hair!?!?" It can be a bit overwhelming.

You have so many questions. You feel a bit nervous to ask the other parents. It seems like they know it all. It may seem that way but I'm here to tell you it's not true - AT ALL. You need to remember that all of those parents have been where you are. 99% of the time you will be met with an enthusiastic, sometimes over the top and long winded answer. Many parents love to be able to share what they have learned because they remember what it was like to be brand new. Don't be afraid to ask! Before you know it you will have your own little dance village of amazing moms and dads who you can work with to navigate this crazy and amazing new world of Irish Dance! You will soon see that you have made a fantastic choice for yourself and your child.

If you are reading this and you are not new to the sport - step out of your comfort zone and befriend a beginner parent. Think back to the early years of dance and that you would have loved to know. I know it will be appreciated!