5 Questions to Ask When Choosing a Dance Studio - And Why Tonawanda Dance Arts Has Your Answers

As parents, you want your child’s extracurriculars to be safe, enriching, and fun. It can be hard to know what questions to ask when choosing a dance studio. Below are five key questions — and how Tonawanda Dance Arts strives to answer them every day.

1. How do you ensure safety and professionalism?

Safety and trust are foundational. At TDA:

• All instructors and staff undergo background checks, and are First Aid / CPR certified (we believe in being proactive, not reactive).

• Our facility is equipped with sprung floors, wireless sound systems, and closed-circuit TVs & live streaming so parents can view classes securely and comfortably.

• As an MTJGD-affiliated studio, we follow industry best practices in curriculum, staff training, and student care.

• We carry a satisfaction guarantee—if you’re not happy with your experience, we’ll work with you to make it right.

When you visit prospective studios, ask to see safety policies, observe how staff interact with students, and check how transparent they are about training and risk mitigation.

2. What happens if my child isn’t sure dance is for them?

Trying something new can feel intimidating for kids (and adults!). At TDA:

• We offer a trial class so families can see how the environment fits before committing.

• Our structure also includes mini sessions and pop-ups - lower-commitment ways to explore dance without jumping into a full season right away.

• We encourage open communication. If a student feels unsure, we’ll talk through options, help reposition classes, or suggest a gradual path forward.

• A dance studio shouldn’t pressure you; it should support finding the best fit for the student.

3. Are all costs transparent and clear from the beginning?

Hidden fees can sour a good experience fast. At TDA:

• We list tuition, performance fees, costume fees, and other costs up front. You can check them out here!

• Because we want families to feel comfortable and prepared, we offer clear payment plans and detailed billing communications.

• You’ll never be surprised mid-season by an unexpected charge—our goal is trust and clarity.

When you compare studios, ask: Are performance, costume, registration, and recital fees all disclosed? Are there payment plan options?

4. What kind of training and ongoing education do your instructors receive?

Great instruction comes from teachers who keep growing. At TDA:

• Our team undergoes continuing education, workshops, and curriculum alignment with MTJGD’s development standards.

• We emphasize quality across styles—ballet, jazz, tap, hip hop, acro, and more—so students get strong technique and artistic development in every class.

• Because dance is more than steps, we also support instructors in student engagement, child development, classroom management, and holistic education.

Before committing, ask studios: What ongoing training do your teachers receive? How do you ensure consistency across classes and instructors?

5. What makes your studio different?

Every studio has its culture. Here’s what sets TDA apart:

• Over 25 years in business, TDA has grown into a trusted community in the Tonawanda/Buffalo area.

• We offer over 120 classes per week, spanning toddlers to teens, with a variety of styles and levels.

• Flexibility at every turn - Whether your student wants to try a new dance class half way through the year, you need to watch your child’s class from our virtual dance portal or your child needs an option that lets them dip their toes into dance, Tonawanda Dance Arts is here to support the needs of your family.

• A stress-free experience from the first class, to recital performances. We pride ourselves on being a well organized and highly communicative studio so that your family is informed every step of the way.

• Trust, safety and cleanliness - The physical and mental safety of students is the top priority of Tonawanda Dance Arts. Our teachers and staff complete annual trainings to confidently lead happy, safe and fun classes where every child feels welcome.

Final thoughts...

Choosing a dance studio is about more than location or price—it’s about finding a place that aligns with your family’s values, supports your child’s growth, and prioritizes safety and excellence. At Tonawanda Dance Arts, we’re proud of the community we’ve built and are dedicated to making sure every child belongs, learns, and shines.