Dance is an incredible form of expression and creativity. Tap dancing is fun because it’s a rhythmic style known for its intricate footwork, which produces a distinctive sound. Some think that only adults have the coordination to learn this dance; the truth is that kids enjoy it too.
They learn fast and can overcome challenges easily, so if your kid is already preparing for the stage, make sure they have the right attire. Shoes are the most important part of a tap dance outfit, but the dancewear plays a big role as well. To help your little dancer gear up for the stage, you can browse dance costumes for tap competition and choose the perfect one together. Here is how wearing the right costume can make a difference in the overall tap experience.
The Benefits of Wearing Proper Attire for Tap Dance Competition
Confidence Boost
Stylish and expertly crafted costumes can make the aspiring dancers feel comfortable in what they’re wearing. Putting on a costume that looks great and fits perfectly can boost their confidence, which can be beneficial especially for young dancers performing for the first time.
Theme and Character Expression
As any other dance, tap dance also tells a story and conveys a message. A theme can tie the whole performance together and make it more enjoyable. The costume reinforces the theme or the character the dancer is portraying. For kids, having the right costume can help them immerse in the role and express it better on stage.
Enhanced Performance
Costumes are designed to complement dancers’ movements. The right costume enhances the visual impact of the dance and the dancer’s performance.
Tips on Choosing the Right Tap Costume for Your Child
Choosing a dance costume for your little tap dancer can be a challenging task. To help you narrow down your selection, consider several factors, such as the following.
Comfort
Children need to feel comfortable in their costumes to perform with confidence and ease. Look for costumes with breathable materials and soft seams to avoid any discomfort on stage.
Durability
Dance costumes for kids should be durable enough to withstand rehearsals and performance. Children can be very active when preparing for stage, so you want to invest in a high-quality costume that won’t easily tear off or lose shape after a few wears.
Flexibility
No matter how stylish a costume is, it should never restrict the dancer’s movement. To ensure that the design of the costume allows for all necessary movements, check the materials used, plus the stitching and overall construction.
Nylon, lycra, and nylon/lycra blends are the most popular choices for children’s tap dance costumes due to their flexibility and durability. Nylon feels good on the skin and is an extremely stretchy and flexible material that provides a fitted look. Lycra, on the other hand, offers exceptional elasticity and allows for a wide range of motion. Nylon/lycra blends are excellent choices for maximising comfort without compromising on style and stage performance.
Fit
The right fit is crucial for your child’s dance costume. A costume that’s too tight can restrict movement, and if it’s loose, it can look sloppy on stage and may cause tripping hazards. To ensure a perfect fit, take the right measurements and stick to the sizing chart provided by the retailer.
Age
When selecting costumes for little tap dancers, it’s essential to consider age-appropriateness. Look for costumes that are stylish and fun and highlight children’s playfulness.
Colour
Children love bright colours, and that’s great because these colours can make a huge impact on the stage. Let them choose colours they like; just make sure they keep up with the theme.
Shoes and Accessories
Tap dancing requires precision and rhythm, and of course, the right outfit helps with this. The dance costumes for tap competitions are often elegantly crafted and more fitted to allow for clear visibility of the footwork. That’s because the look of a tap dancer can’t be complete without the shoes.
Tap shoes with metal plates on the toes and heels create the sound that this dance is famous for and add an extra layer of excitement to the overall dance experience. To add the finishing touch to your little one’s tap dance outfit, consider accessories such as bow ties, suspenders, and hats.
They’re popular additions and can bring a playful touch to the overall look and performance. Don’t be afraid to let your kid’s creativity shine with accessories; just be careful not to overdo it. The key is to find a balance between style and functionality on stage.
The Benefits of Tap Dancing for Children
The most obvious benefit is the physical activity children get through tap dancing. It’s like exercising, but much more fun! It can help them strengthen their muscles and develop great balance and coordination. It can be great for their mental health as well, as learning a new type of dance can be a confidence booster.
Tap dance classes can give them a creative outlet to channel their energy while learning something new. Also, enrolling your kid in tap classes can help them develop their social skills more. Joining a group of peers with the same interest in the dance can help them make new friends and learn more about collaborative activity.