Why It’s Important to Show Up for Your Child’s Dance Performance

It’s the end of the dance class session, and the kids have been practicing their routine for weeks. The choreography is finally becoming muscle memory. They’re buzzing with excitement—not just about the steps, but about showing me, their teacher, that they remember it all on their own.

As I wrap up class, I remind them, “Our dance show is coming up, and your family and friends are invited to come watch us perform together!”

Their faces light up. A few hands shoot into the air, and the questions start flowing:

“You mean… like on the camera?”

 “MY mom is invited?”

 “Where is the show?”

This moment reminds me just how much it means to them—this idea that someone they love will be there, clapping just for them.

Showing up for your child’s dance performance is about more than seeing a few twirls and steps. It’s about validating their effort and commitment. Your presence says: I see you. I’m proud of you. Your hard work matters to me.

Even if they don’t get every move perfect on stage or experience their first stage fright, your presence is what they’ll remember. Years from now, they may forget the routine—but they won’t forget scanning the crowd and seeing your face.

So if you’re wondering whether it really matters if you go to the dance show: it does. More than you probably realize. Be in the audience. Clap loudly. Take the blurry photo. It’s not about perfection—it’s about presence.