“The Dance Belt Talk”
Getting your first dance belt is a rite of passage for young male dancers, but “the dance belt talk” is about as comfortable as a wedgie. No boy wants to discuss his changing body with an adult, much less, a teacher.
For Dance Studios
Be proactive, even if you don’t have boys enrolled yet. Not specifying attire reinforces the stereotype that boys don’t do ballet. A clear dress code requiring dance belts starting at age 11 turns it into a “big boy” milestone.
If only dance belts came with an instruction manual! Since the technique isn’t instinctive and boys in the dressing room can’t always help, linking your dress code to Doctor Dancebelt’s Guide can answer their questions.
For Teachers
“The talk” needs careful choreography to avoid misunderstandings. Involve the boy’s parents to educate them on the necessity of wearing a dance belt and how to choose one. Direct them to the website, especially the Fitting Younger Boys page.
Approach it like a normal dance studio conversation, but ensure a parent is present, even if the boy might prefer discussing his genitals without mom listening. Keep it short, point him to Doctor Dancebelt’s Guide, and reassure him that wearing one is just part of the job.
For Parents
The older a boy is when told to wear a dance belt, the more resistance you’ll face. If your son is 8 or older, get him one with his dance gear. If he’s been taking class without one, frame it as a milestone of maturity—wrap it up for his 11th birthday like car keys!
Point him to the “how to wear one” page in Doctor Dancebelt’s Guide, and while he may complain, remind him it’s a necessary part of his ballet gear. Your odds of becoming a grandparent someday just got a boost!
This is why Doctor Dancebelt’s Guide was created. It allows dancers and their parents to learn about dance belts without needing a face-to-face chat with their teacher.