Why We Don’t Use a Franchised Preschool Dance Program
Franchised vs. Independent Dance Programs for Preschoolers
When looking for a preschool dance class, many parents come across franchised programs—structured curriculums that operate in multiple studios. Franchised dance programs come with built-in brand recognition, which can be reassuring for parents who are new to dance.
However, not all dance studios choose to adopt a franchised preschool program. Some, like ours, develop their own in-house curriculum to better align with their teaching philosophy, studio culture, and the needs of their students. There is no single "right" way to introduce young children to dance, but it’s worth considering the different approaches and what might work best for your child.
Why an independent, studio-developed preschool program are a great alternative
1. Flexibility to Adapt to the Class
A locally developed program allows teachers to adjust lesson plans in real time to suit the children in the room. If a group is especially engaged in a creative movement activity, the teacher can extend it. If a particular exercise isn’t resonating, they can pivot to something else. This flexibility ensures that learning feels natural and responsive rather than one-size-fits-all.
2. Encouraging Creativity and Self-Expression
A studio-developed program can allow children to thrive in an environment where creativity is at the forefront, where dance is not just about learning steps but also about experimenting with movement and personal expression. This can build confidence and a sense of ownership over their dancing, fostering a lifelong love of movement.
3. Community and Connection
When a program is created specifically for a studio’s students, it reflects the culture, teaching style, and values of that particular community. It allows for deeper connections between teachers, students, and families because the program is designed with them in mind.
Additionally, children who start in a locally developed preschool program often find it easier to transition into the next level of classes within the same studio. They are already comfortable with the teaching methods and environment, making the shift from preschool to school-aged dance a smooth and natural progression.
4. Rethinking the Role of Uniforms
Many preschool dance programs require specific branded uniforms, which help create a cohesive look and reinforce a sense of belonging. This works well for some families, but for others, it can feel like an unnecessary expense, especially since young children grow so quickly.
A more relaxed approach allows children to wear comfortable clothing of their choice in their formative years.. This makes participation more accessible, reduces financial pressure, and allows kids to feel comfortable in what they wear. It also gives them a small but meaningful opportunity to express themselves, which can be empowering at a young age.
5. A Program That Evolves
Franchised programs are designed to remain consistent across multiple locations, meaning any changes or updates must be implemented on a larger scale. This ensures a tried-and-tested curriculum but may limit how quickly it can adapt to new ideas or feedback.
A studio-developed program has the ability to evolve. If children express a desire for more creative movement activities, or if teachers notice that a particular exercise isn’t engaging students as well as expected, adjustments can be made almost immediately. This allows the program to stay dynamic and responsive, ensuring it remains effective and enjoyable for the children participating.
Final Thoughts: Considering Both Approaches
Both franchised and independent preschool dance programs have their strengths, and the best choice depends on what a family values in their child’s early dance experience.
A franchised program provides structure, consistency, and brand recognition, which can be appealing for those looking for a familiar and standardised approach. A locally developed program, on the other hand, offers flexibility, creative freedom, and a strong sense of community, allowing for a more tailored experience.
Neither is inherently better—it simply comes down to what aligns best with a child’s learning style and a family’s priorities. When choosing a preschool dance program, it’s worth considering what kind of environment will help your child feel the most engaged, confident, and excited about dance.
What we do at Dance Habit
At our studio, we’ve created our own preschool dance program instead of using a franchise, allowing us to prioritise flexibility, creativity, and community. Our programs are designed and delivered under a different theme each term allowing for students to dance through familiar elements and imaginative play within an engaging framework. Additionally, our programs are built on the foundation of The Early Years Learning Framework for Australia, ACECQA National Quality Standard 1, 2, 5 and 6, and our studio values of Kindness, Inclusion, Empowerment and Growth.
By tailoring lessons to our students and regularly refining our approach, we ensure every child’s first dance experience is fun, educational, and empowering. No matter the program or delivery, dance is a wonderful way for young children to grow in confidence, coordination, and connection — what matters most is finding the right fit for your little dancer to thrive.
If you’d like to come in for a trial class with Dance Habit, we’d love to welcome you to our studio. You can learn more about our preschool program and the styles of dance that we offer at the studio.