When my son, Ethan, revealed at just five years old that he was done with dance, I thought my dreams of being a dance mom were dashed. Truth be told, I didn’t have that ambition in the first place. However, I couldn’t resist the allure of those adorable costumes and the sight of a pint-sized ballerina sporting a perfect little bun.
What truly caught me off-guard, though, was when I discovered that my daughter, Mia, had an undeniable knack for dance. Neither my husband nor I possess a shred of rhythm, so I was taken aback the first time I saw her move to the music as if it flowed through her.
Last year, I decided it was time to encourage her to take a leap into dance classes. Initially, Mia was reluctant, preferring to play video games, but with some coaxing, she agreed to give it a shot. To my delight, she loved it and was eager to continue—until I took a closer look at the financial commitment involved.
While the class fees were manageable, the additional expenses—registration fees, costume fees, and recital fees—were overwhelming. Suddenly, it felt like every week brought a new charge.
Mia was enrolled in a hip-hop class, and honestly, I believe she could pick up the moves just as well from YouTube tutorials. And don’t get me started on that $40 costume which consisted of a basic tee and some oversized pants.
Even so, I couldn’t bear to pull back on spending because she truly enjoyed it. Not only that, but she was catching on quickly, and her teacher suggested private lessons. However, I decided to prioritize our mortgage over that option.
At the end of the semester, I was stunned to learn we’d need to shell out $10 per ticket just to watch her perform in a recital she’d worked so hard for. “Excuse me, what?” I exclaimed when her teacher explained this was standard practice at dance studios. For our family of four, that meant an additional $40 for a two-minute routine made up mostly of swaying and clapping while the other kids danced. As I sat there with my restless toddler who asked multiple times if we could leave, I couldn’t help but think, can a seven-year-old get a job?
I don’t regret enrolling Mia in dance or any extracurricular activity for that matter. I’m thrilled that my kids have these opportunities to explore their passions. Sure, I may grumble to myself each month as I write that check, but I can’t help but occasionally daydream about what I could afford if dance wasn’t a factor. After all, it’s fun to dream, right?
So, as I sit outside the dance studio, here are a few things I fantasize about:
- Self-Grooming: My brows often resemble those of a grumpy old man, and let’s not even discuss the chin hairs creeping up on me as I approach 40. Laser hair removal sounds divine.
- High Thread Count Bed Sheets: I once envisioned that by 40, I’d have luxurious sheets. Nope, still waiting.
- A Second Pair of Fitting Pants: With my current wardrobe limited to a single pair, it would be nice to have another option, but dance takes precedence.
- Supporting Friends’ Businesses: I love my friends’ entrepreneurial spirit selling essential oils, but supporting Mia’s dance endeavors comes first. Those leggings might be flattering, but I’ll have to pass.
- Home Repairs: There’s a gaping hole in the wall from my attempt to swat a spider—a repair would be nice, but dance has my wallet in a chokehold.
- Noise-Canceling Headphones: Because let’s face it—kids! But they’re not in the budget.
- Car Detailing: I’d love to clean out my car, but with the dance expenses, I might as well let it stay a mess.
- Avocados: Have you seen avocado prices lately? My guacamole dreams are dashed thanks to dance.
- Quality Toilet Paper: I’m serious about this one.
Maybe it’s time to consider having Mia contribute financially. After all, she loves to dance, and someone has to pay for it.
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In summary, while the costs of dance can be staggering, the joy it brings to my child makes it all worthwhile.