About 18 months ago I tried to get Madelyn involved in a dance class and it was an utter failure. She would run crying out of the room if I didn't stay inside with her, and when I did stay she had to be physically touching some part of me and refused to participate in even the most basic movements. I felt bad for disrupting the other students and distracting the parents. It was embarrassing too, and I struggled with whether to push through in hopes it would "click" for Madelyn or wait until she expressed a more natural interest. After the second class with no improvement, I decided it would be better to wait.
Last week Gary took Madelyn to observe a ballet class and afterward expressed interest in participating--if she could dress like the other girls. So Gary bought her the leotard and ballet slippers and the following week we anxiously returned for Madelyn's reprise.
And she did great! Madelyn was focused and tried very hard to mimic the instructor and the other two more experienced girls in the class.
Last week Gary took Madelyn to observe a ballet class and afterward expressed interest in participating--if she could dress like the other girls. So Gary bought her the leotard and ballet slippers and the following week we anxiously returned for Madelyn's reprise.
And she did great! Madelyn was focused and tried very hard to mimic the instructor and the other two more experienced girls in the class.
Trying to get first position.
Gracefulness may not be one of Madelyn's most natural qualities...but perhaps her skills will improve with time and practice.
We are just so pleased that she enjoyed herself and hope it will continue to be a wonderful experience.
