Tap dancing is a fun and rewarding activity for girls of all ages. It combines rhythm, movement, and musicality, all while letting them express themselves creatively. But before they can start mastering those fancy footwork routines, you’ll need to find the right tap shoes. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you find the perfect pair for your little dancer!
Types of Girls’ Tap Shoes
There are two main types of tap shoes for girls:
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Mary Jane tap shoes: These feature a comfortable, closed-in design with a buckle strap. They’re a great choice for younger dancers or beginners, as they provide good ankle support.
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Oxford tap shoes: These lace-up shoes offer a more traditional tap shoe look. They’re a good option for older dancers or those with wider feet.
Additional Features to Consider
Sole material:
Leather soles are the most durable option, but they can also be more expensive. Rubber soles are a good alternative, especially for younger dancers.
Shank:
The shank is a piece of metal or plastic embedded in the midsole of the shoe. It provides support and stability. Shanks can be full-length, ¾ length, or none at all. Full shanks offer the most support, while no shank provides the most flexibility.
Taps:
Taps come in different materials, sizes, and sounds. Most tap shoes come pre-attached with taps, but you can also replace them if needed.
Getting the Right Fit
A proper fit is essential for comfort and performance. Here are some tips for getting the right size tap shoes for your daughter:
- Measure her feet: Have her feet measured by a professional at a dance store. This will ensure you get the correct length and width.
- Allow for some growing room: Leave a little bit of space at the end of the toes, about the width of your thumb.
- Try before you buy: Whenever possible, let your daughter try on the shoes before you buy them. This will help ensure they’re comfortable and don’ t pinch or rub.
Making Girls’ Shoes Tap Dancing Fun and Rewarding
Once you’ve found the perfect pair of tap shoes, it’s time for the fun part – tap dancing! Here are some tips to help your daughter get the most out of her tap dancing experience:
- Choose the right class: Look for a tap dance class that is age-appropriate and geared towards her skill level.
- Encourage practice at home: Set aside some time each week for her to practice what she learned in class. You can even find fun tap dance routines online or create your own.
- Make it a positive experience: Focus on the fun and enjoyment of tap dancing. Avoid being critical or putting too much pressure on her.
With the right shoes, encouragement, and a positive attitude, your daughter is sure to love tap dancing!
Building a Tap Dance Wardrobe: Beyond the Shoes
Tap shoes are the foundation, but there are other outfit elements to consider for your daughter’s tap dancing journey!
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Comfortable Clothing: Tap dancing involves a lot of movement, so loose-fitting, comfortable clothing is essential. Leggings, sweatpants, or comfy shorts and a t-shirt are all great options.
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Tights: Tights can add a touch of warmth and can also help the taps show through more clearly. Look for opaque tights in black or another approved color by the dance studio.
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Hair Accessories: Long hair can get in the way while dancing. Headbands, hair clips, or ponytail holders can help keep hair out of your daughter’s face.
Safety First: Avoiding Injuries with Proper Technique
Tap dancing is a fun activity, but it’s important to prioritize safety. Here are some tips to help prevent injuries:
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Proper Warm-Up: Before each class, make sure your daughter warms up her muscles with some light stretches and cardio. This will help improve flexibility and reduce the risk of pulled muscles.
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Listen to Her Body: It’s important for your daughter to listen to her body. If she’s experiencing any pain, she should take a break or stop altogether and inform her instructor.
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Technique is Key: Proper technique is essential for preventing injuries. A qualified tap dance instructor will teach your daughter the correct way to perform steps and movements to minimize stress on her joints.
Encouraging a Love of Tap Dancing
Finding the right tap shoes is just the first step. Here are some ways to keep your daughter motivated and enthusiastic about tap dancing:
Celebrate Progress:
Acknowledge and celebrate your daughter’s improvements, no matter how small. This will help her stay motivated and keep practicing.
Tap Dance Performances:
Many dance studios hold recitals or performances throughout the year. Attending these events can be a great way for your daughter to showcase her skills and build confidence.
Make it Fun:
Tap dancing should be enjoyable! Find ways to make it fun for your daughter at home. Play tap music and have dance parties, or watch tap dancing videos together online.
By following these tips, you can help your daughter have a safe, positive, and rewarding tap dancing experience!
Caring for Girls’ Tap Shoes: Keeping Them Looking and Sounding Great
Tap shoes are an investment, so proper care will help them last longer. Here are some tips for keeping your daughter’s tap shoes looking and sounding their best:
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Store them properly: When not in use, store tap shoes in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. This will help prevent the leather from cracking or drying out.
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Cleaning: Wipe down the shoes with a damp cloth after each use to remove dirt and dust. You can also use a leather cleaner or conditioner specifically designed for tap shoes.
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Replace worn-out taps: Taps can become loose or worn over time. This can affect the sound and performance of the shoes. Have your daughter’s tap instructor or a cobbler replace worn-out taps.
Going the Extra Mile: Advanced Tap Shoes and Techniques
As your daughter’s tap dancing skills progress, she may eventually want to consider more advanced tap shoes and techniques:
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Telemark Tap Shoes: Telemark tap shoes have a special heel that allows for a wider range of motion and advanced footwork.
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Rhythm Tap Shoes: Rhythm tap shoes often have a lighter construction and a different type of tap than standard tap shoes. These are designed for a specific tap dance style that emphasizes intricate footwork and fast tempos.
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Advanced Tap Techniques: With more experience, your daughter can explore advanced tap techniques like flams, paradiddles, and shuffles. These techniques require precise footwork and coordination.
The World of Tap Dancing: Exploring Different Styles
Tap dancing is a diverse art form with a rich history. Here’s a glimpse into some of the different styles your daughter might encounter:
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Broadway Tap: This high-energy style is often seen in musical theater productions. It features intricate footwork, jumps, and turns.
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Rhythm Tap: This fast-paced style emphasizes intricate footwork and complex rhythms.
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American Tap: This traditional style incorporates elements of African American and Irish step dancing.
By choosing the right shoes, providing encouragement, and fostering a love for tap dancing, you can help your daughter tap into a world of fun, creativity, and artistic expression!
