Wanna Know Where To Find Your Best Team Members?

If you’ve ever found yourself short-staffed, overstretched, or wondering how to create a stronger studio culture, the answer might be right in front of you.

Your assistant teachers aren’t just class helpers.
They’re your studio’s future.

In this week’s episode of the Dance Principals United Podcast, Amanda and Rebecca dive into how you can grow your own teaching team from within, starting with those quiet, enthusiastic 12- to 14-year-olds who are just beginning to shine.

Here’s what they had to say about spotting potential early, training well, and why investing in young leaders can be one of the best decisions you make as a studio owner.

1. Spotting Potential Early

One of the biggest takeaways? Don’t wait for students to ask to assist.
Look for the ones showing natural leadership, kindness, or curiosity — even if they’re not your top competition dancers.

Sometimes the child who’s not winning trophies is the one who’ll make an exceptional teacher. If you notice a student showing maturity, great communication skills, or a genuine love for helping others, call it out. Speak to them (and their parents) about the potential you see.

✨ “That moment of encouragement could keep them dancing, give them confidence, and change the trajectory of their life”

2. Training, Not Throwing In

Let’s be real: there’s a big difference between having an assistant and training an assistant.

Too often, young assistants are thrown into classes without guidance. That’s a fast track to frustration, for both them and your teachers.

What works better?

• Clear training sessions before their first class

• Ongoing feedback from lead teachers

• One-on-one check-ins

• Opportunities to observe and reflect

In Amanda’s studio, her head preschool teacher even runs the training. And in Rebecca’s? There’s a full feedback loop happening every week — even if it’s just a quick “great job with the roll today, next week let’s try this…”

These small moments add up.

3. Smile (Seriously!)

One thing that came up again and again: your assistants need to look warm, friendly, and engaged, especially with little ones.

Resting serious face? Nervous body language? It can read as disinterest or frustration to your students.

Teaching assistants should be reminded to:

• Smile genuinely

• Keep open posture

• Stay off the wall and off their phones

• Use encouraging, age-appropriate language

Confidence builds over time — but it starts with awareness and support.

4. Let Them Lead

When teens feel like they’re part of the studio (not just attending) they’re far more likely to stay involved.

From running discos to helping backstage, giving young dancers real responsibility creates buy-in and pride.

Let them know:

✔️ You see them
✔️ They belong
✔️ Their contributions matter

Even more powerful? Talk to them about the future.

Do they love choreography? Teaching? Maybe they’re more into social media or admin. There’s a path for them in your studio, if you’re willing to help them grow into it.

5. Bring Parents on the Journey

Many parents still don’t see dance as a “real job.” That’s our opportunity to educate them.

When you spot potential in a student, share it with their parent. Call, email, or chat after class. Let them know their child has strengths beyond technique, and that you’re investing in them.

Amanda reminds us that this isn’t just good for the student, it’s powerful for retention too.

✨ “That moment of recognition builds loyalty and trust. It’s a retention tool, a leadership tool, and a heart tool.”

Final Thoughts

When you train and mentor your assistant teachers intentionally, you’re not just filling a staffing gap. You’re shaping the future of your studio.

You’re creating leaders. Role models. Lifelong ambassadors for your studio’s values.

And maybe, just maybe, you’re giving a shy 13-year-old the confidence to believe they belong.

Want more support building your dream team?

🎧 Listen to the full podcast episode here

💻 Ready to dive deeper? Join us in the Dance Principles United Tribe — and get 2 weeks FREE to explore all our tools, templates, and trainings made just for studio owners. Click here to join