When I was growing up, Santa use to bring me the same thing every year. Every Christmas I’d look forward to opening a new leotard and a ballet calendar! The tradition started when I was 10 years old and lasted through high school. The leotard always fit within dress code, but had a little something about it that made it special. They were some of my favorite presents every year and stoked my love of ballet.
Need some ideas for the dancer in your life? Here are a few that our dancers love receiving.
1. A New Leotard
This is, without a doubt my top suggestion. There’s nothing quite like turning up in January sporting a new dance outfit and your dancer will wear it over and over again. Dance clothes tend to make it through more seasons than school clothes do. Check out Dancewear Inc at 8922 S. 700 E if you prefer to shop locally or discountdance.com for the best selection and cheapest pricing. Double check dress code before you buy!
2. A Personalized Water Bottle
Since water bottles get left at the studio (check the lost and found next time you come through) consider a getting a personalized bottle. You can find them on Etsy or add your dancer’s name yourself.
3. Stretch Bands
If your dancer is serious about her progress she’ll need a home stretching routine. Bands like these will let you access stretches you couldn’t otherwise.
4. Art
Decorate your dancers room with something inspirational. No matter what kind of dance they are into, you can find something to match their style and aesthetic. We found this one at allposters.com.
It’s neutral pallet makes in a pretty addition to a dancer’s bedroom!
5. Ballet Dolls
For younger dancers you can’t go wrong with a Ballet Barbie, or grab a ballet outfit to fit your dancer’s American Girl Doll. Imagining yourself performing on stage as a prima ballerina is an important step to getting there.
6. Yoga Block
A yoga block is a great tool for dancers to stretch and do conditioning exercises at home. We use them in the studio every week. Less flexible dancers can use them to make holding stretches more comfortable. More flexible dancers can use them to get into more difficult stretches.
7. Dance Themed Books
There are so many great dance books for all ages. Younger dancers might enjoy Angelina Ballerina or Fancy Nancy books. Misty Copeland has books out for a variety of ages. We even reviewed one of them here.
8. Tumbling Mat
A tumbling mat is a great tool for dancers who want to work on their tumbling skills at home. It’s also comfortable place to stretch or just enjoy being on the floor! (it’s a dancer thing – if you get it, you get it) You can pick up a mat from Amazon, or we’ve even seen them at Ikea. Price will vary quite a bit, and there is a quality difference that goes along with that, but even a thinner mat can be enough for home practice.
9. Portable Barre
This one takes a little bit of space, but if your dancer loves ballet, they’ll love having their own portable barre.
10. Foot Stretcher
If you want to make one yourself just type “DYI foot stretcher for dancers” into youtube and you’ll find a few options. You can then decide how fancy you want to get. DYI versions work great, but you can also buy them pre-made.
