When my daughter was just five, she crushed my hopes of becoming a dance mom by announcing she no longer wanted to participate. Truthfully, I wasn’t that keen on the idea, but those adorable costumes and tiny hair buns on little ballerinas were hard to resist.
What truly took me by surprise was when my son revealed a surprising talent for dance. Considering neither my husband nor I have any rhythm, I was utterly amazed the first time I saw him move. He seemed to embody the music with every step.
Last year, I decided he needed a little encouragement. Despite his previous refusals to join dance classes, I insisted he at least give it a shot. Like many boys his age, he preferred video games over anything else but reluctantly agreed to attend a class. Much to my delight, he not only enjoyed it but wanted to continue. That was until I realized the financial implications.
While the class fees were manageable, the registration, costume, and recital fees quickly added up, making my head spin. It felt as though there was a fee for every little thing imaginable.
My son was enrolled in breakdancing, and honestly, he could have learned most of the moves from YouTube. The $40 costume was nothing more than a T-shirt and oversized Hammer pants.
Despite the costs, I continued to pay for everything because he genuinely loved it. He was not only talented but picked things up quickly, with his teacher even suggesting private lessons. However, I opted for the more practical route: keeping up with my mortgage.
At the end of his first semester, I was shocked to learn that we had to pay $10 per ticket just to watch him perform in his recital. I was taken aback. “Wait, what?” I exclaimed. I nearly lost my mind when his teacher informed me that charging for recitals is standard practice at most dance studios.
For my family of five, that meant an additional $40 to witness my child’s two-minute performance, which mainly consisted of dabbing and clapping while other students showcased their skills. As I sat there with my fidgety 4-year-old, who repeatedly asked if we could leave, I started to feel a bit exploited.
Is it possible for a 7-year-old to get a job? I pondered as I watched the extravagant cuteness unfold before me.
Despite the financial strain, I have no regrets about enrolling my children in dance or any extracurricular activities. I cherish the opportunities they have to pursue their passions. Sure, I may mutter, “This better be his calling,” under my breath each time I write that check.
But sometimes, I can’t help but daydream about the luxuries I could afford if dance wasn’t such a drain on my finances. Here are a few things I fantasize about while waiting outside the dance studio, listening to the music of his dreams:
- Personal Grooming
My eyebrows could rival a 65-year-old man’s, and as I near 40, laser hair removal for my chin sounds appealing. Groomed toenails and anti-aging creams from Ulta would also be nice—if only dance didn’t dominate my budget. - Quality Bed Linens
In my 20s, I thought by 40 I’d be able to splurge on high thread count sheets. But alas, dance expenses have other plans. - A Second Pair of Fitting Pants
You’d think I’d be able to manage without guacamole, but I’m still stuck with just one pair of pants that fit. If only breakdancing didn’t take precedence over my wardrobe. - Multi-Level Marketing Goods
While I want to support my friends’ essential oil ventures, I also need to prioritize my son’s current passion for dance. Those leggings may flatter my “squishy” tummy, but I must decline. And no, I’m not interested in peacock-themed Jamberry nails either. - Home Repairs
There’s a hole in my wall from a year ago when I hastily removed a towel rod to eliminate a spider. Fixing it would be nice, but dance takes priority. - Noise-Canceling Headphones
Because, well, kids. But nope, those are out of reach. - Car Detailing
I know I’m fortunate, but it would be great if the mess from my kids didn’t spill out every time I opened the car door. On second thought, maybe I should just get a new car—if dance expenses didn’t exist. - Avocados
Have you seen how much avocados cost lately? It’s ridiculous! Sorry, guacamole, but my kid is dancing.
And good toilet paper? Just kidding, that one’s serious.
Perhaps it’s time to consider making my child get a job for real. I think as I listen to LMFAO blasting from the studio. After all, he truly loves to dance, and someone has to cover the costs.
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In summary, while the financial burden of my child’s dance classes is significant, the joy and passion it brings him make it worthwhile. I might daydream about what I could afford otherwise, but watching him thrive is priceless.