Ask Juliette
Ask Juliette is Allegra & Co.’s resident advice dancer for artists chasing their next step. With humor, honesty, and a little tough love, Juliette answers real questions from the community about confidence, artistry, growth, and everything in between.
“Dear Juliette, how do I know if my child is really ready for harder classes?”
Oh momma, here’s the secret no one tells you: readiness isn’t defined by perfect turnout or the prettiest arabesque… it’s a combination of mind, body, and spirit.
Here’s what I and possibly others look for when a dancer is ready to take that next step:
1. Curiosity that just won’t quit.
A dancer who asks questions, watches the older classes, and naturally tries new steps is showing you they’re hungry for more.
2. Consistent focus even on “slow days.”
Every child has moments of wiggles, but overall they can follow corrections, stay engaged, and show respect for the work.
3. Their technique is holding… even as choreography gets trickier.
This doesn’t mean perfection; it means their basics are strong enough that they won’t build bad habits in a faster class.
4. The teacher says it is time.
Your child’s instructor isn’t just looking at today. They’re seeing who your dancer can become with the right guidance. They’ve watched them grow and will help guide your dancer with their love and knowledge. They’ve been there, just like I have. Trust that their teacher knows when the time is right.
At the end of the day, leveling up isn’t about rushing. It’s about making dance feel joyful, confidence-boosting, and magical. When your dancer is ready… you’ll feel it too. Stay cheering them on and letting them grow💗
Lovingly,
Juliette
“Ms. Juliette, how do I push myself to become better and improve my dancing?” — Anonymous Dancer
Ah, the million-turn question.
First. Take a deep breath. Improvement doesn’t come from constantly proving you’re “good enough.” It comes from staying curious, consistent, and just a little uncomfortable. Being “better” isn’t only about higher extensions or cleaner turns. It’s about being more consistent.
Start by setting micro-goals. One correction per class. One skill to polish each week. Those small wins add up faster than you think.
Then, watch yourself without judgment. Record your practice, but instead of critiquing everything at once, look for patterns like “Do I always drop my shoulder in turns?” Once you see it, you can fix it.
And finally, fall in love with the process. The dancers who grow the most aren’t the ones who are hardest on themselves; they’re the ones who treat practice like a conversation with their body, not a fight.
So next time you’re frustrated, remember: progress hides in repetition. Keep showing up. Keep asking questions. And don’t forget to celebrate those tiny victories! They’re the foundation of greatness.
💗 Keep moving,
Juliette