Ballet Lessons: Take Two

In preparation for ballet lessons this morning Zoë and I talked about how important it was to listen to the teacher's instructions and wait patiently for her turn.  We discussed how distracting it was for the other children when she was running around and not paying attention.  I didn't know if our little talk would make any difference at all, but I figured it couldn't hurt, right?

So we get to ballet class.  The teacher tells us (the parents) that she would like us all to wait outside because the little ballerinas get distracted when the have an audience.  That made me a bit nervous, but I thought that maybe Zoë's concentration would be better if it were just the students and teacher.  Maybe...

Fast forward five minutes.  The teacher comes to the window and motions me to come inside.  I asked if she meant just me or all of the mothers.  She said, "No just you, and I would like to speak with you after class."  Crap.

I felt a bit like I was going to the principals office.  I have never actually been to the principals office, but that is what I imagine it to be like.  So I sat and watched.  Zoë was trying so hard to be good.  She really was. She would look at me and say, "I'm being good?"  I had to keep reminding her to listen to the teacher but then she would participate.   

The good behavior lasted about twenty five minutes...until the ballet stretches started.  While all the other children were sitting on their little rugs and stretching, Zoë was laying on one and covering herself with the other and pretending to sleep (complete with snoring noises).  Then she decided it would be fun to push the carpet around the circle while the teacher was demonstrating steps.

That was my cue. I snatched up my little ballerina and left.  I didn't have to wait around to hear what the teacher was going to say.  I knew what I would say.  Zoë just isn't ready for ballet lessons.  As much as she wants to take them, she just doesn't have the patience or concentration for it yet.  Maybe next year.

I must say, I am not terribly upset.  I have been stressed out ever since last Friday imagining what it would be like today.  Yesterday didn't help that either. Kel and I took her to go see Surf's Up.  It was not pleasant.  The concept of inside voice is just beyond that child.  Ugh.  Needless to say, we will not be seeing another movie in the theater for quite some time.  As for the movie, it was pretty cute but I think the story line was over her head, much like Meet the Robinsons.  If it had been a princess movie I am sure she would have sat quietly like an angel.  I have seen Barbie: The Magic of Pegasus every day since her birthday. :)

Comments

[Jennifer]

Oh no Maegan! I can totally imagine the principal's office feeling. I can't help but laugh at the part where Zoe starts snoring though. That is just TOO funny! At least now you won't have to stress about this anymore. It sounds like you made the right decision!

[Tami]

Oh poor Zoe! She was trying so hard, I do think she is just to young, its ok, She will do better next time you try, The difference in a year in Tball is Huge, I can only imagine its the same in Ballet. look on the bright side, You got some good pictures!

[Ashley Olson]

OMG is that ZOE!?!! I cannot believe how long it has been since I visited your blog, I feel like scum now! She is so old now! So cute!!

[Laurie]

What a sweet leetle face! :) Too cute!

[Brandi]

Oh my! Well, don't be in any hurry.... those recitals can get very expensive (especially when you have two little ballerinas)!