No, their dance wasn't perfect, but for a small group of 4 and 5 year olds it was pretty good. Ryann did a wonderful job staying with the music and only forgot one part. And she was pretty pumped because she got to wear lots of make-up and fake hair. I'll admit the fake hair was pretty awesome. Hers looked a bit cheerleaderish (not that that is a terrible thing, but not what I was going for) but it was too cute. And makes me long for a day that maybe her hair will thicken up a bit!
After the showcase Ryann asked me if she was all done with that dance. When I reminded her that she still has two competitions and a recital to go, she asked me what a competition is. We have kind of been over it before, but I've tried not to dwell on it too much because winning doesn't matter, especially at this age. I want her to enjoy the atmosphere, have fun with her dance friends, and feel like she is a part of a team. But I explained that a bunch of different studios will come and dance and try to do their best so they can win ribbons and trophies. Naturally she is now paranoid that she won't be good enough and won't win. Of course I assured her over and over that winning doesn't matter. Smiling and having fun does. So we'll see.
After that conversation I looked up the various rules for the competitions we're going to, and the category that these cute little girls will be in is 8 and under. I'm sure their age is considered when comparing the two, but the difference between an 8 year old's ability and a 4 year old's ability is pretty big. So that will be interesting.
Nonetheless, Ryann is having fun and learning a lot, and I'm loving watching her dance. Can't believe I'll be heading in to a dance competition as a parent!