On the next episode of Dance Mom....

So three is the age when all of a sudden there are lots of classes and activities available. To be honest there are tons of mom and tot classes, 10:00 on a tuesday doesn't work out so well for working moms. Growing up I was in every activity under the sun, but I don't think I'll do that with Penny. Not for the usual reason of being afraid of being overscheduled though. After having her in day care full time during the week, the idea of having her in classes during the time we can spend time with her makes me sad. I think this semester it will just be this Saturday morning dance class and an evening swim lesson.

I had been unorganized as usual and didn't google "minneapolis kids dance classes" until last Wednesday. Lo and behold, the first dance school that came up not only had classes at a studio, but also has teachers at the local community centers on different days. Saturday's 3-4 year old "Creative Movement" class was at the park 2 blocks from our house. Perfect! Here was our mode of transportation to get to class:

After the first class I think I would have been better off signing Penelope up for track! In the beginning she was interested, but then one little boy kept running to the other side of the gym and off Penelope went with him. I felt bad for the teacher. Here's some photos I caught when she was actually participating:

The worst part is the kid who didn't pay attention had the mom who didn't read. When we arrived the teacher gave me a "Tips for a Successful Dance Class". I glanced at it, but had to help Penelope unzip her jacket and get her shoes on so I stuffed the paper in my bag. You'd think after I wondered about being the only parent watching the class that I would have checked the flyer, but no, I totally missed the part that "Parents are asked to only watch the last 10-15 minutes of class. They are a distraction to children" Yup, I was the dance mom that broke the rules. Now I know for next time. And hopefully Penelope will be a better listener!