When they say “I Want to Quit” – What they might really be telling you…

It’s now the pointy end of term one. School kids are in week 10, our studio is in week 8, the summer feels like a distant memory, and everyone—everyone—is starting to feel it. This is the week we might start to hear it:
“Mum, I don’t want to go to dancing today.”
“Can I quit cheer?”
“I’m just too tired.”

And I want to share something with you as a teacher, studio owner, and someone who’s worked with thousands of families over the last 25 years:

When kids say they want to quit at this time of year, they usually don’t mean it. They’re just tired.

Term 1 Is a Marathon—Not a Sprint

Think about it:

• It’s the first full term after a long, unscheduled summer.

• Kids are adjusting to new classrooms, teachers, school routines.

• The novelty of the start of the year has worn off.

• Sleep patterns are off. Emotions are high. And energy is low.

For our dancers and cheerleaders, Term 1 is all about foundation work—learning technique, mastering basics, rebuilding stamina. There aren’t costumes or concerts yet. No sparkle. No spotlight. And for some kids, that’s hard to push through.

So What Do We Do When They Say “I Want to Quit”?

We listen.
We validate.
and we stay steady.

You might say:

“I hear you. It’s been a big term, and your body and brain are tired. It’s completely okay to feel that way. But we don’t quit when we’re tired—we rest, reset, and show up. Let’s go today, and we’ll take it one class at a time together.”

Often, what your child needs is not an exit—they need your calm confidence that they can do hard things. Because that moment of “I don’t want to go”… is the same moment they get out of the car, walk into class and leave an hour or so later glowing with pride that they did it anyway.

Progress Is Quiet—Until It Roars

If we only ever let our kids stay in things when they feel motivated, they’ll miss out on the deeper rewards:

• The pride of persistence.

• The joy of finishing what they started.

• The confidence that comes from stretching through discomfort.

They’re not just building skills in class right now—they’re building resilience.

And resilience is what turns dancers into confident teenagers.
It’s what turns nervous cheerleaders into brave performers.
It’s what turns “I can’t” into “Look at me now.”

We’ve Got Them—And You

If this is the week your child says “I want to quit,” just know: you’re not alone. We see it every year—and we’re here to support you through it.

Let’s keep showing up.
Let’s hold steady through the tired.
Because what’s waiting on the other side is so worth it.

We believe in your child.
We believe in you.
and we’re with you every step of the way. 💗🖤🤍