I know exactly what you mean by same age, different levels. It can be a bit of a juggling act but I think you have to mix it up. Within the same class, gear some things up and gear some things down. Things that are easy for the advanced kids actually are good confidence builders overall. Occasionally you want stuff that’s easier even for the not so advanced kids.

I’ve found I just have to get creative sometimes and find new ways of teaching the same old thing. Sometimes the kids that are struggling just need to experience it in a different way to get it. Surprise even these older students with a prop or visual aid. Practice tendu lying down. Break up all the steps with 8 counts of just arms or just heads. Try some improv. Most everyone is good at something but sometimes I’ve had to break out of my own teacher rut to help them find it. If they feel confident and enthusiastic, they learn better.

As far as skipping basic skills go…I have a question. What is your advice on teaching a class with very different skill levels. I have classes where the ages are very much the same, but the levels are not. It seems either, some of the kids just enrolled in dance, were not taught correctly, or are at a different maturity level. My normal thought is, “teach to the most advanced kid and the others will get it.” I have found this is only good for the advanced child(ren). Of course, I do not want to hold anyone back, but I don’t want the others to seem overwhelmed. This is similar to the “No kid left behind” slogan! Any advice?