Curriculum

JDW Cotillion instructors are dedicated to convincing students that how they act is not only a reflection of their character, it is also a demonstration of their education. Having an education in social skills is just as important as any academic subject that students will ever take. Because wherever one goes, whatever one does, whoever one meets – social skills are essential for establishing successful relationships.

Students learn a wide range of traditional, Latin and contemporary dances. The program emphasizes that dance is not only a form of entertainment, an art, a humanity, and an inherent part of our culture – it is also a sport that involves athletic ability, coordination, timing, and teamwork. In addition it is one of the best tools to break down physical inhibitions, instill confidence, and develop mutual respect in a structured, healthy environment.

Please note: classes are progressive from year to year and instructors work with the students based on their individual learning curves. New students will find it easy to adapt to any level and extra help is always available.

COTILLION

Cotillion is the foundation for learning important social skills through dance. These classes provide the basis for students to feel confident and comfortable in social situations.  Refining and practicing good manners, at this influential age, offers immediate rewards.

Social Skills: Introduction to Social Skills           Greetings & Introductions  Respect & Consideration   Which Comes First? Listening or Talking? Courtesy Challenge 101 Table Etiquette & Table Manners

Dance Education: Foxtrot     Waltz Swing Hustle            Heel Toe Polka & Polish Polka                       La Raspa & Other Folk Dances

CLUB COTILLION

Club Cotillion is designed to reinforce and advance the skills learned in Cotillion.  In addition, these classes demonstrate how social skills contribute to character, improve communication, and develop positive relationships. Subjects include:

Social Skills: Why Social Skills Matter     First Impressions & Introductions Posture & Body Language Communication 101                       Phoning, Texting & Emailing        Courtesy Challenge                        Table Manners & Table Etiquette – Host & Guest

Dance Education: Foxtrot & Variations Waltz & Variations Swing Hustle & Variation Cha Cha  Merengue  Tango Basics  Line & Folk Dances

SEE – Survival Etiquette Essentials

SEE is an advanced course designed to help our older students recognize that social skills are not only instrumental in developing positive relationships, defining character and facing personal challenges – they are also a necessity for achieving success and opening doors of opportunity in high school, college and future career situations. For further information go to SEE.

Social Skills: The Power of Social Skills – Your Future First Impressions that Last a Lifetime Communication – Verbal & Non-verbal  Appearance & Dress Character & Ethics  Making Choices & Decisions Telephone, Email & Texting Etiquette     Dining Etiquette – Home, Guest & Restaurant

Dance Education: Foxtrot & Variations Waltz & Variations Jitterbug & Variations Cha Cha & Variations Tango & Variations Mambo & Variations Samba & Variations Line Dancing

Note: Many SEE programs also include a Dinner Dance.