Ottawa Contra is working on a 1-pg handout to give to first time dancers.  The goal of the handout is to provide tidbits that will help convince first timers  to come back, that contra's accessible/they can be successful/climb that learning curve, and that contra's a great fit for them.  Who knows if the handout will actually work but we want to try as part of our focus on increasing the retention of all the beginners we get.

I have a few examples of other handouts but they often focus on explaining the specific moves. 

We're thinking more along things that speak to the spirit of contra/are inspiring PLLLUS great technical tips (nuggets!) that can make a huge different to their experience as beginners. Things for them to reflect on and absorb.  

If you have any ideas, please pass them along. They may be little messages you feel every beginner should know, or even tips you you've heard callers provide in beginner/intro lesson before the actual dance.

I've heard some real nuggets in the past but they don't stay in my brain and I think their hard for beginners to absorb as well!

With much thanks :)

Emily Addison in Ottawa ON