Here is the vision statement for our family dance series. Our contra series does not have such a statement (but IMHO it should). Tapestry Family Dance Vision 1. Fun. Dances will be fun! 2. Inclusiveness. Dances are open to all, regardless of age or dancing ability. The smallest children will be welcomed, and dances will be designed to enable them to participate in some fashion. 3. Community. A key purpose of the dance is build community among parents and children and to create interconnections between younger dancers and the contra dance community. Dances and activities will be designed to foster shared experiences and interactions. 4. Familiarity. The dances presented will be similar each month, with a number of core dances being repeated frequently. Children should be able to request favorites and callers should (most of the time) be familiar with the dances requested because they will be working from a common repertoire. 5. Safety. Dancers must be safe. Grown-ups are required to remain with the children they are supervising. Children should not be swung off their feet by grown-ups; grownups should not attempt to dance with others while carrying children on their shoulders. All snack food provided should be clearly labeled with ingredients for those with allergies. 6. Development. Over time, young dancers who come regularly should gradually learn key dance skills: a. Distinguishing between different sections of music b. Dancing in harmony with those around them c. Anticipating upcoming dance moves without dancing them prematurely d. Calmly and good-naturedly resolving mistakes or confusion e. Comfortably dancing with a variety of partners f. Young dancers interested in calling or playing music will be mentored to the extent possible Callers will not expect young dancers to come with these skills or to master them instantly. Any dance may involve young dancers at many different levels of development. David St Paul, MN