How to Get More Referrals for Your Preschool Dance Program

When it comes to filling your preschool dance classes, few strategies are as powerful—or as cost-effective—as good old-fashioned word of mouth. But how do you actually encourage referrals in a consistent, organic way?

Let’s take a closer look at how referrals really happen (especially in the preschool market), and what you can do to make your program naturally share-worthy.

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👉 How to Get More Referrals for Your Preschool Dance Program

Parents Are Already Talking—You Just Need to Join the Conversation

The good news? Preschool parents are already talking about their kids’ activities—all the time. Whether they’re waiting in the school pickup line, chatting at the playground, or mingling at birthday parties, one of the most common topics is: “What activities is your child doing?”

If one of your current studio parents is part of that conversation, a referral can happen instantly—without you lifting a finger.

But here’s the catch: That only works if the other parent is already thinking about dance. If they’re looking for music, soccer, or gymnastics, dance might not be on their radar—yet.

That’s why it’s so important to create shareable moments that naturally invite curiosity and conversation.

Be Share-Worthy: Create Moments Parents Want to Share

Preschool parents love capturing adorable moments. So why not create more of them?

Here are a few simple ways to make your classes more share-worthy:

• In-Class Performances – Invite parents in for a mini showcase or skill demo.
• Costume Try-On Days – Let kids try on recital costumes and invite parents to snap photos.
• Award Certificates – Celebrate milestones with a quick “award moment” parents can capture.
• Lobby Showcases – Bring kids out to the lobby at the end of class to perform a short routine or show off their new moves.

Anytime you do this, phones come out. Cameras click. Videos get posted. And naturally, friends and family ask, “Where does she take dance?”

That’s a referral—without anyone having to “ask for one.”

Don’t Forget Special Events

Two more fantastic ways to generate referrals:

• Bring-a-Friend Week – Let current students invite a friend to class.
• Birthday Parties – Offer studio-hosted birthday parties with dancing and fun themes.

Both of these events give your current families a reason to invite others into your studio, while giving prospective families a no-pressure way to experience your program.

P.S. I go into more detail on referral events and birthday parties in other posts—be sure to check those out for even more ideas!

Want an Easy Way to Create Your Own Share-Worthy Class?

My Bake Shop-themed Preschool Lesson Plan Kit is the perfect way to create an irresistible, camera-ready class that parents will love sharing.

🍰 It’s fun, imaginative, and packed with activities designed to keep your tiniest dancers engaged and smiling.

🎀 You’ll get everything you need to bring this sweet theme to life—without spending hours on prep.

✨ Grab your free sample lesson plan today and create your next share-worthy moment!

👉 Click here to download your free Bake Shop lesson plan sample now!