At Cabe Academy, we believe in aiming high and dreaming big. Goals should be ambitious enough to push you out of your comfort zone but achievable through determination, planning, and consistency. Our "Big Goal Framework" is designed to help students translate their dreams into actionable steps.

The Framework for Success

1. Big Goal
   Your big goal is your ultimate ambition. It's the vision of where you want to be — whether it's mastering a complex dance routine, qualifying for the World Championships, or excelling in a new skill. It's meant to inspire and challenge you, not to be easily within reach.
2. Medium-Term Goals
   These are the 3–6 essential milestones needed to turn your big goal into reality. For example, mastering specific techniques, increasing your fitness level, or participating in a set number of competitions. These are achievable in months and keep you steadily moving toward your big goal.
3. Daily Rituals
   Your daily rituals are the small, consistent actions you take every day to build momentum. These could include a focused 15-minute practice session, reviewing feedback from your instructor, or stretching and conditioning exercises. These seemingly small steps are the foundation of your progress.

1. Consistent Presence – The Foundation of Progress
An essential building block for success in Irish dance is consistent attendance. Your physical and mental presence in each class is crucial for growth. Consider every session as a rehearsal for a grand performance. Punctuality and regularity aren't mere formalities; they are the bedrock upon which improvement is constructed. By consistently showing up, you create an environment for refining your skills, acquiring new techniques, and absorbing the insights of your instructors. You can't be disappointed at the next feis if your attendance wasn't good over the preceding months. 


2. Diligent Effort – Elevating Every Movement
Beyond just showing up, the key to excellence in Irish dance lies in wholehearted effort. Treat every dance, every round, and every class as if you're competing on the world stage. Success in Irish dance isn't about going through the motions; it's about investing effort that distinguishes champions. Embrace hard work, refine each step until it shines, and approach each practice session with the intensity of a dancer on the brink of victory. In Irish dance, mediocrity is the adversary – give it your all, and success will inevitably follow.


3. Mindful Focus – The Catalyst for Improvement
Here lies the secret to transformation: focus. Merely being present and working hard isn't enough; you must engage your mind to elevate your performance. Many dancers go through routines without a conscious effort to improve. True champions, on the other hand, enter each class with the intention of making an improvement, however small, before they leave class. 
Challenge yourself to surpass yesterday's performance. Concentrate on the subtleties that make Irish dance an art form. Infuse purpose into every movement, and with each repetition, strive for perfection. Consistently adopting this approach over time leads to an unstoppable trajectory of improvement.


Conclusion: Unleashing Excellence
In the quest for excellence in Irish dance, these three principles – consistent attendance, diligent effort, and mindful focus – act as a transformative guide. When adhered to consistently, they create a compounding effect, propelling dancers to a level that is unparalleled. So, dancers, be present, work diligently, focus mindfully, and let the rhythm of excellence lead you to triumph on the grandest stages.

Introduction
Breaking in new Irish dancing hard shoes can be a crucial step in your dancing journey. However, doing it wrong can lead to painful blisters and lost practice time. In this guide, we'll walk you through some essential do's and don'ts to ensure a comfortable and blister-free experience.

The Do's:

1. Prioritise Blister Prevention
Prevention is the key to success. Avoiding blisters should be your number one objective. Blisters can set you back weeks in practice time, so take every precaution to prevent them.
2. Invest in Blister Socks
Blister socks are a must-have. These specialized socks provide an extra layer of protection for your feet, reducing friction and minimizing the chances of developing blisters. Many advanced dancers swear by them, even when not breaking in new shoes.
3. Wear Poodle Socks
Poodle socks are thick and cushioned, providing added comfort and support for your feet. Avoid wearing thin socks, especially when breaking in new shoes, as they can leave you susceptible to blisters. Remember to always wear your poodle socks.
4. Warm Your Shoes
Before attempting to break in your hard shoes, warm them up by placing them on a radiator or inside a hot press. This softens the material, allowing it to mould to the shape of your feet more easily. Repeat this process several times for best results.
5. Wear Them Around the House
Put on your hard shoes while at home, even if you're not actively practicing. Engage in mundane tasks like watching TV or reading a book. The warmth from your feet will help the shoes adapt to your foot shape, making them increasingly comfortable over time.

The Don'ts:

1. Don't Be a Hero
Pushing through the pain during class may seem like a show of determination, but it's a sure-fire way to develop painful blisters. Remember, it's better to prevent blisters than to deal with the consequences later.
2. Don't Expect Shoes to Break Themselves In
New heavy shoes won't magically become comfortable on their own. You must put in the effort to break them in. Avoid the mistake of wearing them for just a few minutes in class and then asking to switch back to soft shoes. Take action and use the techniques mentioned above to properly break in your hard shoes.

Conclusion
Breaking in Irish dancing hard shoes is a crucial step in your dancing journey. By following these do's and don'ts, you can ensure a comfortable and blister-free experience. Remember, prevention is key, so invest in blister socks, wear poodle socks, warm your shoes, and wear them around the house. Avoid pushing through pain and expecting the shoes to break in themselves. With these tips, you'll be well on your way to dancing comfortably and confidently in your hard shoes.

​​Introduction

Irish dance is a captivating art form that requires dedication, precision, and a mindful approach to practice. While full dance rehearsals have their place, they are not the most effective way to improve your skills. In this guide, we'll delve into the key strategies for productive Irish dance practice, emphasising the importance of focused repetition, proper warm-up, and consistent effort.

• Practice Notes, Not Full Dances

One of the most common mistakes dancers make is neglecting to focus on individual notes. It's essential to break down the dance into its smallest components, honing in on specific steps that need improvement. This deliberate approach allows for targeted practice, ensuring that each movement is executed with precision.

• "Practice Makes Permanent"

Remember, practice doesn't make perfect—it makes permanent. If you're not fully engaged during practice, you risk ingraining bad habits. For example, if you're working on perfecting your turn-out and you're not actively concentrating on it, you may be reinforcing improper technique. Always practice with intention and mindfulness.

• Warm-Up and Stretch

Before diving into your practice session, take the time to warm up your body. This helps prevent injuries and ensures that your muscles are ready for the demands of Irish dance. Dynamic stretches like leg swings and bum kicks can be especially beneficial. Don't forget to stretch after your warm-up to increase flexibility and range of motion.

• Quality Over Quantity

It's tempting to commit to long, extensive practice sessions, but it's often counterproductive. Instead, aim for shorter, more focused practice sessions. Setting aside 15-30 minutes daily to work on specific elements, such as turnout or foot placement, can yield significant improvements over time. Consistency is key.

• Motivation and Consistency

Getting started with practice can be the hardest part. Motivation is crucial, but it's consistency that will drive real progress. Establish a routine and stick to it. Even on days when motivation is lacking, the act of showing up and going through the motions can lead to meaningful advancements in your dance skills.

Conclusion

Mastering Irish dance requires a strategic and disciplined approach to practice. While performing full dances have their place, it's the focused repetition of individual notes that truly refines your technique. Remember, "practice makes permanent," so always be mindful of your form. Don't forget warm-up and stretching to prevent injuries and optimise performance. Opt for shorter, consistent practice sessions over sporadic, lengthy ones. Ultimately, it's the combination of motivation and unwavering consistency that will lead you to become a proficient and graceful Irish dancer. 

Remember: "Without commitment, you'll never start. But more importantly, without consistency, you'll never finish."
~ Denzel Washington 

Participating in an Irish dancing competition, commonly known as a Feis, can be an exhilarating and nerve-wracking experience for both the dancers and their families. The anticipation, the hard work, and the dedication culminate in those few moments on stage, where the results determine the outcome of all the efforts. While some dancers walk away from a Feis beaming with joy, others may find themselves grappling with disappointment and frustration. If you're a parent who has heard your child express disappointment over their Feis results, know that you're not alone in this experience. However, remember that there are valuable lessons to be learned from managing disappointment constructively.


The Initial Upset: A Sign of Caring
It's important to acknowledge the emotions that come with a disappointing outcome. Sometimes, as parents, we might hear our children lament their results and wonder how to provide comfort. While it's natural to want to shield them from any negative emotions, it's also crucial to recognise that their disappointment stems from a place of caring deeply about their performance. The truth is, if a child brushes off a poor result with indifference, it might be indicative of a lack of investment or passion.


Turning Disappointment into Motivation
Disappointment is a powerful motivator. It's a crossroads that offers a choice: either let the disappointment repeat itself or take proactive steps to improve. Encourage your child to view disappointment as a catalyst for growth. Ask them if they want to continue feeling the way they do after a disappointing outcome or if they're ready to take control and work toward better results. This moment of reflection can set the stage for constructive goal-setting and renewed dedication.


Navigating the Emotional Spectrum
It's important to note that not all instances of disappointment are created equal. If your child's disappointment persists for days on end and starts affecting their overall well-being, it might signal a deeper underlying issue that needs addressing. But in most cases, the initial upset after a Feis is a natural reaction that gradually subsides. Give your child the space to process their emotions, and when the time is right, have a conversation about what can be learned from the experience.


The Comparison Conundrum
One common source of disappointment after a Feis is the tendency to compare oneself to friends or fellow dancers. The truth is, each dancer is on their own unique journey, and their progress should be measured against their own growth, not someone else's achievements. Help your child understand that comparing themselves to others can be detrimental to their own development. Encourage them to focus on their own goals and progress, celebrating their achievements regardless of how they stack up against others'.


The Hard Work Equation
Sometimes, disappointment is a result of a mismatch between effort and outcome. If a dancer didn't put in the necessary work and dedication, their disappointment might be a wake-up call. However, it's important to differentiate between genuine effort and unrealistic expectations. If your child has genuinely worked hard, remind them that the path to success is often paved with setbacks and challenges. Emphasise the importance of perseverance and patience.


Embrace Being Upset and Bounce Back
In the grand journey of life, Feis results are just a small part. Encourage your child to embrace their disappointment as a sign of their commitment to their craft. Let them know that getting knocked down is a natural part of growth, but the true test lies in getting back up again. Resilience and determination are qualities that will serve them well beyond the world of Irish dancing.
​

Conclusion
Managing disappointment after a Feis is a valuable life lesson that extends far beyond the realm of dance. It teaches children how to handle setbacks, channel negative emotions into positive actions, and cultivate resilience. As parents, our role is to provide guidance, support, and a safe space for our children to process their emotions. By reframing disappointment as an opportunity for growth, we can help our young dancers emerge from the experience stronger, more motivated, and ready to face the challenges that lie ahead.

Introduction
A first feis, or Irish dance competition, can be an exciting yet nerve-wracking experience for both parents and children alike. It marks a significant milestone in a young dancer's journey, where they get to showcase their hard work and dedication. To help ensure your child's first feis is a positive and enjoyable experience, we have compiled a list of great tips to guide you through this thrilling event.

​
Your Teacher: Your First Port of Call
Before stepping into the world of feiseanna, turn to your child's dance teacher for valuable information. They will have all the essential details about the event, including schedules, venues, costumes, and more. Relying on your teacher for guidance will ensure that you're well-prepared and have everything you need for the day. In case your teacher is unavailable, feis syllabuses and organisers' contact information can be found online to assist you.


Bring Cash for Admission
Be ready to pay a small admission fee, usually around €5 for adults, at the door. It's always best to have cash on hand as some feiseanna might not accept card payments. In some cases, admission fees can be paid in advance during pre-registration.


Essential Items to Bring
Don't forget to pack the necessities for your child's dancing debut:

• Dancing shoes: Ensure they are clean and well-fitted for optimal performance.
• Poodle socks (for girls): An essential part of the Irish dance costume.
• Dancing costume: Double-check that everything is in place, and the costume is in good condition.
• Dancer number: Keep it safe and visible during the entire event.
• Hairband or hair accessories: Secure hair neatly and comfortably for dancing.
• Your smile: Encourage your child to wear a smile, as it adds to the joy of the experience.

Wear Your Teamwear
If your child belongs to a dance school with designated Teamwear, wearing it at the feis can create a sense of camaraderie and support for other fellow dancers from the same school. For Cabe Academy dancers, wear your Malley Sport teamwear. 


Arrive Early
To avoid last-minute stress, aim to arrive at least 30 minutes before your child's scheduled time. This extra time allows for any unexpected delays and gives your child the opportunity to get ready in their dancing shoes and costumes at least 15 minutes before their first performance.


Reminders for Children
Preparing your child mentally for the feis can help alleviate anxiety. Remind them of the following:

• They will dance with children from different schools, doing various dances. Encourage them to focus on their own performance and not get distracted by others.
• Keep listening to the music to stay in sync with the dance routine.
• Above all, remind them to have fun and enjoy the experience.

All Times Are Approximate
While organisers do their best to stick to the schedule, it's common for feiseanna to run slightly behind. Therefore, be prepared for possible delays throughout the day. Nonetheless, ensure you arrive 30 minutes before your child's scheduled time.


Bring Snacks and Activities
To keep your child comfortable during potential waiting times between dances or for results, pack some snacks and small activities like colouring books. These can be a source of entertainment and prevent any impatience.


Manage Expectations: No Trophies Expected
It's essential to manage expectations, especially for a first-time feis. While all participants receive a medal, winning a trophy usually requires more experience and practice. Emphasise to your child that the focus should be on enjoying the experience and celebrating their progress.


No Recording Allowed
Lastly, remember that feiseanna have strict policies regarding video recording or taking pictures while children are dancing on stage. These rules are in place for child safety reasons. However, you are welcome to take pictures during the prize-giving ceremony to capture those precious moments.


Conclusion
A first feis is an unforgettable milestone for any young Irish dancer and their family. By following these tips and preparing well in advance, you can ensure that the experience is positive and enjoyable for everyone involved. Cherish the memories made during this special day, and most importantly, encourage your child to continue pursuing their passion for Irish dance with enthusiasm and determination. With practice and dedication, who knows, they might even come home with a trophy in future feiseanna!

Introduction:
During the lockdown period, many individuals sought solace and engagement through new hobbies. Among these, dancing emerged as a popular choice, with people of all ages turning to online dance classes. While online dance learning offers numerous benefits, it is essential to be aware of both the advantages and challenges before embarking on this journey.


Benefits of Online Dance Learning:

1. Flexibility in Scheduling: One of the significant advantages of learning to dance online is the flexibility it provides. Unlike traditional classes with fixed schedules, online learning allows students to create their own timetables. This freedom ensures that individuals can learn at their own pace and choose the most suitable time to practice, making dance accessible to those with busy lifestyles.
2. Access to Global Instructors: Online platforms break geographical barriers, granting access to the world's best dance instructors. Students can learn from renowned professionals and diverse styles, enriching their dance experience and broadening their understanding of different cultural influences on dance.
3. Cost-Effectiveness: Traditional dance classes often come with additional expenses like transportation and specific dance attire. In contrast, online dance classes can be budget-friendly, as students can practice from the comfort of their homes and wear whatever they prefer. This cost-effectiveness widens the appeal of dance learning to a broader audience.
4. Fostering Independent Thinking: Online dance courses encourage students to think independently and take charge of their learning. When individuals are not overly reliant on instructors, they develop a deeper understanding of the dance techniques and movements, empowering them to progress more efficiently in their dance journey.
   
   
   

Challenges of Online Dance Learning:

1. Self-Motivation: One of the primary challenges in online dance learning is self-motivation. Without the external accountability of attending a physical class, students may face procrastination. To overcome this obstacle, setting personal goals and maintaining a consistent practice schedule is crucial.
2. Reduced Face-to-Face Interaction: Compared to traditional dance classes, online learning may lack face-to-face interaction, which is integral to the social aspects of dance. Although digital platforms often include forums and communities, students must make an effort to connect with fellow dancers and share their experiences.
3. Importance of Technique: Proper technique is fundamental in dance, and when learning online, students must be vigilant about getting the fundamentals right. Addressing minor technique issues becomes more challenging as individuals progress to higher levels, highlighting the importance of a well-structured online course with ample drills and exercises to improve technique.

​Conclusion:
The benefits of learning to dance online are undeniable, offering flexibility, access to top instructors, cost savings, and the fostering of independent thinking. However, potential challenges such as self-motivation, reduced face-to-face interaction, and technique considerations must be acknowledged and addressed by aspiring online dance learners. By understanding both the advantages and challenges, individuals can make informed decisions to embark on a fulfilling and enriching dance learning journey online.