1. Start with personal alignment

Before teaching, check in with yourself. Shaun chooses music that emotionally resonates with him and choreographs in his kitchen—a space where he feels comfortable and inspired.

“If I’m not feeling good, I can’t take the movement anywhere. I need to be connected first.”

Try this: Create in a space that makes you feel grounded. Let your music and movement come from a place of emotion or intention—not pressure.

2. Set clear expectations up front

Before class begins, Shaun always takes a moment to explain what students can expect. He invites openness and emphasizes commitment.

“I tell them, ‘This is gonna be a little different. But I ask you to be open, to be willing, and to commit to what we’re doing today.’”

Try this: Open with a brief talk before class begins. Let students know the vibe, what they'll be learning, and how you'd like them to approach the experience.

3. Read the room before teaching

Instead of jumping into instruction, Shaun takes time to observe his students. He watches for body language, eye contact, and energy levels.

Try this: Before you cue the first count, scan the room. Are students engaged? Do they need warming up—physically or mentally?

4. Teach choreography as a framework

Shaun teaches larger chunks of choreography first, so students get used to the structure. Then he invites personal interpretation.

“At the end of class, I don’t want you to look like me. We’re using my choreography to help you find yourself.”

Try this: Don’t just drill steps—guide students to make choices within the choreography. Emphasize expression over replication.

5. Prioritize group connection

Shaun uses circle warm-ups, encourages feedback, and invites students to watch and learn from each other.

“Choice is what makes you an artist. And everyone in here is making their own choices.”

Try this: Build reflection and observation into your class. Ask students what they noticed in others. Use dialogue as a teaching tool.

6. Demonstrate with purpose

Shaun performs at the end of class not to show off—but to give back.

“They gave to me all class—their energy, their vulnerability. Demonstrating is how I return that exchange.”

Try this: Use your demo as a moment of gratitude and inspiration. Show students how you connect with the same movement in your own way.

7. Continue connection after class

Shaun doesn’t end his class when the music stops. He talks to students, answers questions, and reflects.

Try this: Be available after class. That extra 5–10 minutes of conversation can create lasting impact.

Final thoughts

Shaun Evaristo teaches us that great teaching is rooted in exchange. It’s not just about steps or technique—it’s about presence, care, and shared growth.

“I’m still a student. I’ve mastered parts of myself, but the moment I feel like I’ve got it all figured out, I realize—I haven’t. The thing I’ve really mastered is staying open.”

Whether you’re building your teaching identity or refining your style, these steps are a place to start.

Watch the full episode of How to Be a Better Dance Teacher now on STEEZY’s YouTube. Then challenge yourself with the Teaching Dance Challenge on the STEEZY app.

‍