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POINTEWORK INFORMATION

Many parents and students are confused as to the school's policy regarding "pointework". Although, if and when a child "goes on her toes" requires individual consideration, we offer the following information.

Children in the same age group vary enormously in weight, strength, aptitude and physical requirements. The teacher's opinion must govern the timing for the start of pointework.

An important requisite for pointework is good co-ordination of the whole body, each part adapting correctly without strain to any new position without losing the "placing". In addition to correct body posture the structure of each student's foot must be considered. It is inadvisable to place children on pointe whose feet are either weak, low in the instep, or with an elongated big toe-since it places undue stress on the knees and spine to compensate for these problems. Podiatrists state that the ossification (bone development) of the bones of the foot starts with the bones of the heel. The toe bones are one of the last groups to be developed. At age 10 (approx. minimum pointework age) there is a definite bone formation, although not complete, in the first metatarsal and the big toe joint and the heel bones are well developed which means arch structure can readily adapt itself in supporting the foot properly. To start pointework at 10 years the child must have had a very concentrated study in ballet in addition to necessary physical requirements.

It has been our experience that for children to do pointework, a minimum of 2 ballet classes per week is required to provide the strength through the hips, back and abdominal muscles. Children doing 2 ballet classes a week usually begin pointework between ages 12-14 years.

Regardless of the number of years of training, number of classes per week or age, some students should not attempt pointework, but are still able to enjoy a full dance study. Pointework is not compulsory. It is a separate lesson and has no bearing of regular class work progress. Parents should be aware of the current cost of pointe shoes and supplies and realize replacements may also be needed during the season.