Questions families actually ask.

The most common questions we get from new and returning families — ages, dress code, missed classes, the recital, snow days, and registration. Don’t see your question? Email info@cafferys.net — we reply within one business day.

01

What age can my child start?

Three years old. Our preschool classes — Tap & Ballet (30 min), the Combination class with tap, ballet, and gymnastics (1 hour), and Preschool Gymnastics (45 min) — are all designed for ages 3–5. See the preschool program →

02

My child is shy. Can I be in the room?

Yes — if your dancer is nervous, parents are welcome to come in and dance or do gymnastics alongside them to make them more comfortable. Most kids settle in within a couple of weeks and prefer to do it on their own.

03

Is there a dress code?

Recreational classes don’t require a specific style of dancewear, but leotards, tights, and proper footwear are required. Long hair must always be in a ponytail or a bun. The full per-program shoe and attire list is on the dress code page. See dress code →

04

Will my 5-year-old be in a class with an 11-year-old beginner?

No — students are grouped by both age and skill level. A 5-year-old beginner will only be placed with similarly-aged dancers, regardless of where the level starts.

05

How many students are in a class?

Preschool classes have 10–12 students with multiple instructors. Gymnastics classes have 12–15 students with coaches and assistants at three stations. All other classes are 10–12 students with one teacher and an assistant.

06

Who teaches the classes?

At Caffery’s, your child will not have a teenage instructor. Every teacher on our faculty trains for 2 years under Ms. Lindsay before they teach a class independently. Meet the team →

07

Is there a contract?

No long-term contract — commitment is 4 weeks minimum. To stop billing, send a written email; phone messages aren’t accepted as withdrawal. Payments are due monthly through the Parent Portal.

08

What if we miss a class?

Up to 3 make-up classes per dancer per season, scheduled by email to info@cafferys.net. There are no pro-rated fees for missed classes due to illness, vacation, or holiday breaks, and no refunds for missed classes — that’s why make-ups exist.

09

Is the June recital required?

No. The June recital and gymnastics show are the season’s finale and most dancers participate, but participation is not mandatory. Tell us by January if your dancer is opting out and we’ll skip the costume fee.

10

What about snow days?

We close when driving conditions are unsafe or when Middletown schools dismiss early. Evening classes that start after 3:30pm may still run — check the Parent Portal or our socials before heading out. There are no refunds for weather closures, but you can use one of your make-ups.

11

Where do parents wait during class?

There’s a parents’ waiting area in the lobby. The waiting room is available to parents during preschool and petite classes; parents of older students are welcome to observe initially, then drop off and pick up at the front door once routines are established. No food in the waiting area; water only in the dance and gym rooms.

12

Is there a registration fee?

Yes — $35 for the first child, $15 for each sibling, capped at $65 per family per season. Due with your first month’s tuition on August 15. See full tuition →

13

I’m transferring from another studio. Do you honor years already danced?

Yes — we honor 5th, 10th, and 15th-year awards earned at other schools. Bring your previous studio’s confirmation and we’ll fold it into your dancer’s recital recognition.

14

Where are you located?

140-5 Main Street, Metro Square, Middletown, CT 06457. Map & directions →

Still have a question?

The front desk is one email away.

Email info@cafferys.net — we reply within one business day. For anything urgent, call (860) 346-5678 during office hours.