to stop the kids doing dancing class.

[ditavonteesed]

Cant really afford it, or at least we can stretch to it but it means putting nothing in the savings, having a shorter holiday and generally struggling. I know it is the right thing to do but I am feeling guilty.

dd1 is not really bothered either way, dd2 dors really enjoy dancing, they have recently started rainbows and brownies so it is not like they are doing nothing.

I think you'll find the whole country is in the same dilemma. Well, not necessarily dancing lessons, but something else.

I don't know anyone who isn't cutting back in some respect.

You can get dance DVDs on ebay pretty cheap so they can do their dancing at home or even make up their own dances.

Most schools have a dance/drama group - get them involved in that (it'll be free at point of use!). If they are looking to take GCSEs soon, the participation will help if they are taking these as option subjects.

They can always pick it up again later on , maybe find the odd holiday workshop if you can afford it then.

We have been in this situation recently and dropped brownies rather than dance classes. Also, it depends what kind of dance it is. If it is ballet, it is more difficult if you have to pick it up again later. Dancing is also a useful skill to have in later life at social events.

Having said that, DD is now talking about dropping some of her dance classes, because ballet and jazz get more difficult as you move up through the classes. If your DD1 is not that bothered about it now, she is unlikely to want to carry on when she is older anyway.