Moves Worth Sharing, Boundaries Worth Keeping: Social Media Tips for Dancers

💠 Set your boundaries and stay safe

Think of social media like a digital stage of sorts - YOU get to choose what people see, how close they get, and who gets a "backstage pass". Sadly, there are people online who deliberately seek out younger users (especially dancers because of costumes/poses/etc.) who may seem harmless at first, but whose intentions are NOT. While it's wonderful to share your journey, your safety ALWAYS comes first - and it is a strength to protect your space. Here are some tips to protect your privacy and stay safe online:

1. Avoid tagging your location in real time. Wait until after you’ve left a studio or event to post, or skip tagging altogether. This helps protect your physical privacy and keeps your routines unpredictable to others.
2. Curate Your Comments. If someone comments inappropriately—or even just gives you a weird vibe—you’re allowed to delete it, block them, or restrict access. This is your space. You’re not being “dramatic,” you’re being smart.
3. Watch for Red Flags in DMs. Anyone asking questions or leaving comments in your DMs that make you uncomfortable needs to be blocked and reported—immediately. Trust your instincts. Do not respond - tell a parent or trusted adult immediately.

💠 Use strong privacy settings and watch for fake or unsafe profiles

Keeping your account private—or at least limiting who can comment and DM you—is a great first step in protecting your space online. Even if your account is public, you still have control over who gets to interact with you. Be especially cautious about new followers or message requests from people you don’t know personally. Not everyone online is who they say they are. If something feels off, it probably is. Trust your gut, don’t engage, and block or report the account. Watch for these red flags:

1. Their account has very few posts or followers, but they follow hundreds or thousands of people.
2. Their profile has no real photos—just memes, stock images, or pictures that seem too “model-like” or generic.
3. They send unsolicited messages, especially compliments that feel overly personal, flirty, or too intense for someone you don’t know.
4. Their messages include weird or vague language like “you’re mature for your age,” “you should be a model,” or “DM me for an opportunity.”
5. They ask personal questions (like where you dance, go to school, or live) right away—or try to move the conversation to another app quickly.
6. They have inconsistent details, like a name that doesn’t match their username, or stories/highlights that don’t add up.
7. You just get a weird feeling. That instinct is enough. You don’t need proof to protect yourself.

💠 Use Your Platform with Purpose

Every post, comment, or story you share becomes part of your online footprint - a lasting trail of content that can shape how others see you and, more importantly, how you see yourself. Even if you delete something later, screenshots, shares, or archived versions can still exist. So, before you post, comment, or share...pause...

1. Ask yourself: Does this reflect who I am as an artist, teammate, and person?
2. Promote positive content: As dancers, you have the power to influence others through your social media platforms. Use that power to spread positivity, inspiration, and encouragement. Share uplifting content, celebrate the achievements of fellow dancers, and support the dance community as a whole.
3. Mindful Engagement: Social media can be a double-edged sword, with its potential for both positive and negative interactions. Practice mindful engagement by being selective about the content you consume and the conversations you participate in. Surround yourself with accounts that inspire and uplift you. Engage in meaningful discussions, but steer clear of online drama and negativity. Remember, your digital footprint is a reflection of who you are, so choose your interactions wisely.

💠 Embrace your authenticity

Authenticity is the foundation of responsible social media use. As dancers, your unique voice, experiences, and journey are what make you special. Embrace your authenticity and let it shine through your social media presence. Share your true self, celebrate your accomplishments, and be open about your challenges. By being authentic, you will attract a genuine and engaged audience who appreciates and connects with your story.

💠 Ethical use of content

When sharing content on social media, it's crucial to respect intellectual property and give credit where it's due. If you use someone else's choreography, music, or any other creative work (including photography 📷), be sure to credit the original creator. Respect copyright laws and seek permission when necessary. By practicing ethical use of content, you uphold integrity and foster a culture of respect within the dance community.

💠 Balance and self-care

Social media can be addictive, leading to excessive screen time and a potential impact on your mental health and well-being. It's essential to establish a healthy balance between your online and offline life. Set boundaries around your social media usage, take regular breaks, and prioritize self-care. Engage in activities that nourish your mind, body, and soul outside of the digital realm. By maintaining balance and self-care, you can use social media in a way that enhances rather than detracts from your dance journey.