The One Thing I Almost Forgot at a Dance Competition (And How to Avoid It)

Dance Competition season is officially here, and this past weekend, my dancer had her first performance of the season. Everything seemed perfect—bags packed, costume ready, checklist checked and triple-checked.

Before we even got five minutes from our house, I was verbally going over our costume checklist with my dancer.

All was good! 👍🏾

But then, in the middle of setting up at the venue the next day, I realized I forgot the one thing I thought I had 100% covered—her costume hat.

Cue the panic!

My husband had dropped off my daughter and I at the dance competition venue and taken our son back to the hotel until closer to the first performance.

I was busy setting up our gear in the dressing room, relieved that I hadn't misplaced or forgotten anything… until it hit me.

I had gotten out of the car without checking to make sure my daughter had grabbed her hat. Sure enough, it was still there in the car, back at the hotel.

Frantic phone call. Husband on his way. Crisis mode activated.

Thankfully, our hotel was only 10 minutes away, and he made it back in plenty of time. But it was a solid reminder:

No matter how prepared you are at the next dance competition, something can still slip through the cracks.

Here’s what I’ve learned the hard way (so you don’t have to):

Even when you think you’ve thought of everything, always do a final check once you’re settled at the venue. It’s easy to get caught up in the excitement, and when you’re juggling multiple performances, setting up costumes, and handling last-minute details, something small can slip your mind.

How to Avoid This Mistake:

✅ Make a final sweep: Once you’re set up and unpacked, take 5 minutes to double-check everything—costumes, shoes, accessories, and even the little things like hairpins… or major things like a hat.

💡 PRO TIP: Keep a laminated checklist in your dance bag and review it before you settle in. (Thinking about making one? I’ve got you covered—grab a free printable checklist here!)

✅ Pack backups: Always have at least one spare accessory or item (of the things you can). You never know when it might save the day.

✅ Stay calm: Stuff happens. Even if something goes wrong, you’ll figure it out. And your dancer will still shine! ✨

The takeaway?

Be overprepared, but also check again.

When you’re on top of the details, there’s less stress and more confidence when it’s time for your dancer to hit the stage.

Your turn!

Do you have any dance mom survival stories? Share yours in the comments—I’d love to hear what you’ve learned along the way!