Several times in the past few weeks, I don't have just one parent watching their kid, but multiple siblings, both parents, grandparents and random aunts or uncles. It is beyond distracting and they are loud! I also feel like I'm being constantly judged and putting on a show for them. They film me and I don't know what happens after that. I mainly teach at a rec center and some of these classes have been ongoing for about a year but are picking up steam and becoming more popular.
I feel like it's a little late to suddenly say, "no parents" - there are chairs in the studio and a big glass door and I feel like if they waited outside and watched, it'd be more of a distraction with kids constantly running in and out.
I am also worried about losing students if I set a new policy like this because so many parents here are helicopters and frankly, I get paid by the student a dismal $5/head.
I guess I can send out an email with some recommendations, reasons, and best practices but most of them don't read email. I am just seeking advice from people who may have had to handle this before.
Thank you!