Dance is a fun way to exercise your body and reduce your stress levels. Even if you have never danced before, attending regular classes can help you to feel better about yourself and forget your worries for an hour each week. In addition, dancing is known to release endorphins in your brain that help you to feel happier and more relaxed.
When planning your dance lessons it is important to consider all aspects of the class, from an effective opening ritual to a well-rounded warm up. In addition, it is important to vary the type of movement and focus on both locomotor and nonlocomotor skills. While some dance forms have codified class sequences – think ballet: barre, center practice, turns and allegro – you can create a unique class sequence that works for your students and learning goals.
A dance lesson begins with a warm-up and an introduction of the day’s dance concept. Then, dancers explore the dance concept through movement combinations that include steps, shapes, and improvisation. Dancers also engage their vestibular system by moving over, under, around, through, and on objects such as cones, spots, and hula hoops.
In the final lesson students work together to choreograph a dance that celebrates the freedom to be themselves. Students investigate personal narratives, poems, stories, and visual arts to inform their dances. They will share their dances with the class and school community.
