Ask any 5 year old why they go to ballet class and their immediate answer will probably include the classic pink tutu and the glittery wands!
However, dancing can provide so much more, such as higher confidence and self esteem, both of which are life changing qualities.
Children, of any age, can boost their confidence through both group work and performance.
Group work encourages young people to contribute their ideas through their own stylisation.
They will also learn to support others in their classes with a positive and constructive mindset, boosting their motivation to work hard as well as their ability to establish kind relationships.
Many dance schools also offer performance opportunities from a young age.
For example, Clandon School of Dance, based near Guildford, Surrey, organise a show every 2 years, where every class performs a dance they have worked on, and termly watching weeks, allowing children to showcase their improvements for their parents.
“At CSD, we believe that performing in front of an audience…encourages students to try something new, overcome nerves, and work as a team,” explains Jessica Todd (Principal, Clandon School Dance)
This allows them to normalise presenting work in front of others, a skill essential both in school and work environments.
Dancing also boosts body confidence in children, as they grow to understand their bodies and how they, as individuals, learn.
Learning to coordinate their bodies, moving with confidence and certainty, allows young people to express themselves in everyday life.
Understanding how their brains best take in choreography and how to respond positively to feedback builds confidence in class and in their wider studies.
By embracing neurological differences and supporting how each individual learns, dancing encourages all children to aspire to the same goals.
“We believe that dance is for everyone.
“Our school has developed teaching skills used by our teachers to ensure that neurodivergent students have a variety of methods and tools to reach their potential,” says Jessica Todd (Principal, CSD)
Additionally, with the right teaching, dancing can promote positive body image and the celebration of the beauty of all body shapes.
In conclusion, dance is an incredible medium for young people to confidently express themselves and learn to understand their bodies, whilst building long lasting relationships and a lifelong love of performance.
