Introducing your child to a variety of activities when they are young is a great way to foster a love of learning and creativity and to discover where their interests are. While there are no shortages of activities to choose from, there are so many positive benefits to be gained by introducing your child to dance at a young age. And while we may be just a tad biased toward the love of dance over other activities, the following benefits for young children in recreational dance are solid!
While your young dancer is:
- Making new friends
- Gaining confidence in their physical and social abilities
- Learning new moves and combinations
- Expressing their creative self
- Taking pride in what they are learning
- And HAVING LOTS OF FUN!…
They are also:
- Learning about how classes are structured and time management
- Practicing listening and following instructions
- Developing increased spatial awareness
- Practicing teamwork and communication – verbal & non-verbal
- Learning how a ‘whole big’ dance is learned in small pieces that you all practice together…
While physically they are:
- Improving their coordination
- Increasing flexibility
- Strengthening muscles not used in normal day to day activities
- Improving their balance
- Increasing endurance
- Boosting their mood
- Flexing their memorization skills
- Channeling all of that energy in a healthy way!
All of the benefits gained will extend beyond dance classes and benefit other activities and sports young children want to explore. They understand that at first – everyone is a beginner, and you learn together. They’ve gained more self confidence in their abilities. And of course, the benefits continue and build even stronger if they continue on taking more dance classes too!
How Do You Know If Your Child Is Ready For Dance Classes?
Little ones who have older siblings or neighbors that are dancers often declare themselves ready for dance class before there are even classes available for their age group! But for those who aren’t exposed to dancing as much, here are a few great suggestions to test the waters and make it a positive experience:
- Try a few shorter-session classes that are often offered in the summer months. It’s a great way to try a new activity without a big commitment. You can check out our Summer Classes here – we’d love to see you!
- Spring and summer is recital season for local dance studios – take your little one to a live show!
- Watch dance videos together – there are so many to choose from out there, from toddler and preschool dance videos, and every age on up! Check out videos from your local dance studio as well!
