Introducing Your Child to the Arts: Making Art Through Movement (continued)

• The elements of dance movement. Dance, like physics, involves the motion and energy of bodies in time and space. Bodies move in rhythms and through space in a variety of directions. They make shapes and designs. Children learn to use these elements of dance with intent and purposeful communication.
• Learning about the body, anatomy, and alignment. The body is the instrument of dance and must be kept in tune. Knowing how the body is organized and aligned is important so that the body can move healthfully and efficiently.
• Creative movement. Much can be learned through a process of creative problem solving in movement. In this approach, children use the higher-level thought processes of analysis, synthesis, comparison, and evaluation. Children learn to make aesthetic movement choices and to choreograph dances with form, structure, and meaning.
• Dance technique. Physical exercises are essential in dance. Each dance style has its unique techniques and skills. Acquiring a high level of dance technique can take many years, depending on the dance form. Care must be taken that it is taught in a graduated sequence that is age- and ability-appropriate.

Dance class for the young child should focus on creativity, problem solving, and movement possibilities. Children will discover a personal preference for movement patterns and styles as well as an appreciation for their personal space.

Educator and teacher organizations increasingly recognize creative movement as integral to children’s development, and there are a number of exemplary dance education programs in elementary schools. Parents and teachers should evaluate dance programs to be assured that they address children’s physical, emotional, social, and intellectual development, and that they are age-appropriate, artistic programs. The following information will help you review the dance instruction in your local school, private studio, or other setting.

Learn About a Program and its Instructors Before Enrolling Your Child

Ask the following questions about teachers and classes before enrolling your child:

• Can I observe the first class?
• Is the school/studio giving the young children’s classes to the inexperienced teachers, or do they understand the expertise and knowledge necessary for teaching young children well? Is the  teacher trained and qualified?
• Does the teacher seem aware of the physical, emotional, and social developmental needs of the students? Are each student’s abilities and goals being supported?
• Does the teacher seem enthusiastic about the class? Is the class imaginative and varied in its approach to the material?
• Does the teacher have a good understanding of human anatomy and proper alignment and use of the body? Does the teacher effectively communicate his or her knowledge?
• Are the students grouped according to age, ability, and social development? Are class size and duration appropriate for the age group?
• Does the class provide satisfaction and enjoyment? Does the teacher give time for movement exploration? Is required attire appropriate and comfortable?

Visit Facilities as Part of Your Evaluation of Programs

A good studio environment for classes offers the following: