As a child grows, they need to be exposed to a variety of different experiences. Physical movement and exploring lots of different sports and activities is a good way to support your child's developing brain and help them to build valuable skills. Dancing is an excellent choice for your child to experiment with as the combination of music, movement and skill learning provides support for language acquisition, rhythm, physical development and a positive mood.
Movement and Child Development
All kinds of movement are vital for healthy child development as movement and exercise helps a child to develop their senses, balance, perception, muscles and cardiovascular system. Children from ages 3–5 are recommended to have a minimum of 180 minutes a day of physical activity. This should include as much as 60 minutes of high-energy activity, including jumping, kicking, throwing and running. Dancing can be a part of this high-energy activity to contribute to your child's daily exercise requirements.
In addition, studies have shown that when a child is actively playing, they are more likely to remember information and pay attention in a calm, emotionally-balanced way. The parts of the brain that become active while dancing includes the portions responsible for motor control and hand-eye coordination. When these areas are stimulated as a child is developing, it can help them to build a greater number of connections in these parts of the brain at a critical time.
How to Choose a Good Class
There are a number of factors that go into choosing a good dance class, particularly if your child is younger and will need more guidance and support to participate in the class. First, consider whether the class is one in which the child is dropped off by the parent, or if it is a class in which the parent stays with the child to support them. If your child is younger, ensure that the class provides a good lead-in time for your child to get used to being there without you. Second, consider how intensive the dance class is. For older children, a structured environment is more tolerable, but young children need to learn about dance in a free and playful way with lots of variety and fun incorporated into the class.
Dance classes are an excellent way to expand the learning environment of your child and to contribute to their overall development as they grow. Dancing and movement contribute to additional brain growth and can support greater academic success later in their education.
Take these points into consideration as you look for dance classes for your children.