If you are a teacher giving dance lessons to very young children, it is important to have a plan for each class. Otherwise, it’s all too easy for the lesson to quickly descend into chaos, as each of the young dancers does their own thing instead of listening to her instructor. Here are some games that are fun for preschoolers, but can keep them dancing and learning at the same time.
Why games during dance classes?
Playing during dance classes is above all fun! Young children who have fun during class are more likely to continue their studies and become long-term students at their dance school. Children will develop a love of dance, but these diversions can also help foster a sense of teamwork among your students. In addition, they can help shy children overcome fears of dancing in front of a group, something that is vitally important if you plan to have your dancers perform in a recital.
Simon says
Simon Says is fun and easy even for very young children. If you don’t remember how to play it, it’s simple. Stand at the front of the class and ask the children to copy your movements each time you say ‘Simon says’. Use simple dance steps and ballet positions, and be sure to tell children what the moves are called as you perform them. They may not remember what the moves are called from week to week, but you will reinforce the moves and their names so eventually the children will know what they are called during dance lessons.
To freeze!
Another fun game is Freeze! In this game, a teacher can play fun and upbeat music and let the kids move however they want. Once the music stops, the kids freeze in whatever position they are in. At this point, the teacher can approach individual students and correct any form or point out students who have the correct form and positioning.
red light, green light
Although this game is usually reserved for children playing on a playground, it is easy to adapt it to dance lessons. Call out moves for your students and change them until a designated student says ‘red light’. Once the ‘red light’ has been called, the instructors can walk up to the students and make sure they are doing the moves correctly and then the ‘green light’ can be called again. Students can take turns yelling ‘red light’ until everyone has a chance.
Other games to play during dance lessons
There are many other games that children can play during their classes. These fun games can include Hokey Pokey, Musical Chairs, Follow the Leader, and many others. However, don’t limit yourself to the games you already know. Consider creating your own and even ask your students what they would like to play. You may be surprised at what they come up with and how much fun they have while learning.