& Benefits of dance education last a lifetime
People have always danced. Whether to show emotion, tell a story or just have fun, dance is for everyone.
“I think we are born to dance,” said Chantel Sebastian, owner/director of the Kids Can tDance Studio in Regina. t Dancing involves not just rartistic movement, but also athleticism, individual and group achievements, socializing and learning new skills. And it can start at any time.
“I know many studios, mine included, start as young as age two with creative movement or preschool combination classes. I do believe this is a prime time. The wee ones love to explore and dance to various music. In our studio, they get to explore with tambourines, ribbons, butterfly wings, bubbles, parachutes, and just dance on their own. I believe they thrive in such an environment. However, not all dancers start at such a young age. I think any age that a dancer expresses interest is an optimum age to begin dance. It’s never too late!” said Sebastian.
Benefits of a dance education can be as simple as having fun and meeting new friends. Dancing can teach new skills and strengthen the body. Performing and competing in dance performances can open up local and global travel and broaden minds.
“I believe the main benefits of a dance education include: teamwork, self-discipline, friendships and creating a dance family, memories and physical fitness,” said Sebastian.
Dance classes are as varied as the people who participate in them, and very often reflect the personality and energy level of the participants.
“I think definitely some dancers prefer certain styles over others. High energy dancers tend to gravitate towards jazz, hip hop or tap, whereas dancers who may be more into theatre prefer styles such as musical theatre or character ballet. However, I believe training in a variety of dance styles enhances you as a dancer and a performer as each style adds something different to the dancer and creates an opportunity to be even more wellrounded,” said Sebastian.
Whether it’s ballet, jazz or tap, learning to follow structured steps, or listening to instructions are just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to the benefits of dance education. Dance classes provide an opportunity for dancers to gain knowledge from others; to be taught by qualified instructors with a passion for the dance as well as a consideration for the safety and health of their students.
“Parents should enroll their children in dance because it’s fun and it creates an opportunity for physical fitness and flexibility development. Dance provides the opportunity to work as a team and as an individual, and builds confidence through performance and competition. Dancers can take risks and set challenges and goals for themselves to grow. I believe it also gives the opportunity to showcase and foster growth from year to year,” said Sebastian.
Enrolling children in dance education is a great way to build processes that will benefit them throughout their lives. But people of all ages should be encouraged to find dance classes that fit their lifestyles as well. Adult classes are available in many studios, and the positive results of a dance education, even if a student doesn’t end up pursuing a career in dance, are almost unmeasurable.
“Dance goes so far beyond pursuing a career. In fact, I understand that most people who grow up taking dance don’t end up in a dance career, but they do end up with lifelong skills they learned in the studio. Dance helps kids learn that improvement and learning is more important than winning or being the best. It creates a thirst for wanting to work hard that carries over to any future career. It teaches skills that help with memory and sequencing. Dance encourages working as a team, teaches time management and promotes leadership skills. So while it may not lead to a dance career, it creates great character and work ethic, which benefits all careers,” said Sebastian.
As with any activity, you won’t know if your child is ready for dance education until you try it. There are many different levels, classes and studios in the dance world. There are classes both recreational and competitive, for new dancers and experienced ones. The range of opportunities offers classes that can appeal to anyone.
“I say, go for it! Explore your options and see what the best fit is for your dancer,” said Sebastian.
For more information on bringing dance into your family’s life, call Kids Can Dance at (306) 721-7837 or visit their website at www.kidscandance.ca.