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(Unit 2) Topic 7: Music and Movement

2 Clock Hours of Early Childhood Education

Don’t Stop Believin'

Topic 7 Page 14

As with other forms of artistic expression, dance can build a child’s self-esteem and confidence.

Through dance and movement there are many opportunities to do this. Building teamwork skills, trying new things, having fun, getting positive feedback and many other things will build confidence in children. The key is to surround the activity in positive and encouraging layers and allow children room to express their creativity and explore movement and dance.

What’s in a name?
Encourage children to learn other children’s names during dance or movement activities. This gives each child a bit of recognition throughout the activity and can build their confidence when a compliment is directed at them.

Make it accessible.
Not every child will want to dance, and that is okay. Let them express themselves in a different way. Add props, scarves, or rhythm sticks for these children or allow them to participate in a different way. Allowing them the opportunity to find their niche will let them excel at something they’re comfortable with and build confidence.

How do you feel?
Encourage children to express their feelings about the activity and never brush them aside. Children may love or hate the dance and movement activity and it is important to respect their feelings. Keep an open mind and be flexible.

Lead by example.
Compliment and encourage students and only use positive words. Children will see this and follow your lead when interacting with their peers.

Avoid labels.
Dance is not just for girls. Yoga is not for adults only. Diminish the use of labels that come with preconceived notions about an activity.

Give them freedom.
Give wary or nervous children some space to have freedom of choice with their movement activities. While structured movement and dance is important, always give children a period of time to freely express themselves.