Dancing has always been a popular activity for kids, both girls and boys. There’s very little equipment needed to get started, it can be practised at home with friends or alone and there are many inspiring dancers to look up to. But there’s more than just the fun of it when a parent looks at the benefits of dancing – one example is how it supports your child’s growth.
Why dancing is so positive for kids
There are lots of positives that come from a child learning dance. Children naturally pick up how to move in rhythm to music but the better they are at this, the more they can stay in shape. Swinging your hips is good but learning to dance properly is far better!
Dance classes are also an excellent way to learn discipline. Children have to go through routines such as stretching to warm up for the dance which helps with discipline but also with physical fitness. Studies have shown that dancing is great for cardiovascular health.
While we don’t want to think of our kids as stressed, this can happen and dance is a proven way to ease stress and to help kids unwind. This becomes especially important as they get older and the pressure of exams is looming.
How dance helps a child’s growth
There are also a number of specific benefits that help children grow and develop that they can receive from dancing.
Improved creativity
Dancing is a great way to boost creativity and imagination. Dancing allows you to express yourself in the way you move to the music and allows children to express themselves in this way.
Not only that but much dance has a story and this means imagining themselves in that story, being someone different to who they are. This helps with imagination and creative thinking.
Better social skills
Dancing helps children make friends and have a shared interest with others that can lead to bonds that last a lifetime. Dance lessons are an ideal place to get to know other children and often kids that aren’t from the same school. Learning to socialise with others is also a big part of dance lessons as everyone has to work together.
Stimulate memory development
Children need stimulation in order to develop and this includes their memory. Dance is a great way to help with this as they need to remember the steps in order to complete the dances. Dancing helps with procedural memory or the type of memory that relates to gestures and movements.
Boost self-confidence
Children who dance are often more self-confident and sure of themselves because they learn this as part of their dancing skills. It also helps to overcome things like shyness because you need to be able to go on stage and perform.
Help with growth and school results
Studies have shown that not only does dance help with a range of physical and mental benefits but also that it can help children do better in school. From better concentration and more self-confidence to learning things better and being physically stronger, dance has so many benefits for children.