Benefits of Dance For Children
Do you wish your child was more active?
Wouldn’t it be nice to find an activity that encouraged physical movement as well as an opportunity to interact with friends?
Have you considered enrolling your child in dance?
There are several benefits for children of all abilities to participate in a formal dance program.
PHYSICAL BENEFITS:
Exercise!
It’s good for cardiovascular health
Releases endorphins which are the “feel good” hormones
It builds muscle strength and endurance
It improves flexibility
It improves their posture
It improves their balance
EMOTIONAL BENEFITS:
It provides the child with a way to express themselves, which is sometimes difficult for children with exceptional needs
It develops a sense of teamwork and acceptance of others with varying abilities
It teaches respect as you follow directions from the instructor
It builds confidence
They learn persistence... to not give up!
COGNITIVE BENEFITS:
It improves their spatial awareness
The rhythm improves neurotiming which improves brain function and attention
They sleep better and therefore are better able to focus at school
Research has shown that kids increase their performance on developmental tests (fine motor and gross motor) after participating in structured dance classes
And most of all… IT’S FUN!
If you’re considering enrolling your child in dance, here are a list of local exceptional needs dance programs:
If you have additional questions regarding dance or physical movement for your child’s developmental stage, please contact our physical therapist at susan@collaborativecorner.org.
Susan Robins, PT
Pediatric Physical Therapist
susan@collaborativecorner.org