How do you interest 5 to 7 year olds in technique?
This is a request for advice:
I’m teaching ballet and jazz at a local studio to kids between the ages of about 5 and 7. Naturally, they’re not so interested in taking a full ballet barre so I am trying to figure out some other ways to make it more interesting for them. Maybe mirroring a partner while doing tendues or something of that sort. Anyway, I was just hoping you would have some advice on how to structure my class because not only are they not interested but they have a very hard time doing most of the complicated ballet and jazz movements. Of course when I let them play freeze dance they love it and go crazy. I would love to hear your feedback.
Let's Talk Creative Dance 
Kerry replied:
I like your ideas of using mirroe image. I also like to create stories that incorporate technique. THis take away alotofthe drill work. Kidsthis age also can create dances insmall groups or in class together. I give each group 3 or 4 steps (tendu, grand jete, plie, chasse ect.) and they create their own dance to present to the class.
September 10, 2011 at 8:28 pm. Permalink.