Let’s continue the discussion on how to run a great preschool ballet class!
In the previous video we talked about learning the students’ names quickly, having big energy and starting class with something that grabs the students’ attention right away. Now let’s talk about how to structure the class and the benefits of incorporating props.
First, mixing up the class with a variety of activities is extremely helpful. Preschoolers have short attention spans and can’t handle one activity for a long time. For example, after you are finished warming up, have the students move around or bring in props. If you are working on a dance, try not to work on a second dance right away. Practice leaps or jumps, bring out a parachute or play a creative movement game. Always keep things moving and changing.
Here is an example of how I run a 45 minute pre-ballet class: First we gather together and have a bit of share time. Then I will read a few pages of our book for the session. Then we will warm up which includes briefly introducing steps, jumping around, and stretching. Then we will practice a dance followed by a creative movement game. Next we might play a creative game with props. Then practice another dance, practice leaps or jumps and if there is still time we can play another creative movement game.
This is just one example. You can switch up the order any way you choose. You should also keep in mind the class’s energy level and attention span. Some days you won’t be able to do two dances and others you may be able to do three. Some days the students will need to run around more and other days they may be able to focus more. Be prepared to go with the flow. Let’s talk more about that now.
Be Willing to Change Your Plan
In a preschool dance class, you never know what may happen. The students may be shy one day and super excited the next. If you teach more than one class, each class could also be very different. A class could also change their mood half way through. What if you notice the class needs something different than what you have already planned? And how do you know if your class needs a change?
Here is an example. You just finished a dance with your class and you planned to have the students sit down and practice leaps one at a time. On this day however, you notice the students are looking a little unfocused and if you have them sit down the energy of the class might crash. What do you do?
I have already mentioned why it is so important to know your material. The choreography or games you play should be second nature in order for you to think about all the other things you need to teach. Not only are you teaching steps, you are watching the students’ behavior, noticing if they are having fun and thinking about what you are going to have them do next. We as teachers have a lot on our plates!
If you have noticed the class’s energy is a bit low, what should you do? You will need to quickly change your plan to something more upbeat. Instead of having the children sit, it may be time for a creative movement game that has everyone moving around. You could choose a game you had planned to save for later or incorporate leaps into a game that has everybody moving at the same time.
What if you need the children to focus on a dance in order to prepare them for a show and you are having trouble keeping their attention? When I finish an activity, I not only notice the mood of my class, but I also keep in mind what I want them to learn that day. If we are preparing for a performance, they do need to practice their dances. I have the children practice their dances, but fit creative games in between each dance in order to keep their attention for the whole class. If you are only doing one dance for a show, have the children practice the dance at the beginning of class and then after a few games have them practice the dance again at the end of class if needed. This way, they can practice their dances without becoming bored and when it is performance time the children will be ready. If they are particularly focused one day then you could practice the dance right away again and take advantage of their attention. Reward them with a creative game afterwards.
Always remember, if you feel as if you practiced the dance one more time you would completely lose your class, don’t worry about it. Move on. These are preschoolers. We don’t need to and don’t want to drill them. They will follow you in a show anyway and do just fine! Just be willing to go with the flow. Of course we want the children to follow the class plan but never force it. We don’t want to lose their focus and we also don’t want them to dislike the class. Do your best and remember to have fun!
Use Props
So now on to props! Props are very helpful in a class with children of all ages. Props bring something new and different to the class, spark creativity and help develop motor skills.
For example, children can use instruments in class. Shakers are a great companion to dance around with and are a perfect beginning musical instrument. Many other musical instruments can be used in class as well, such as drums, bells or sticks (be careful not to run around with sticks or poke anyone). You can make an orchestra or a marching band. Not only are the children using their small and large motor skills, but they are also learning the beginnings of rhythm and musicality.
Other props such as stuffed animals or bean bags are good for hand eye coordination. Students can jump or leap over them. They can be gently tossed or balanced on different body parts while trying to dance at the same time. Animals are also great to use in creative games that use their imaginations.
Parachutes are my favorite. The students can shake them up and down, fast or slow. They can also dance under them. We can even pretend they are big flowers or tents and use them in creative activities.
There are so many possibilities when using props. They help add spice to a class and the students love them! For more information about using props in your classes check out my ebook, Creative Movement Games for Preschoolers: Incorporating Props which is available on Amazon.
Thank you for joining this video on adding variety to your classes and using props. In the next video we will talk about using your music and the teacher and students’ participation in class.