How Dance Helps Kids Learn Better in School

In today’s dynamic education landscape, traditional methods of instruction are continuously being complemented by innovative teaching strategies. One such approach gaining traction is incorporating dance as a tool for education. Often perceived as an extracurricular or physical exercise, dance is now recognized for its potential to enhance learning across various disciplines. Integrating dance into classroom settings taps into students’ kinesthetic abilities and fosters cognitive development, creative expression, and social-emotional growth.

Why Dance in Education?

Dance has long been celebrated for its ability to engage students physically, but its impact goes far beyond movement. Research has shown that incorporating dance in early education can significantly benefit children’s academic and personal development. Through dance, students explore problem-solving, creative thinking, and teamwork. These experiences nurture a deeper understanding of subjects like language arts, math, and science, often in ways that traditional teaching methods do not offer.

Moreover, dance helps break down barriers, allowing students to express themselves in ways they may not feel comfortable doing through words alone.

Dance is for all students—even those who may be hesitant initially. By transforming movements from familiar activities like sports into rhythmic dance steps, educators can make dance accessible and enjoyable for even the most reluctant participants.

Nelson Neal,

then president-elect of the National Dance Association

Cognitive Development Through Movement

One of the most compelling reasons to integrate dance into education is its direct link to cognitive growth. Dance activates multiple parts of the brain simultaneously—movement, rhythm, memory, and spatial awareness all work together to enhance learning. For instance, McGreevy-Nichols, a Roger Williams Middle School dance educator, uses dance to explore complex themes like prejudice through literature and history, helping students grasp abstract concepts with greater clarity.

When students choreograph their dances, they are not just learning steps but solving movement problems, analyzing stories, and developing critical thinking skills. This hands-on, integrative approach to learning can greatly benefit children in dance integration in the preschool curriculum, where play and movement are essential components of early childhood education. The structure of dance lessons also teaches students discipline and focus—skills that translate directly to academic success.

Social-Emotional Benefits of Dance

In addition to its cognitive benefits, dance promotes emotional resilience and social skills. In classrooms where dance is integrated, students collaborate to create and perform routines, learning valuable lessons in teamwork and communication. Whether through solo work or group performances, dance encourages students to be aware of their surroundings and those around them.

At River Hill High School, dance educator Jill Blizzard incorporates techniques from various dance forms, including ballet, modern dance, and jazz, to offer a well-rounded experience. Her classes focus on performance and the history and theory behind each form, enabling students to connect intellectually with the material. For many students, particularly those from diverse backgrounds, dance is an equalizer, providing an inclusive space where everyone can thrive.

Dance and the Whole Child Approach

Ultimately, dance as a teaching tool supports the whole child’s development. The cognitive development through movement fostered by dance activities enables students to absorb and retain information more effectively. Furthermore, the creative freedom and emotional expression allowed through dance nurture well-rounded individuals who are confident, empathetic, and equipped with the critical thinking skills they need for future success.

Incorporating dance into the classroom might seem challenging for educators unfamiliar with movement-based teaching. Still, it can become a transformative educational tool with the right support and resources. Programs like Moververse provide comprehensive guidance, lesson plans, music selections, and age-appropriate choreography that align with curricular goals. With creativity and the right resources, any educator can make dance an integral part of their teaching approach.

Conclusion

Dance is more than just an art form; it’s a powerful tool for teaching. By introducing dance into early education, educators can stimulate cognitive development, foster creativity, and promote social-emotional growth. With resources like Moververse, teachers can easily integrate dance into their curriculum, ensuring that students receive a holistic education that prepares them for academic and personal success.

Incorporating dance into classrooms is a fun and engaging way to teach and a proven method for enhancing learning outcomes. It’s time to take that first step and see how dance can transform the educational experience for students of all ages.