This week (1st – 7th February 2021) is Children’s Mental Health Week, and the theme this year is Express Yourself. So, I just couldn’t let this week go by without writing a blog post about how dance fits in so well to children’s mental wellbeing and this particular theme.
The past year has been incredibly challenging for all of us, children included. That’s why this week aims to highlight the importance of expressing our thoughts and feelings, and encourages children to explore different ways they can do so: art, writing, music, drama and dance just to name a few.
I’ve always loved performing on stage: the excitement, the costumes, the lights. But, it’s also important to remember that expressing ourselves is not about putting on a performance; it's about showing who we are in a way that helps us feel good. As well as dancing I love writing and music, all things that make me happy and allow me to portray my emotions and ideas.
What I especially enjoy about teaching is being able to give children the opportunity to learn about themselves - the way I see it is that I'm not just teaching children dance moves, I'm teaching them how they can use dance to show their personalities . I believe it’s so important to ensure every child has the opportunity to contribute something. Sometimes things as small as asking children for a song request for the warm up, or an ending position for a dance, provide an opportunity for their input of ideas and output of expression.
This week, I challenge you (children AND grown ups), to explore different forms of expression at home: paint an abstract picture, pick up the camera and see what images you can capture, or put on your favourite song and freestyle!
For further information, tips and activities, do check out https://www.childrensmentalhealthweek.org.uk/.
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