Kiddipedia
While growing up, I have always wondered why people ask, “Why do you like to dance?” As a novice dancer then, I did not know what to say other than that I enjoyed it and made me feel good. But now, if I am asked the same question, I can come up with twenty reasons.
There are some key benefits to learning some form of Art, especially for kids and young adults. It can be anything from painting, learning instruments, or classical Ballet to Salsa, Jazz, or Bollywood… we are lucky to have so many choices these days. When young children learn art, they not only learn about artistic expression but some core life skills.
It heightens their mental ability and cognitive thinking.
Music and Dance are all about absorbing, retaining, and executing information. These three when done in a cyclic motion improve mental dexterity (great memory) helping children absorb, hold information better and think on their feet (pun intended). Research indicates that active participation in the Arts can enhance social connectedness, emotional development, and mental and physical wellbeing. All these functions working together improve their brain’s overall cognitive ability.
It improves self-mastery (self-confidence, self-esteem and more importantly self -expression).
To me dancing is equal parts artistry and athleticism, giving me the opportunity to express my emotions. The same applies for children; dance and music give them the freedom to express their emotions through art and channel their energy in a safe environment. It is not just about learning cool moves and steps. Its more about training one’s body to flow a certain way and that comes only through discipline, hard work and practice which are excellent values for children to learn.
It helps them to be happy and positive.
Learning any Art increases, one’s neural connectivity as it deeply integrates various brain functions like rational, musical, kinesthetic, and emotional. This increased neural connectivity is proven to be of great benefit to young minds, particularly in the early years. It is also a proven fact that Dance in particular prompts an increased level of endorphins in comparison to other forms of exercise. Lastly, providing a healthy lifestyle for kids is all about nurturing and stimulating their mind, body and soul, and Art has all these characteristics.”
So, if you are thinking of enrolling your kids in any form of Art, I will simply say “Just do it,” I am sure they will thank you for it one day.
Deepa Mani is an established Indian Classical and Contemporary dancer, Founder and Artistic Director of Chandralaya School of Dance in Melbourne. Deepa and her team take pleasure in imparting the beautiful art form(s) in kids and adults. Deepa is a passionate individual and a strong advocate in improving mental & physical well-being through Dance in kids and adults.
You can get in touch with Deepa via socials (@chandralayadance)
