Why PRAISE is bad for our dancers – and what to say instead

Becoming a mother has taught me so much already…

Not least of all it’s made me question the things I am already saying to my 15 month old to encourage his growth, independence and self-belief, from the word go.

I mean, should I help him with the puzzle piece? Should I show him how to open the lid – or different ways to play with the sand? Should I clap and praise him when he gets the shape in the right place or should I just sit quietly and watch so as to not interrupt his concentration?!

One things for sure, becoming a mother has made me consider more deeply how I speak to and praise the dancers I work with, for exactly the same reason… Are my words helping their growth in the best way?

Continue reading “Why PRAISE is bad for our dancers – and what to say instead”

What happens at a Groove Child Syllabus Course?

Groove Child® Syllabus Course Day!

9:30am

The day begins with a warm welcome from Natalie & Amy, the creators of Groove Child, short introductions by the group, and an overview of the syllabus mission and ethos.

We then begin with a quick discussion about the talent development & optimal learning environments – some useful concepts teachers may or may not already be aware of, but ensuring an interesting and positive discussion to set the tone for the day. We refer back to this throughout the day and HOW the use of Groove Child at your school can help grow the talent of your students of all abilities.

Continue reading “What happens at a Groove Child Syllabus Course?”

4 Phrases that help Raise Healthy Minded Dancers

Some subtle but effective ways we can help build a healthier mindset in our young dancers from a early age, so they aren’t held back by a lack of self-belief.
Healthy minded dancers means healthy human beings! And ultimately, brave, confident and expressive performers.

Continue reading “4 Phrases that help Raise Healthy Minded Dancers”

Mindfulness for Children & Young Dancers

Mindfulness for children is about teaching them healthy mental habits, tools they can use to pause and relax in moments of anxiety or stress, and a way to release to any negative thought patterns they might feel (now or in the future) that could hold them back from success… 

Groove Child & an introduction to mindfulness
The Groove Child® syllabus and dance toolkit help you incorporate simple visualisations, mindful moments, and confidence boosting exercises to nurture healthy minds as well as their dance technique.

What is mindfulness?

And why is it important for our young dancers – and children, in general?

Continue reading “Mindfulness for Children & Young Dancers”

Our failures and flaws

In reality, we are all TERRIFIED of failure. Mainly because we worry what others will think, that they will point and laugh, taking us back to playground days. Nobody likes to be seen as silly or foolish.

Our failures and flaws help us to grow and learn. Through them we find out what works and what doesn’t. Continue reading “Our failures and flaws”