Kids and Dancing

Oh, you caught us in the middle of a dance! After all, today is International Dance Day. In case you haven’t heard of this special day, it is celebrated every single year on this day- April 29.

What Exactly is International Dance Day?

The purpose of this International Dance Day is to raise awareness of the art of dancing and to get people involved in dancing. It has actually been celebrated since 1982…and it looks like it’s here to stay!

International Dance Day was initiated by the International Dance Council CID in Paris.

How is International Dance Day Typically Celebrated?

The International Dance Council encourages everyone to celebrate this day with special events such as classes, performances, classes, articles, TV programs, parades, shows, and more!

As you can see, these suggested experiences support the organization’s main goal of “attracting the attention of the wider public to the art of dance.” They continue to emphasize that the purpose of this day should be reaching out to people who do not already participate in dance activities usually.

Therefore, the IDC expresses that these events should take place in everyday places such as stores, parks, streets, towns, schools, or stadiums. The goal of putting on these events in original, everyday surroundings is that people realize this day (and the action of dance) applies to everyone!

How Can You Celebrate Today with Your Kids?

• The easiest way to celebrate is to simply get up and dance! Put on some music or make your own and get grooving!

• Sign up for a dance class to learn something new! If dance classes aren’t accessible, maybe a neighbor or family member can come up with their own “dance lesson” to teach your kids today.

• Search different dance styles on videos on YouTube or on another platform. Which one is your child’s favorite? Why? Can they come up with a dance that is similar to that style?

• How has dance evolved over time? Do a quick internet search with your child to watch the evolution of dance.

Reading About Dance

Once your kids are worn out from all the dancing and movement, or if dancing isn’t their cup of tea, they can learn about dance through books. There are such a variety of children’s books that incorporate the idea of dancing. Here are just a few of our favorites:

• I Will Dance by Nancy Bo Flood
• A Girl Named Rosita by Anika Aldamuy Denise
• Flora and the Flamingo by Molly Idle
• Dancing in the Wings by Debbie Allen
• Kitchen Dance by Maurie J. Manning
• Amy Wu and the Ribbon Dance by Kat Zhang
• Parker Shines On by Parker Curry, Jessica Curry

What activity are you choosing to experience today in order to become more aware of the benefits of dancing? Let us know in the comments!