SS-Dance Book.indd - Practical Pre-School Books

Exploring Dance and Movement
The Early Years Foundation Stage
The guidelines , last published in May 2008, break down
creative development into four basic aspects that incorporate the
five Early Learning Goals and the stepping stones as follows:
Being creative – Responding to
Experiences, Expressing and
Communicating Ideas
E.L.G. ‘Respond in a variety of ways to what they
see, hear, smell, touch or feel.’
E.L.G. ‘Express and communicate their ideas,
thoughts and feelings by using a widening range of
materials, suitable tools, imaginative and role-play,
movement, designing and making, and a variety of
songs and musical instruments.’
Exploring Media and Materials
E.L.G. ‘Explore colour, texture, shape, form and space
in two and three dimensions.’
Creating Music and Dance
E.L.G. ‘Recognise and explore how sounds can be
changed, sing simple songs from memory, recognise
repeated sounds and sound patterns and match
movements to music.’
Developing Imagination and
Imaginative Play
E.L.G. ‘Use their imagination in art and design,
music, dance, imaginative and role-play and stories.’
Dance and movement are referred to throughout the aspects
of Creative Development and the importance of providing
children with opportunities for both are frequently mentioned
within the effective practice guidance of the EYFS. Through
dance and movement children are able to express their
imagination and creativity free from the fear of failure, as there
is no right or wrong way to dance. Dance is a medium that
enables children to build confidence in their own abilities as
it continuously offers a sense of achievement. Children can
respond to experiences in their own unique manner, working
either individually or with others, all the while developing
their ideas and creative approach.
Using the activities in
this book
Warm Up
These short sessions are designed to introduce topics to
children whilst at the same time limbering them up in
preparation for physical exercise. The warm up should be a
time for children to become at ease within the group, as they
need to feel secure and relaxed in order to have the confidence
to express themselves freely. Children should feel comfortable
in conveying their own interpretations of each idea.
Dance
Each topic has suggestions for dance. Some dance is set to
music, whilst others can be performed to well-known rhymes
or songs. Many of the dances incorporate media and materials
to enhance the experiences. These props can further develop
creativity as children begin to explore and understand colours,
textures, forms and space. Teacher input is a great way to
encourage movement but be careful not to over demonstrate
aims and intentions, as this may limit children’s own thoughts
and expression.
Movement Games
Games are linked to the topics and provide time for the group
to play together imaginatively, often involving role play and
some use of props. Almost all can be played both indoors or
outdoors, adding further learning opportunities and additional
dimensions.
Cool Down
It is critical that children
have sufficient time to
relax after physical play, and
this is exactly the aim of
each cool down.
These activities should
be conducted in a calm
environment away from
distractions wherever
possible, ensuring
appropriate room
temperatures are
maintained with
adequate ventilation
and access to fresh
drinking water.
Stepping Stones to Creativity 5