Ballet is not only a beautiful art form, but it can also have a positive impact on a child's development.
From improving their physical coordination and balance to boosting their self-esteem and confidence; ballet offers a range of benefits for young children.
In this article, we'll explore the many ways in which ballet can support your child's growth and development.
Ballet improves coordination, balance and strength
One of the most obvious benefits of ballet is improved coordination, balance and strength.
Ballet requires children to move their bodies in a wide range of motion, in precise and controlled ways. This helps to develop their motor skills and spatial awareness, in addition to building strength and flexibility.
Through regular practice, children can improve their balance, posture, flexibility and overall physical coordination.
These transferable skills can help prevent injuries, improve their overall physical health, and have a positive impact on other physical activities and sports.
Ballet boosts cognitive development and memory
Ballet requires a lot of focus, concentration and the ability to memorise choreography and sequences. These skills can help improve a child's memory and cognitive abilities - during a dance, the child’s brain is continuously engaged.
It is thought that children who participate in ballet have better cognitive function and memory than those who do not. Several studies have shown how dance improves brain function and health - not only in children but also adults. [1]
Ballet also shows the benefits of dance for mental health in young children. Dancing releases endorphins, the happy hormone, allowing children to feel relaxed and less anxious.
Performing ballet routines require dancers to portray a certain emotion to showcase the story; a sad swan, a happy bunny etc. This teaches children how to recognise different emotions, not only in their characters but also in themselves.
If you’d like to know more about how to support emotional regulation in children, please check out our latest article here.
Ballet builds confidence and self-esteem, along with promoting a healthy lifestyle
Extra-curricular classes are a great place for children to socialise and work together as a team, building strong life-long skills needed in adulthood.
Ballet can be a great way for children to build confidence and self-esteem. As they learn new skills and master difficult movements, they gain a sense of accomplishment and pride in their abilities.
This sense of accomplishment will run through the children into other areas of their lives; such as when meeting new people, or when faced with a new challenge.
Starting ballet from a young age promotes and encourages children to be active and follow a healthy lifestyle.
Cardiovascular exercise is another benefit of ballet. Ballet results in full body movement and workout, increasing the heart rate to get the blood flowing - to body parts and to the mind.
Additionally, ballet classes often involve performing in front of others, which can help children overcome shyness and stage fright. Through ballet, children can develop a positive self-image and begin to understand and listen to their bodies.
As you can see, there are many benefits to ballet for young children. At Lucky Beans Childcare, we provide ballet lessons to the children on a regular basis, providing strength-based support for healthy and active children.