I am a Great Dancer!

Celebrating individual movement styles builds confidence, body awareness, and the understanding that self-expression has many valid forms.

• Framework: IPC
• Unit: Champions of Character
• Learning area: Physical Development and Motor Skills
• Level: Infant & Toddler

Objectives

• Express themselves through dance and follow movement cues

Materials

• Upbeat music of various genres
• Scarves or ribbons (optional)
• Dance space

Instructions

Transform your space into a dance floor and set the mood with upbeat music. Gather children and announce: 'Today everyone is going to discover that they're a GREAT dancer! There's no wrong way to dance—every way you move is YOUR special style!'

Begin with guided movements to help hesitant dancers feel comfortable: 'Let's all sway side to side! Now let's lift our arms up high!' Gradually transition to more freestyle movement: 'Now dance however your body wants to move!'

Circulate and celebrate every child's style: 'Look at how Marcus bounces! That's his special move! See how Aria spins? That's HER special move!' This public affirmation helps children feel proud of their unique expression.

Introduce a 'spotlight' moment where each child has a few seconds to show their special dance move while classmates cheer. Some children may be shy—partner them with confident dancers or allow them to pass and try later.

Close by having children teach their favorite move to a partner, reinforcing that everyone has something valuable to share.

Educator tip

Praise effort and individual style equally: 'I love how you're moving to the beat!' rather than comparing children or holding up one style as 'best.'

Assessment

Observe participation levels, creative expression, ability to follow movement cues, and confidence in self-expression.

More from Champions of Character

• Reading, Reading, Reading
• My Family and Me
• I Can Count My Family
• I Can Share
• Sharing a Ball is Fun!
• I can Share Books with My Friends
• Scarf Dancing with My Friend
• I Can Sort!