How to Use Props Effectively
How To Use Props Effectively In Your Ballet Classes
What could be more fun for a preschooler than dancing with props like scarves or ribbon streamers? The right props can liven up a preschool or pre-ballet class and of course, bring out the creativity in your children. What's more, good dance props can fire up preschoolers to learn faster, and that's great for the class! Props can actually be your best friend when used to aid in the dance movement or reinforce the dance concept being taught. And of course, the experience gets better if you know how to use them effectively.
Today's post is the first of a two-part series letting you in on some of our favorite tips to take your experience using props to the next level.
LET YOUR CREATIVITY SOAR
Don't be afraid to give in to your creativity when choosing dance props for your ballet classes. You won't be wrong to get something more than scarves and ribbons; although scarves are great during movement exercises. You can spice things up for the kids by incorporating masks, cones, tunnels, fairy wands, hula hoops and more!
Want to get your hands on hula hoops, fairy wands, or scarves? If so, here are some great picks:
• As for hula hoops, you won't be wrong to stick with US Games Standard Hoops! Besides being super fun, these hoops are also sturdy and sure to last a long time.
• Scarves are also great for your classes; soft, smooth, and of course, colorful! What more could the kids ask for? Scarves tend to come in multicolor or single-color packs. You may save yourself a headache (and your students a few arguments) by getting a single color pack.
• Fairy wands are perfect for role-playing, and there's no doubt that those preschoolers will love Pink Fairy Butterfly Wands. They're just lovely!
Remember, there are still a whole lot of other dance props out there — just let your creativity take over and have fun!
Do you have any favorite, go-to props? Please share in the comments section below. Stay tuned for more tips on selecting and using props in your ballet classes in our next post.
Happy Dancing!
Ashley Hartford
Founder + Owner, Once Upon a Ballet
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