Simple Moves for a Simply Fabulous Dance

I just came back from dancing in New Hamsphire with my friend children's music singer/songwriter Steve Blunt.  He is in the process of  completing his new CD and he had the great idea of adding a bonus movement feature to the disc. The movements he created are simple and easy to remember because they mimic the words he sings.  It makes the songs interactive and the kids get to be silly as they listen to silly lyrics.  Dances do not have to be complicated to be effective and engaging.  In fact, sometimes the simplier the better!

You can use this idea to create simple movements to your favorite tunes. 

1. Choose a song that has a lot of descriptive words or clear actions.
2. Have the words of the song inspire three or four movements that can repeat throughout the song. (It is great to pull ideas out of the chorus since it repeats.) 
3. One or two of the movements should travel through the space and one or two should be stationary.
4. Create a beginning and end shape to the dance.
5. Make sure at least one movement engages the entire body.
6. Encourage the kids to use facial expressions as well. 
7. Be careful not to "act out" the song. 
8. Make sure the kids come up the movements with you!

 Simple dances are fun and do not require much space.  You can even have the kids pick out the music.  (Make sure to listen to the lyrics first before agreeing to the song.)

Have fun dancing to your favorite song with the little ones in your life.  And keep your movements simple for a simply fabulous dance!

Sincerely,
Stacey

Lean on Me!

In honor of Mother's Day I would like to share with you a story, a song and an activity. 

First the story:
A few days after writing my blog post in March my mother, who has multiple scelrosis, became quite ill.  Through the care of doctors, support from family and friends and my mother's strength, tenacity, positive thinking and willingness to work hard, she is on the road to recovery. 

Mothers never stop teaching and I learned a lot about my mom, about myself and the role I play as a mom and teacher through observing my mom as she fought back from her illness.  We learn by watching others not only when they know we are watching but more importantly when they don't.  My mom greets each new day with a song and a smile and I now do the same!

Second the song:

The power of music and song was instrumental in my mom's recovery.  Song and music enabled my mom as well as my family to express through music what we could not say in words.   Sometimes we needed the right song to start a dialogue, to share feelings or to start a dance.

Lean On Me

(Songwriter: Bill Withers)

Sometimes in our lives
We all have pain
We all have sorrow
But if we are wise
We know that there's always tommorow

Lean on me, when you're not strong
And I'll be your friend
I'll help you carry on
For it won't be long
'Til I'm gonna need
Somebody to lean on

Please swallow your pride
If I have things you need to borrow
For no one can fill those of your needs
That you won't let show
You just call on me brother, when you need a hand (Chorus)
We all need somebody to lean on
I just might have a problem that you'd understand
We all need somebody to lean on

Lean on me, when you're not strong
And I'll be your friend
I'll help you carry on
For it won't be long
'Til I'm gonna need
Somebody to lean on

Chorus

If there is a load you need to bear
That you can't carry
I'm right up the road
I'll share your load
If you just call me

I heard this song when I was driving home from visiting my mom.  I started to sing a long with the radio and by the time I reached my destination I was singing at the top of my lungs.  (and I do not sing like a songbird!)


Last but not least the dance:

For me, music and dance are intertwined. I hear music and see the dance. So here is the activity that will hopefully inspire you and your little ones to dance!  Read your students the lyrics  to the song Lean on Me or have them listen to the song.

Ask your students:

• What does it mean to lean on someone?
• How can you support someone with your body?  (hold hands, lift someone, lean on them, smile, dance for them, dance with them, carry them, etc.)
• Can you create a dance showing these ideas?

This exercise promotes problem solving, creativity, working together, music appreciation and dance making!

Have fun with your little ones exploring what "lean on me" means to them and to you too!

Sincerely,
Stacey