Contrary to some old biases and beliefs that still persist, dance is for everyone. That’s the important message that Dance Steps London conveys each and every day. As a result, the organization has welcomed – and continues to welcome – people from all walks of life who enjoy the many benefits of dance.
For young children attending dance lessons, that benefits can include improved physical health through exercise, as well as the development of cognition, body awareness, socialization, self-confidence and creativity.
“The beauty of dance is that it can be for anyone and everyone,” says Krista Conti, a veteran Dance Steps teacher. “And it helps to promote positive attitudes and behaviour.”
Positive attitudes and behaviour are specifically what are required for inclusion – and for people of all backgrounds to be encouraged to participate in dance in the first place. One major factor is getting this information into the hands of adults.
“Parents need to understand that dance really is for everyone, and they should be encouraged not to let their ‘misconceived biases’ get in the way of allowing their child the chance to have a great experience,” says Conti.
Though progress is being made, biases do still exist. But, just as more barriers are being broken in traditional sports, as more and more women and visible minorities are enrolling in activities like hockey and soccer, dance is seeing more diversity as well. On a larger stage, the NYC Ballet had its first black child female lead (Marie) in its production of the Nutcracker this past season. But there remains a lot of room for improvement on the diversity and inclusion front.
At Dance Steps London, one common theme is the lack of boys enrolled in programs, as society often discourages males to pursue dance – or if they do, they often participate in only certain styles, like hip hop.
The message from Dance Steps? Dance is not gender specific. And it’s certainly not a bias that is accepted at the London studio, whereas inclusion is key. You do not have to have a specific look or size – just a desire and determination to succeed and have fun.
And what about the idea that dance has fewer opportunities for its most talented athletes? The reality is, just like in hockey and other sports, less than one percent of participants will make a professional career out of the sport. But all can enjoy the activity – and its benefits – from a young age through to one’s adult years.
“We all have the need to be accepted,” says Conti. “As teachers, we recognize that some children will need extra help with the physical aspects of dance, while even those who appear to have every attribute on the outside might still need extra help with what’s happening on the inside, like their emotions or self-confidence.”
The bottom line? Dance has many benefits – and they can be enjoyed by all humans. All that’s required is an interest and a desire to participate.
Upcoming Preschool Session
January 15 to March 11
(9 Weeks for $110 including HST)
Wednesdays 4:30-5:00pm
Sundays 2:30-3:00pm
Contributions by Donna Bayley and Krista Conti
