The Problem with Dance Games

I love seeing more and more teachers reaching out for dance games to incorporate into their classes. Since I started creating resources for teachers seven years ago, I’ve been on a mission to elevate the importance of play and multi-sensory learning in the dance studio. It hasn’t been easy. I’ve been told things like, “my dancers are too advanced to play games” or “we teach serious dance at my dance studio.” Yet, with each request for fresh dance game ideas I see, I can’t help but celebrate with a little happy dance on my side of the screen!

It’s clear that some teachers, students, and caregivers may not fully grasp the significance of these activities. So, I would like to address the misconceptions I see when it comes to offering games in the classroom and how we can embrace their transformative potential!

Dance games are misunderstood.

Effective dance games have a clear objective. We play them to teach vocabulary, practice skills, experience improvisation, and to learn dance composition. They are not playground games. There are no winners or losers. If “playing games” is not something you would ever consider in your dance classes, let’s do a quick reframe. I call improvisation games “explorations”. We are exploring all the ways our bodies can move through improvisation. When it comes to incorporating a fun activity for a technical skill, I simply call it “skill development”. We are practicing how our bodies should move through technical execution in a creative, and playful way. And, when we perform games that create dances, I call it “dance composition”. We can call them dance games or we can call them what they are… improvisation, skill development, dance composition. If reframing the name of the activities helps you or your dance families understand the importance of them, I’m here for it! 

Dance games are reserved for special occasions or as rewards for “good” behavior.

Now that we have clarified what dance games are, let’s talk about when we should incorporate them. Of course, these are fun to offer during special occasions (holidays, first day of dance, dance camps, etc), but if the objective of our dance games is to develop skills (technique), improvisation (artistry), and composition (choreography), why wouldn’t we want to incorporate them into every class? Our classes are filled with future dance teachers, choreographers, and performers. It does a disservice to them to not include these into the curriculum. 

Many of these games include multiple senses which helps our students understand their bodies, technique, and the art of dance on a deeper level. It also keeps them engaged and eager to learn. These activities enrich the learning experience and are part of a solid dance education.

Not enough teachers are implementing dance games in their classes.  

No, your students are not too advanced for improvisation and composition. And, learning through play IS serious learning. If you’ve been wondering how to make your classes more exciting and engaging, here is your sign to incorporate dance games (or whatever you want to call them). Research consistently shows that children learn best through play, and activating multiple senses enhances understanding and retention. As long as the objective is clear and communicated effectively, you can't go wrong. If you're looking for resources to help you incorporate more improvisation, check out Let’s Explore! Improvisation for All Ages. For dance composition, check out Let’s Create! Dance Composition.

Let’s get out there and play! I’d love to hear your thoughts and experiences—share your favorite dance games in the comments below. Together, let’s elevate the role of play in dance education!