Approaching the end of our first season.
We are approaching the end of my first season with EIM. Only five months until recital, and we're on our way! Our theme this year is "Colors of Dance" and we will be working on fun and creative ways to express ourselves through color.
I'll ask them: Can you paint with all the colors of the wind?
I have a few creative ideas for my dancers, and I'm working hard to make ballet unveil itself as less strict and more imaginative. Of course, they are all very excited for their jazz dance.
Several weeks ago, we had a meeting to discuss classroom control, and each of our strengths (and weaknesses--in case we wanted to share). Many of us spilt our classroom management woes to one another, and graciously accepted advice from our steadfast leader.
Here are a few tips to break the ice before my next, more involved post on classroom management. I think it would be interesting to promote a dialogue about our individual struggles ( and strengths) as teachers.
"No" becomes a strict answer to your children.
Set your rules and accept nothing but this.
Only give out ONE warning, you don't have time to keep up with more.
After the first warning, take out the child if poor behavior continues: KEY--do not let this child sit. They must stand and watch their classmates. (I will address their behavior after 5 minutes or one combination, to see if they are ready to join the class again.)
My students have been shaping up, and not just in their dance vocabulary. This past week, I've had dancers shine. Some of my students who were previously unable to grasp a concept (or keep up with a combination) were coming into class with a mission to succeed.
I had a conversation with each class about Speaking with Our Eyes. In dance class, it is very important to speak with your eyes. This is...
One way to SHOW your teacher that you are focused and paying attention.
It is also a good way to communicate with your audience.
Of course I made funny aversions to get the point across, but it worked.
It has taken MORE time with my larger class to gain the control and respect of each student. In my smaller class, we are working on gaining independence, which seems to be the biggest challenge for the young ones.
Since my students are now aware of the recital-- the lights, the stage, the music, audience, and curtain, too-- we are having to learn that Miss Lee will not be able to hold your hand for much longer.
It is very hard. Especially when your youngest students are upset about any number of things unrelated to dance. With focus, fun, and freedom... I'm hoping to have stable groups of performers.
but it's only (almost) December!