Ready, Set, and Freeze: Using Freeze Dances in Elementary Music
More than a Fun Filler
I used to think that doing freeze dances in class was more of a time filler than a developmental activity. However, freeze dance, a delightful combination of dance and game, has proven to be an effective and enjoyable teaching tool in my music classes. Let’s explore the benefits (beyond fun) of incorporating freeze dance activities into your elementary lessons.
Enhanced Physical Development
Freeze dance encourages children to move their bodies rhythmically and creatively. Dancing promotes physical coordination, physical exertion, balance, and gross motor skills while your students interpret the music and express themselves through movement. Even a few minutes of freeze dancing can add precious minutes to a child’s total physical activity time during the day! I find it to be the perfect activity when concentration is running low! It also serves as an excellent outlet for children to release pent-up energy, helping to improve focus and concentration during subsequent learning activities.
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Cognitive and Musical Development
While exploring movement during a freeze dance, young learners are automatically exposed to different musical elements, such as rhythm, tempo, and melody. By actively listening and moving in response to the music, children develop a deeper, intrinsic understanding of these musical concepts. This is especially helpful for your kinesthetic learners! Freeze dancing also gives students the freedom to explore elements of music in a stress-free environment.
Social Interaction and Teamwork
Freeze dance activities are often conducted in group settings, encouraging social interaction and teamwork. Children learn to cooperate, take turns, and respect one another’s personal space while dancing together. In my classroom, we discuss personal space and body control a lot in association with freeze dances. Occasionally, I will allow students to join hands with a partner to dance, as well. These instruction free dancing experiences can help build positive relationships among students, creating a supportive and inclusive classroom environment, as well.
Creativity and Self-Expression
Music and dance provide a perfect outlet for creativity and self-expression. Freeze dancing allows children to move freely, interpret the music in their unique ways, and let their imagination run wild. It is a great way to make the self to music connection. Freeze dance activities help create a safe space for self-expression, helping children build confidence and self-esteem as they discover and showcase their creativity through movement. Some of my most quiet and reluctant students become strangers to me when the dance music turns on!
Stress Relief and Emotional Regulation
Elementary school can be a stressful environment for children. Freeze dance offers a fun and non-judgmental way to relieve stress and manage emotions. Engaging in physical activity and connecting with music can elevate mood, reduce anxiety, and improve overall emotional well-being. Teachers can also use specific musical selections to evoke different emotions, providing a platform for discussions on feelings and emotional awareness.
Freeze dancing is a classroom favorite for my students. Who knew they were learning so much while having fun!?
Free Download – No Strings Attached
Below you will find a link to a Google Slides presentation with all of my Freeze Dance YouTube videos! These videos have a wide arrangement of musical scores, engaging themes, and varied tempos!
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Enjoy!
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