Minute Masterclass Episode 7

Welcome to your one-minute masterclass. I’m Andrea Trench, founder of DiscoverDance. Robyn Papworth is an Australian Exercise Physiologist, author, developmental educator and early learning trainer. She writes, “Jumping uses the part of the brain called the cerebellum. This part of the brain is responsible for our gross motor skill of balance, as well as focus, concentration, and attention. Children who typically find it difficult to jump and balance, may also find it hard to focus and may be easily distracted in the classroom because their cerebellum is underdeveloped. So learning to jump on the spot and jump forward is one of the crucial skills needed for the development of children’s focus and attention skills.”

We know jumping helps develop our lower body strength, our balance, and transferring weight…but how many of us dream of a class full of focused students? Before our students can concentrate on delivering the perfect sauté, échappé, or grand jeté, we must allow them plenty of opportunity to just jump. Robyn has a free handout on her website PlayMoveImprove.com.au. Search “Jump”. For more information, visit DiscoverDance.com.