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How to Teach Tap Class to 4- and 5-Year-Olds

Tap dancing is a fun activity that people of all ages can enjoy. Teaching tap to 4- and 5-year-olds may require extra patience and attention because at this age, children may not have had any formal dance training or experience in a class setting. However, this is an ideal age for children to learn how to tap because not only are they able to walk and balance on their own, but they are also open to new experiences. As with any class, a teacher should have prior experience in the topic and therefore knowledge of basic tap moves.

Things You'll Need

  • Hardwood flooring
  • Music
  • Tap shoes
  • Stamps or stickers
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Instructions

    • 1

      Find a location for the class. The ideal location should have a large open space with hardwood flooring and a large mirror. If a location like this is not available to you, purchase sheets of plywood from a hardwood store and create your own space.

    • 2

      Develop a structure for your class. Allot time for warming up, practicing new moves and learning a routine.

    • 3

      Identify the new moves you intend to teach at the beginning of each class, as well as what music, if any, you intend to use. Basic steps include shuffle and shuffle ball change.

    • 4

      Begin the class with a warm-up. The warm-up can be a game or moving to fun music to engage the 4- and 5-year-olds.

    • 5

      Demonstrate the new moves in front of the class while wearing your tap shoes. At this age, the students will learn mostly through observation, so it is important that you stand where all students can see you.

    • 6

      Have the class do the new moves while you guide them.

    • 7

      Teach the short routine to the class. If you would like, have the students perform the short routine for their parents and guardians when they come to pick them up. This allows the students to practice performing in front of an audience.

    • 8

      Reward the class with a small stamp or sticker. This small reward will encourage the students to attend future classes.

Tap Dance

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