Why dance is so important for the developing brain - Siegeris Dance

How movement, music, and creativity help children thrive!

As parents, we’re always looking for activities that support our children’s growth, not just physically, but emotionally, socially, and academically too. One of the most powerful (and joyful!) ways to support a developing brain is through dance.

At Siegeris Dance, we see every day how dance helps children grow into confident, focused, and creative individuals. But what’s happening behind the scenes - inside the brain - is just as exciting.

Dance builds stronger brains

Dance is unique because it engages multiple areas of the brain at the same time. When a child dances, they are:

• Listening to music

• Remembering sequences and patterns

• Coordinating arms, legs, and posture

• Responding to rhythm and timing

• Expressing emotion and creativity

This combination strengthens neural connections and supports overall brain development. Studies show that activities combining movement and music can improve memory, attention, and problem-solving skills, all essential for learning at school and beyond.

Movement supports learning

Children learn best when their bodies are involved. Dance improves:

• Motor skills – balance, coordination, and spatial awareness

• Focus and concentration – following instructions and routines

• Executive function – planning, self-control, and flexibility

These skills directly support reading, writing, and maths. Many parents notice that children who dance regularly show improved classroom focus and confidence.

Emotional expression and confidence

A core principle here at Siegeris Dance is creating and fostering a nurturing, confidence building learning environment for all our students. We understand that not all children will become prima ballerinas but we firmly believe all are still welcome in a Siegeris Dance class. Dance gives children a safe and positive way to express emotions — especially those they may not yet have words for. Through movement, children build:

• Self-confidence by mastering new skills

• Resilience by practicing and improving over time

• Emotional regulation through music and movement

At Siegeris Dance, we celebrate effort as much as achievement, helping children feel proud of what their bodies and minds can do.

Social skills and connection

Dance classes are also a wonderful social environment. Children learn to:

• Work as part of a group

• Take turns and follow cues

• Respect others’ space

• Support and encourage classmates

These social experiences help develop empathy, communication skills, and a sense of belonging all crucial for healthy emotional development. It has been so wonderful over the years to see some lovely and strong friendship groups form from our classes!

Creativity that lasts a lifetime

Perhaps most importantly, dance nurtures creativity. In a world where children are often overstimulated by screens, dance offers a chance to imagine, explore, and create with their whole body.

The benefits of choosing a school like Siegeris Dance that follows the Royal Academy of Dance syllabus is the beautiful way the syllabus is scaffolded and carefully constructed, really enabling the strong foundation for the building blocks of so many Ballet steps. 

Our youngest dancers from Pre school through to Primary learn these foundational steps through creativity, props, storytelling, carefully chosen music along with the Siegeris Dance lesson structure that Mrs Jennifer has developed with her 20 + years of teaching experience. 

Creativity isn’t just about dancing in class, it’s about thinking differently, adapting, and expressing ideas. These are skills children will carry with them for life.

Why choose Siegeris Dance?

At Siegeris Dance, we understand that every child is unique. Our teachers are hand picked and chosen by Mrs Jennifer and our classes are designed to support both brain development and joy, in a nurturing and inspiring environment. We focus on:

• Age-appropriate teaching

• Positive encouragement

• Strong technical foundations

• A love of movement and music

Whether your child dreams of performing or simply loves to move, dance provides benefits that go far beyond just dance class.

Give your child the gift of dance

Dance isn’t just an extra

curricular activity, it is so much more! It’s an investment in your child’s developing brain, confidence, and happiness.

If you’re looking for an activity that supports learning, wellbeing, and creativity all at once,

Siegeris Dance would love to welcome your family.

Visit our website www.siegerisdance.com to book your trial class with us!