As parents, we are constantly looking for after-school activities for focus and academic growth. While many see dance as a creative outlet, it is actually a powerhouse for cognitive development through movement.
At Dance 24 Seven Whenuapai, we see a direct correlation between the discipline of our studio and the success our students achieve in the classroom. From boosting mathematical logic to improving literacy, here are five ways our dance programs, including RAD Ballet and ADPA Tap, help your child achieve better school results.
1. The "Maths and Tap" Connection
Tap dancing is essentially applied mathematics. To execute a sequence, a dancer must subconsciously divide musical bars into fractions (quarters, eighths, and sixteenths). This physical embodiment of rhythm helps children grasp complex mathematical concepts like multiplication and division long before they are introduced in school. We have a whole other blog post on this here!
2. Cross-Lateral Movement and Literacy
Many of our dance exercises involve crossing the midline: movements where the left side of the body crosses over to the right. Science shows that cross-lateral movement forces the two hemispheres of the brain to communicate. This strengthens the neural pathways required for reading, writing, and hand-eye coordination.
3. Focus and Executive Function
One of the primary benefits of dance for children is the development of executive function. Learning an ADPA Jazz or Contemporary routine requires intense concentration, working memory, and the ability to plan multi-step tasks. These are the exact skills required to focus on a complex classroom project or sit through a 2-hour school exam.
4. The Discipline of the RAD Syllabus
Our Royal Academy of Dance (RAD) ballet classes teach a level of discipline that is rare in modern extracurriculars. The Top in the World results our students achieve are the result of goal-setting, perseverance, and attention to detail. When a child learns that perfecting a pirouette takes months of practice, they apply that same work ethic to their science or history assignments.
5. Stress Regulation and Brain Health
Academic pressure can lead to high cortisol levels, which actually hinders learning. Dance is a proven stress-buster. The endorphin release from a high-energy Hip Hop class lowers stress, clearing the mental fog and allowing the brain to absorb new information more effectively during study time.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Is dance better for my child's brain than a traditional tutor? While tutors help with specific subjects, dance develops the foundational cognitive skills—like focus, memory, and cross-lateral brain communication—that make all learning easier. It is a complementary activity that supports a child's overall academic resilience.
What is the best age to start dance for cognitive benefits? The earlier, the better! Our Mini Movers and preschool programs focus on spatial awareness and pattern recognition, which are the building blocks for early literacy and numeracy. However, our teen programs are equally vital for helping older students manage the stress of high school exams.
How does "Embodied Learning" work in a dance studio? "Embodied Learning" is the idea that we retain information better when we move our bodies while learning. In our Whenuapai dance studio, students aren't just memorising steps; they are physically "acting out" patterns and rhythms, which research shows improves long-term memory retention.
Are these academic benefits part of the "Top in the World" results at Dance 24 Seven? Absolutely. The focus and discipline required to rank in the Global Top 5 in dance are the same traits that lead to academic excellence. We take pride in being a "third space" where Auckland students develop the mental grit to succeed in all areas of life.
Where can I find after-school activities near Hobsonville that support school focus? Dance 24 Seven is located on Kawakawa Place in Whenuapai. We are a central hub for families from Hobsonville, Westgate, and Kumeū who are looking for high-quality, professional dance training that prioritizes both artistic and cognitive growth.