If you’re looking for a fun and energetic way to get your kids moving, look no further than jazz dance! Jazz is a great way to teach children about rhythm and movement and help improve coordination, flexibility, and strength. Jazz is all about expression, so it’s a kind of dance that grownups and kids can both do.
In this article, we will discuss the different types of moves that are common in children’s jazz dance classes.
13 Jazz Steps Your Child Should Learn
Jazz refers to a range of styles that have developed since the early 20th century. Jazz is known for its high energy and expressive movements and many jazz dancers use elements of classical ballet technique, such as turns and leaps, in their routines.
While the true essence of jazz is to let loose and have fun, there are some techniques and dance moves that are more popular. Below, we list 13 of the most popular jazz dance steps your child will learn.
Box Step/Jazz Square.
The jazz square or box step is a series of four quick steps that are often used to transition between other moves.
Pas de Bourrée.
The pas de bourrée is often used as a way to travel across the floor or to transition from one dance step to another.
Ball Change.
Ball changes are often used in jazz as a way to change directions or complete a turn.
Chassé.
If your child attends a jazz studio, they may learn a chassé. The chassé is another common jazz move, which involves sweeping one leg out to the side.
Pencil Turn.
The pencil turn is done by turning swiftly on the balls of the feet while keeping the legs straight.
Hitch Kick.
The hitch kick is a movement where one leg kicks out to the side while the other leg remains in place.
Axel Turn.
The axel turn is a pirouette-like move that you might see in jazz where the dancer jumps into the air and spins before landing on one foot.
Pirouette.
A pirouette is a 360-degree spin, usually performed on one foot. To execute a jazz pirouette, you will need to have good balance and control of your body.
Jazz Walk.
The jazz walk is a movement that is commonly used to travel across the stage. To do a jazz walk, simply start by walking forward on your toes.
Barrel Turn.
The barrel turn is another movement that is often used in jazz routines. Barrel turns are great for adding dynamics to a routine and can be executed quickly or slowly depending on the tempo of the music.
Fan Kick.
A fan kick is a move where you extend one leg out to the side and then snap it back into place.
Jazz Hands.
Jazz hands are another popular move in jazz that involves extending both arms out to the sides and then snapping your fingers.
Stag Leap.
Stag leap is a move where you extend one leg out to the side and then jump up in the air, bringing your leg back down in front of you.
Jazz Dance Classes at Performing Dance Arts.
Now that you know the basic dance steps your child will learn in jazz dance classes in Toronto. At Performing Dance Arts, we teach children of many ages in a variety of dance styles, including jazz. All our instructors at our jazz studio in Maple are experts in their style and are great at imparting their knowledge onto the next generation of dance stars.
When your child takes lessons at Performing Dance Arts, they will greatly improve their fitness and confidence. Our studio teaches dance arts and skills that will serve your child well throughout their entire life.
Contact us today to register your child or learn more about our children’s dance classes in Toronto.
