Beyond Technique: Implementing SEL Practices in Ballet Class

Ballet training is rigorous and demanding, pushing dancers to achieve technical excellence to great standards. But what about nurturing the whole dancer – their mind, body, and emotions? This is where social-emotional learning (SEL) becomes essential.

As mentioned before in our previous blog post (check it out here if you haven't read it!), SEL focuses on developing vital life skills like self-awareness, self-management, social awareness, relationship skills, and responsible decision-making. These skills empower dancers to navigate challenges, build strong relationships, and thrive both in the studio and beyond.

Since the topic of implementation may be brand new for most ballet teachers I want to provide an easy format to follow to begin implementing SEL into the ballet class. Check it out!

3 Key Processes for Implementing SEL in Ballet:

1. Explicit Instruction:

• Teach SEL Skills Directly

  Just as you explain passé and cou-de-pied, dedicate time to defining SEL concepts. Use clear examples and age-appropriate language to discuss self-awareness, managing emotions, empathy, and making responsible choices.

• Provide Opportunities for Practice

  Design activities that allow dancers to apply these skills. This could be through role-playing scenarios about handling stage fright, group discussions on respecting different learning styles, or journaling prompts about personal dance goals.

• Offer Feedback and Guidance

  Observe how students utilize these skills in class. Provide specific and encouraging feedback, helping them identify areas for growth and celebrate their successes.

*Helpful Tips for Instruction: Use visual aids like posters or flashcards to reinforce key SEL vocabulary and concepts.

2. Integration with Ballet Curriculum:

• Infuse SEL into Existing Lessons:  Weave SEL seamlessly into your ballet class (did you see my Instagram post about this? Check it out here). Begin with a mindful breathing exercise to promote focus, use partner work to build collaboration, or select music that evokes specific emotions to explore through movement.

• Ballet as a Vehicle for SEL:  Encourage dancers to connect with different emotions through choreography, tell stories with their movements, and reflect on the challenges and triumphs they experience in their dance journey.

• Create a Supportive Classroom Environment: Foster a sense of community where dancers feel safe to express themselves, take risks, and support each other. Celebrate individual differences and encourage a growth mindset.

*Helpful Tip for Integration: Use across-the-floor combinations to practice social awareness by having dancers navigate the space with respect for others, or incorporate improvisation exercises with a pre-determined objective to encourage self-expression and emotional exploration.

3. Ongoing Reflection and Adjustment:

• Regularly Assess Student Progress: 

  Pay close attention to how dancers are applying SEL skills. Use informal observation, student self-reflection through journaling, or short questionnaires to gather feedback and adjust your approach as needed.

• Seek Feedback:

  Create an open dialogue with your students. Ask for their input on activities and encourage them to share their experiences. Collaborate with fellow dance educators to exchange ideas and best practices.

• Continuous Learning:  

  Stay updated on the latest research and trends in SEL! Attend workshops, read relevant books and articles, and engage in professional development to refine your teaching strategies. Psst.. I'm in the process of completing a comprehensive ebook dedicated to SEL for dancers and dance educators! Be sure to sign up for emails to be the first to know when it drops!

*Helpful Tip for Reflection & Adjustment:  Start with small, manageable changes and gradually incorporate more SEL practices as you and your students become comfortable.

Things not quite working out in your classroom? Check out these troubleshooting tips:

Resistance or Disengagement?

If students seem resistant to SEL activities, frame them as tools to enhance their dance performance and well-being. Explain how these skills can help them manage stage fright, improve focus, and build stronger relationships with their dance peers.

Difficulty with Specific Skills?

If students struggle with a particular SEL skill, provide individualized support and differentiated instruction. For example, if a student has trouble with self-regulation, teach them specific breathing exercises or coping mechanisms.

Time Constraints?

If you have limited class time, integrate SEL practices efficiently. Start with short mindful moments at the beginning or end of class, or incorporate SEL themes into your choreography and feedback.

Ultimately by incorporating these pedagogical processes and troubleshooting tips, you can start creating a dance learning environment that nurtures not just skilled technicians, but also well-rounded, resilient, and emotionally intelligent individuals.

Liked what you read? Comment your takeaways below & let me know what you'd like to read next!