2.4 | Interaction with new (junior) students

Enormous appetite for learning: Children have an enormous appetite for learning.

Willingness to learn: In majority of cases students are learning classical dance forms on their own will. They are introduced by the parents to the dance form through observation of a session and they are willing to learn it for themselves.

Enthusiastic: Like all children, they are full of energy and enthusiasm spinning out of control. At the end of sessions if anyone is drained, it is the instructors.

Learning through stories: Teachers if involve them in a way that I can hold their attention, for example using stories adds to the fun in learning experience.

Excitement of learning new things: They are found attentive and excited with wide eyes every time with a hope of learning something new. Being able to perform something new makes them excited to learn more.

Relation to their world goes long way: If the teaching methods include the mentioning of their worlds or the things they can relate to, they seem more interested.

Understood best through fun and games: Fun surprising exercises in a language they understand best, are carried out every now and then are very helpful in holding their attention and retaining their interest.

Concern if missed out: They don’t like the feeling of missing out on what is being taught. Not attending classes or arriving late becomes a concern for them.

Questioning mind: They have a very interesting questioning mind developed at this age which needs constant fodder.

Building relationships: They are very affectionate with the teacher who teaches them. Also tend to form long lasting friendships as they share common interests.

Crave for individual attention: Majority of the students in this age group want to stand out in the group for performing the best.

Acknowledgement: Almost all the students like being appreciated during the dance sessions. A simple acknowledgement can go a long way to give the child a boost and reason to continue pouring efforts.