Preschool Lesson Plan: Traditional Dance Day

The preschool lesson plan “Traditional Dance Day” is a fun, interactive lesson to be carried out with preschool children aged 4-5 years. Young learners will be introduced to traditional dances with a focus on appreciation of culture and self-expression through movement. It is a well-balanced structured activity with creative exploration for developing motor skills, rhythm, and teamwork.

The session warms up with an activity to get the kids’ energy up and ready to go, followed by an interactive presentation of traditional dances that introduce the kids both visually and auditorily to the cultural meanings behind the movements. Later, the children learn the simple steps of any particular dance decomposed into parts for the sake of ensuring every child can participate and enjoy the process.

Age Group: 4-5 years
Duration: 1 hour
Theme: Celebrating cultural diversity through dance

Learning Objectives

• Teach the concept of traditional dance among preschool children.
• Develop an appreciation for cultural heritage through movement and music.
• Improve gross motor, rhythm, and coordination.
• Enhance teamwork through self-expression.

Materials Needed

• Traditional music is representative of different cultures: for example, drum beats and folk songs.
• Minimal costumes or accessories: scarves, hats, anklets.
• Pictures or short videos of traditional dances.
• Dance space.

Lesson Procedure

1. Warm-Up Activity (10 minutes)
   • Objective: To get the children up and mobile to prepare them for the session.
   • Activity: Play rhythmic music and ask the children to clap, stamp, or sway according to the beat.
   • Example: “Let’s clap to the beats of the drums! One, two, three!”
2. Introduction to Traditional Dances (10 minutes)
   • Objective: To introduce the concept of traditional dances.
   • Present visuals or show a short video of some traditional dance and describe the story behind the dance.
   • Example: “This is a Kandyan dance from Sri Lanka. Look at their wonderful movements and dress.
3. Learning a Simple Dance (20 minutes)
   • Objective: To teach the children the basic movements of a traditional dance.
   • Break down the dance into simple steps and guide the children to practice.
   • Example: Teach a basic step of an African tribal dance: “Step, step, clap! Let’s all do it together!”
4. Creative Expression Time (10 minutes)
   • Objective: Allow children to add their unique moves.
   • Let them dance freely while incorporating steps they have learned.
   • Example: “Now, let’s make our dance! Take those steps you have learned and make them yours.”
5. Cool Down and Reflection (10 minutes)
   • Objective: Wrap up the session with relaxation and sharing.
   • Play soothing music and allow children to gently sway for relaxation. Ask how they felt about the activity.
   • Example: “Did you have fun learning new dance moves? Which one was your favourite?

Assessment

• Observe children’s participation and ability to follow rhythm and steps.
• Note whether they are ready to express themselves and participate in group activities.

Extension Activity

• Invite parents to share some of their traditional dances at a family event at school.
• Create a “Dance Wall” with drawings or pictures of traditional dances the children enjoyed.

Download the Preschool Lesson Plan