Dance for Sensory Regulation to Increase Positive Classroom Behaviors

Authors

Breland Paline, University of St. Augustine for Health SciencesFollow
Cassandra Nelson, University of St. Augustine for Health SciencesFollow

Files

Description

Children have a primary occupation of play; however, children who are of elementary school age, 5-11 years old, also have a primary occupation of education. Through literature reviews, it has been found that dance can increase positive classroom behaviors such as creativity, classroom participation, and emotional regulation. A needs assessment was completed to gather a baseline of classroom behavior and information regarding the target population. Based on responses from the needs assessment, this program was curated for first-grade, second-grade, and third-grade classes. Classroom teachers completed a pre-survey related to student behaviors in the classroom, such as before and after physical education class, as well as the number of breaks needed throughout the lessons. Teachers reported that students required increased redirection before attending physical education class and returning to class. A dance was implemented in physical education class several times a week for 7 weeks. Students were also provided cool-down strategies when feeling different emotions throughout the day. Post-implementation surveys determined that students responded well to the program, demonstrating decreased need for redirection, thus preparing them for success in their learning. Students also demonstrated a desire to participate in dance instruction and reported the use of cool-down strategies in class when feeling as though they needed a break.

Publication Date

Summer 8-5-2024

Publisher

University of St. Augustine for Health Sciences

Keywords

Dance therapy, Children, Occupation, Emotional regulation, Physical education

Medical Subject Headings

Dance therapy, Children, Occupation, Emotional regulation, Physical education

Disciplines

Occupational Therapy | Recreational Therapy

Comments

Poster presented at an in-person OTD Capstone Symposium for the University of St. Augustine for Health Sciences on August 19, 2024.

Recommended Citation

Paline, B., & Nelson, C. (2024, August 5). Dance for Sensory Regulation to Increase Positive Classroom Behaviors. Poster presented at the Virtual OTD Capstone Symposium, University of St Augustine for Health Sciences. Retrieved from https://soar.usa.edu/otdcapstonessummer2024/10