
5 Ways Dance Teaches Kindness
Building empathy and compassion through movement

Jena Minnick-Bull
Dance Director
Dance is not just about learning steps and routines”it's also a powerful tool for teaching important life values like kindness, empathy, and compassion. At South Coast Conservatory, we believe that dance education goes beyond technical skills to help children develop into kind, caring individuals.
Here are five ways that dance classes help children learn and practice kindness:
1. Dance encourages teamwork and collaboration
In dance classes, children learn to work together as a team. Whether they're performing a group routine or helping each other master a difficult step, they develop an understanding of how their actions affect others. This teamwork naturally fosters kindness as children learn to support and encourage their classmates.
2. Dance teaches respect for others
Dance classes create an environment where children learn to respect each other's space, abilities, and differences. They understand that everyone learns at their own pace and has unique strengths. This respect for individual differences is a fundamental aspect of kindness.
3. Dance builds empathy through expression
Through dance, children learn to express emotions and tell stories through movement. This artistic expression helps them develop empathy as they learn to understand and convey different emotions and perspectives. They begin to see the world through others' eyes, which is essential for developing kindness.
4. Dance creates a supportive community
Dance classes provide a safe space where children can be themselves and feel supported by their peers. This sense of community teaches children the importance of being kind to others and creating an inclusive environment where everyone feels welcome and valued.
5. Dance teaches patience and understanding
Learning dance requires patience and persistence. Children learn to be patient with themselves and others as they work through challenges together. This patience naturally extends to other areas of their lives, making them more understanding and kind toward others who may be struggling or learning.
At South Coast Conservatory, we are committed to creating an environment where kindness is not just taught but practiced every day. Our instructors model kindness and encourage students to support and encourage one another.
By enrolling your child in dance classes, you're not just giving them the opportunity to learn a beautiful art form”you're also helping them develop into kind, compassionate individuals who will make a positive impact on the world around them.
Laguna Niguel, CA