Dance Exploration, LLC’s Hip Hop classes at the Castle Rock Rec Center explores the popular urban street style dance as seen on popular shows such as So You Think You Can Dance and America’s Best Dance Crew! Designed around the ‘Dance to Learn!’® Curriculum, our Hip Hop class is designed with the whole child in mind. Each week we explore a new aspect of the Hip Hop dance style whether it be a genre such as break dance vs tutting or Hip Hop terminology such as coffee grinder vs isolations.

 

Hip hoppers learn age appropriate movements and skills that will test their motor development as well as their spatial awareness. The class begins with warming up the muscles with stretches, isolations (moving one body part separately from the others), and fun rhythmic patterns and play. Exercises will focus on the theme that week. For example if the theme is break dancing, more strength exercises such as push ups, sit ups and cardio will be taught to build the strength required for more difficult moves. If the theme is popping and locking, the exercises will be focused more on isolations and robotics. Dancers will learn important number concepts through rhythm exercises such as “stomping” and will play games in memorization to learn dance combos.

 

Dancers work in groups with their peers to further develop their ability to learn manners, patience, and other important life skills. Each Hip Hop class will learn a combo or dance routine to be performed at the Showcase. Combos are taught for mastery of skill and are challenging enough to encourage motivation and determination. Classes end with a free-style circle where kids are challenged to show off their best dance moves while their peers cheer them on!

 

Teachers follow a “Yes!” Environment where the children feel comfortable and safe working with both their instructor and their peers. Educators also encourage children to make the right choices and nurture their self expression.  Hip Hop classes include the Dance Exploration, LLC Family Engagement Program to continue the study of hip hop at home with fun games and activities the whole family can enjoy!