In the dance movement therapy program here at Antioch University New England I have had the chance to work with preschool age kids and their care givers. Once a week I engaged in a practicum with preschoolers and their care giver(s) in a creative movement/play class. We used various props like a parachute, stretchy bands, hand drums, scarfs and matts to facilitate play and interaction.
It was very informative to work with the kids having learned KMPwhich looks at movement/dance from a developmental perspective. The book and experiential learning all seemed to make more sense when applied to kids.
Here is some great NPR audio about kids.
Creative Play Makes for Kids in Control
Old-Fashioned Play Builds Serious Skills
How Children Cope With the Ongoing Trauma of War
For Toddlers, a World Laden with Advertising
