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Out on the west coast, signs of spring are beginning to emerge: rolling hillsides are covered with brilliant emerald grasses, and flowering cherry and plum trees are beginning to bud. We have rounded the corner of the darkest time of year, and the new blooms are so welcome that people are walking with a spring in their step and a song in their hearts; this is what joy looks like when it is expressed in the body.

We have sayings about this feeling, such as “jump for joy.” Joy does make us feel lighter, like floating. It is such a natural part of being human, such a wonderful part that we all enjoy. Why not celebrate that feeling with movement?

Begin with playing music that inspires the feeling of joy, such as Vivaldi’s Four Seasons. Next, try exploring the basic components of joyful movement. Imagining that your heart is full, try moving across the floor, walking or running, feeling as light and free as possible. To stay light on your feet requires stepping more gently, and slightly on tiptoe. Skipping is another joyful movement, as is any sort of jump. As you skip, encourage students to use their full range of movement, incorporating the arms and upper body. How many different ways can you skip? High, low, fast, slow, turning… there are lots of options. The same holds true with jumping, although there are even more variables to play with. For instance, try jumping with your legs together, split apart, straight, bent, or any other combination.

Once you have explored all of the components of joyful movement, have your students put the pieces together into their personal version of the dance. After letting everyone dance simultaneously, try one last variation by having the students form a large circle and have each student take a turn in the center. Those in the circle can continue dancing in place if they wish, taking care to give the person in the center and the other members of the circle enough room to move.

Spring may not be in the air quite yet, but we can rest assured it is right around the corner. In the meantime, we can carry the associated feelings of hope and joy in our hearts and keep our eyes open for the first signs of new life.

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For more articles and other resources about dance and movement for kids, visit www.griercooper.com and www.becomearealballerina.com.