The Relationship between Executive Functions and Dance Classes in Preschool Age Children

Abstract

The development of executive functions is of the utmost importance for academic success at school and the social adaptation of children. Dance class attendance is one of the factors promoting the development of these functions in children. This study was aimed to explore the relationship between extra dance class attendance and executive functions in preschool age children. The executive function level was assessed using NEPSY-II subtests “Sentences Repetition”, “Memory for Designs”, “Inhibition”, “Stаtue”, and “Dimensional Change Card Sort”. The data on extra dance classes were collected by means of a questionnaire for parents. In the study, 86 typically developing 5–6-year-old children participated. No statistically significant differences in executive functions’ levels were discovered in children taking only extra dance classes for at least 6 months and children taking no extra classes. The obtained data plays an important role for the design of further investigations of the topic.

Effect of an Integrated Active Lessons Programme through Playful Maths Games on Self-Concept, Self-Esteem and Social Skills in Preschool Children

“…In addition, active programmes can raise the level of serotonin or norepinephrine [ 14 ]. These physiological adaptations increase motivation and decrease anxiety and stress levels during academic tasks [ 36 , 37 ]. From this perspective, these theories could facilitate self-concept and self-esteem and might optimise social behaviour due to the playful maths games.…”

Efeitos da dança nas funções executivas em crianças: uma revisão integrativa

“…O Censo Escolar apresenta dados que 12% dos estudantes de anos iniciais do Ensino Fundamental possuem dois ou mais anos de atraso no desenvolvimento motor, algo que poderia ser evitado com aulas frequentes de dança 12. Além de contribuir para o desenvolvimento físico, a dança tem fatores que estão associados com a melhoria das funções executivas, como o fato de ser uma atividade organizada com a junção de atividades de habilidades motoras, exercícios aeróbicos e rítmicos 13 . Além dos bons resultados no âmbito motor da criança, também ocorrem mudanças fisiológicas, como o aumento do fluxo sanguíneo, da eficiência das redes neurais, da atividade de certas áreas cerebrais e da estimulação sensório-motora geral, e assim, se associa a melhora das funções executivas 14,15 .…”