Tackling Learning Difficulties With the Art of Dance and Movement in Preschool Age in the Greek School

Abstract

One of the main problems in the recent years that have been a matter of concern not only to teachers but also to other parties close to school life, is the treatment of children with learning disabilities. These difficulties act as an inhibiting factor in the educational progress of students and can even lead to social problems. This research work deals with the case study of students attending an integration section within a general class and their diagnosis’ states: Mixed Developmental Disorders, Hyperactivity and Dyspraxia of subtle and agile mobility. The survey was conducted in a kindergarten of the Region of Epirus during the school year 2017-2018. Dance, movement, musical and kinetic games as forms of artistic expression according to the New Curriculum of the Kindergarten, were used as tools throughout all of the Cognitive Domains of the programme. Our purpose was the development of corporal consciousness, strengthening self-confidence and self-esteem, preventing and addressing mental, emotional and psychosomatic problems, reducing hyperactivity and dyspraxia of subtle and agile mobility. Through choreographies, musical performances, taking on a role or contacting diverse materials, the pupil is free to express himself/ herself and has the ability and flexibility to move any way he/she desires. Body movement, motion coordination, and body image thematics can help achieve the developmental goals.