Extra activities
DANCE CLASSES:
Dance classes help in the development of children’s motor skills by teaching dance movements and techniques. Dance exercises engage various muscle groups, promoting motor coordination and strengthening muscles. Learning dance steps and sequences enhances children’s cognitive skills such as memory, concentration, and hand-eye coordination. Dance provides children with the opportunity to express themselves, fostering their creativity and imagination. Children learn to interpret music through their bodies, stimulating their creative thinking. During dance classes, children have the chance to collaborate with other kids, developing social skills such as communication, cooperation, and empathy. Performing choreography together or improvising dances with other participants builds bonds between children.
Activities include:
- Ballroom and disco dance
- Group routines based on popular music and dance hits
- Rhythmic and movement games
- Learning etiquette on the dance floor
- Solo, partner, and group dances
CERAMICS:
Ceramics classes are highly beneficial for the development of preschool children, supporting their motor skills, creativity, concentration, emotional development, as well as social and cognitive skills. Working with clay requires precision and the ability to manipulate small objects. Children use their fingers and hands to shape and mold clay, aiding in the development of fine motor skills and coordination. Ceramics allow children to express themselves by creating unique works of art. They can experiment with various shapes, textures, and colors, enhancing their creativity and imagination. Additionally, working with clay requires patience and focus. Children learn to concentrate on the task at hand and make an effort to achieve the desired result. When children see the results of their work in the form of ceramic objects they’ve created, they can experience a sense of pride and satisfaction in their accomplishments.
ROBOTICS:
Robotics classes involving building and programming robots with elements of the English language provide a fun way to explore the world of computer science and mechanics. Participants develop manual dexterity and spatial imagination through hands-on construction of small robots “animated” by programs loaded onto tablets. It’s a fascinating journey for the youngest into the world of modern technology. Working with robots requires problem-solving and critical thinking skills. Children must analyze situations, draw conclusions, and make decisions to achieve their intended goal. This activity also requires creative thinking. Participants must envision the actions a robot should take to complete specific tasks, fostering innovative and creative thinking. Involvement in such activities can instill a sense of pride in children. Seeing a robot carry out tasks they’ve programmed can motivate them to further their learning and experimentation. Technical skills are increasingly valuable in today’s world, and robotics classes can prepare children for future professional and life challenges by developing skills needed in a technology-based society.
ANIMAL-ASSISTED THERAPY (DOG THERAPY):
Dog therapy in preschool can be an effective tool for supporting children’s emotional, social, and physical development. It increases engagement, reduces stress, develops social and emotional skills, improves communication, and boosts self-esteem. This activity utilizes the presence and interaction with well-trained dogs to support children’s development. Interacting with dogs can be relaxing and calming for children, especially those who struggle with managing their emotions. Dog therapy can help develop children’s social skills by promoting empathy, responsibility, and cooperation. Children learn gentleness and respect for animals. Contact with dogs can also improve children’s concentration and motivation to learn. Animals are effective motivators, encouraging children to complete tasks or exercises. Dogs make excellent companions for those in need of additional emotional support. Playing and working with them can help children feel accepted and safe.
SENSORY ART:
Sensory art is a form of artistic activity that focuses on sensory experiences through the manipulation of various sensory materials such as sand, clay, water, paints, fruits, vegetables, and food products. The main goal of sensory art is to stimulate the senses, foster creativity, and offer children opportunities for discovery and experimentation. Sensory art engages various senses, including touch, sight, smell, and hearing. Children have the opportunity to explore different textures, consistencies, and shapes, promoting their development. It is one of the most effective forms of play and relaxation for children. Manipulating sensory materials is often perceived as enjoyable and relaxing, helping children relieve stress and tension. It undoubtedly stimulates creativity and imagination in children by encouraging them to experiment and realize various, even the most imaginative, ideas.
PHYSICAL ACTIVITIES – KANGAROO:
PHYSICAL ACTIVITIES – Kangaroo is an initiative aimed at promoting a healthy lifestyle and physical activity while also supporting the comprehensive development of children through play, movement, and social integration. Its main goal is to encourage children to engage in regular physical activity through various games, activities, and physical exercises. The program allows children to interact with peers, which promotes building social relationships and developing communication and cooperation skills. It is one of the platforms for health education for children, where basic information about healthy eating, personal hygiene, and the importance of regular physical activity for health is conveyed. These activities contribute to creating a friendly and joyful environment in which children can enjoy movement and physical activity, fostering a positive attitude toward it from an early age.