The focus of today's workshop with Glow Girls was on comprehending anxieties and learning how to turn them into good energy that we can use for performances, particularly dancing. Realising that nerves are something to deal with rather than something to get rid of was comforting. We began by discussing the appearance of nerves in the body. For me, it generally manifests as a rapid heartbeat, trembling hands, and a constricted chest. We reinterpreted such feelings as indicators that the body is preparing to perform rather than as an issue. Already, that mental adjustment had an impact; it felt more like readiness than terror. Box breathing was one of the key methods we learnt. Inhale for four counts, hold for four, exhale for four, then hold once more for four. It felt a little strange at first, but after a few rounds, I could feel my body slowing down. My shoulders lowered, and I started to think more clearly. In the midst of tension, it was like making a pause button.

Below is my reflective journal from these lesson plans. 

Parent & Toddler Dance Classes Plan: Caterpillar Theme

The same concepts found in the logo are expanded upon in this poster to create an eye-catching, welcoming workshop advertisement. Each component has been selected to convey inventiveness, accessibility, and the relationship between dance, music, and narrative.The well-known caterpillar figure is seated on an open book in the middle. The Very Hungry Caterpillar, which is well-known in early childhood settings, is prominently referenced in this. Using this iconography makes it clear that the session is imaginative, story-based, and kid-friendly right away. The caterpillar that emerges from the book alludes to stories "coming to life," which is closely related to how kids will use music and movement to investigate stories.

Below is the logo we created for the Dance With Hope project. Our aim was to create a playful and inclusive logo that was full of movement to communicate the early years workshop which is built around dance, music and story telling. At the centre is a cheerful book character, which represents story telling and imagination. By giving the book a face and placing it in the centre, the design shows that stories are at the heart of the project; they bring everything and everyone together.