Preschool Dance Props
Anyone who has ever taught a preschool dance class knows, those classes can be the toughest to teach when you’re not prepared. Keeping a 3 year old’s attention for 45 minutes can be a challenge…let alone a room of 12! Part of being prepared is have a good set of go-to props you can use with your curriculum or to save you in case your lesson plan isn’t working some days (which happens with this age group).
If you feel like you need some new tools in your teacher bag, we have you covered. Below are props that are usually readily available on Amazon. We have also found that Lakeshore Learning is a great place to find props for classes. Primary colors galore!
Do you have some go-to props? Share it in the comment section below.
One more prop: Pool Noodles! Buy a set of four and cut them into four equal length parts to create a set of 16. I didn’t add them in the links below as they can be pricey to ship due to size. Find them at your local retailers in the summer and stock up. People will look at you like you’re crazy walking out of a store with 12 pool noodles, so there’s that! 🙂
Bean Bags
These are great for lots of activities, particularly to use while playing action songs. These come in a handy pack of 12, which should cover most preschool age dance classes. Easy to use easy to replace, this is a go-to for our staff.
Rhythm Scarves
Every ballerina’s favorite. Easy to store, carry, and replace. An inexpensive and indispensable part of any preschool teacher’s prop bag. Our staff still even uses these with our 5-7 year old ballet classes. Kids never get tired of these.
Egg Shakers
Who doesn’t love to shake these? Great for motor skill development and of course, making sounds and rhythms.
Parachutes
These also come in very handy if you happen to offer dance birthday parties at your studio.
Vinyl Spots
Little ones need clear instructions and need to easily find where they need to go next. We use these mainly for obstacle courses, but also for a variety of other activities in class. You can get as creative as you want!
Gonge River Set
These are a little pricier than other props but worth every penny. Each of our rooms has one of these. A bendable, colorful, balance beam that the kids love. We use it for obstacle courses and other activities. They are very durable and they stack to save storage space.
