The benefits of Irish dance
Irish dance teachers points to many benefits of Irish dance for the children participating. They learn increased physical skills. They develop body control and coordination. Dance is great exercise. There is also the opportunity to increased mental skills: listening, following directions, increasing attention span, and memorizing steps. Dancing also fosters a healthy competitive spirit. It increases the child's desire to do well and to the best of his/her ability. It helps build self-esteem and increase the child's confidence as he/she develops "stage presence". Dancers build lasting friendships, not only with classmates, but through performing and competing, meeting children from all parts of the city, state, and country. Irish dancing also helps to promote Irish culture. A revival of Irish identity and tradition began in the 1960s. While a young dancer may not comprehend this particular benefit while training, this revival continues!