2 September 2020 09:00

The RAD and Emma Watkins from The Wiggles prepare young children for a safe return to dance

The RAD and Emma Wiggle from the acclaimed musical group ‘The Wiggles’ have collaborated on a short film to reassure young children that dance class is still a safe and fun place, despite COVID-19 safety measures.

The film, which features Emma returning to dance class to see her friends, shows step by step some of the new safety measures that children might encounter.  From leaving parents at the studio front door, to hand sanitising before entering, right the way through to dancing with social distancing, Emma prepares children for how they will safely return to dance classes. The film aims to provide reassurance to both children and parents that the dance studio is a safe place and that classes will return a spring to their step after months of staying at home!

The RAD believes that the safe return to activities, particularly dance, has an important role to play, now more than ever, in supporting the physical and mental well-being of children, who have been at home with reduced social contact and physical activity. This is particularly pertinent as Sport England has warned that physical activity for children was significantly reduced during lockdown, with 44% of children doing no activity or less than 30 minutes per day.

As dance schools are well placed to manage COVID-19 measures for a safe return to the studio, the RAD wants to ensure that young children and parents feel confident to go back to dance classes, to enjoy the many benefits dance provides.

Watch the video

RAD Artistic Director, Gerard Charles said: “Despite being an incredibly challenging time for independent business owners, such as dance studios, RAD Teachers across the globe have rallied their communities through online dance classes, giving students a space to connect with their friends and a hint at normality. However, nothing can compare to a class taught in person."

Emma Watkins said: "Working with the RAD on this film as Emma Wiggle, I am hoping to reach out to young dancers, and aspiring future dancers, around the world. We would like to bring awareness to dance as a safe place for them to have fun, explore movement and find normality amidst the pressures of the outside world. The connection and creativity that dance class provides is so beneficial for this age group.”