Discover how creative dance supports young children’s confidence, curiosity, and sense of community. This workshop invites early learning professionals to experience creative dance as a pathway to belonging, expression, and joyful learning. CDC’s BrainDance warm-up and Brain-Compatible Dance Education framework provide simple tools that offer structure while honoring children’s natural love of movement and play.
We’ll explore developmentally appropriate, inclusive activities using the elements of dance and fundamental movement skills that strengthen bodies and brains, such as rolling, spinning, crawling, marching, and leaping, while balancing teacher-led guidance with child-centered discovery. Leave with practical, engaging ideas that build coordination, inspire creativity, deepen connection, and bring meaningful movement into any early childhood setting.

Annie Hughes (she/her) is the dancing mother of two energetic boys and one independent daughter. She believes that dance can be a vehicle to greater creativity and enrichment regardless of age or experience. Annie grew up in Utah where she danced with Brigham Young University’s Children’s Creative Dance Program. In high school she began teaching at local studios and trained with the Step-up program at Ririe-Woodbury dance company. During her undergraduate education, she was a member of various dance groups including Artsbridge, Kinnect, Dancesemble and Contemporary Dance Theater (CDT). As a part of CDT she performed in India and various parts of the United States. She has also studied dance in China and enjoys integrating cultural research into her work. After completing her BA in Dance Education from Brigham Young University, Annie taught dance in the public school system, after-school programs for elementary school children, and various studios. Since moving to Washington she has developed a dance program for the Everett YMCA and taught virtual dance to students across the country. Annie attended CDC’s Summer Dance Institute for Teachers in 2021 and has been part of the Creative Dance Center faculty—and community—ever since.

Note:
Participants should bring a full water bottle and wear comfortable clothing that allows for freedom of movement.

Financial aid available. Contact us for details.