She is afraid, or is it insecurity, or both? You can see she wants to dance. She tries some of the moves in the observation area as she watches the rest of the class on the floor. She runs to the bar when the class heads there to stretch and play. This is Sylvie, our granddaughter, at ballet class last month.
Usually one to approach other children, introduce herself and talk, Sylvie clings to me when I encourage her to participate. All the dancing she did watching Angelina Ballerina was not enough to give her the confidence to attempt this interesting though scary adventure.
The teacher looks her way, says her name and Sylvie runs to participate, only to run back to me again after a few movements. When it's over one of the other little ballerinas standing nearby, looks at us and says, "I want her to get on the floor," as Sylvie listens. It makes her smile. What a great friend!
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Two weeks later, Sylvie participated for the second half of the class and was disappointed when it ended. The following week, she talked about the class and wanted flowers for the teacher. That week she danced for the entire class. Every week now she is eager to go and participates with energy and enthusiasm.
The next time Sylvie tries something new and appears to be anxious, we will remind her about ballet, her initial fear and how she overcame it. Confidence comes with experience at various activities.
It is wonderful to watch our little granddaughter work through her fears, learn and grow in so many ways.
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