At JMM Dance Co., we are dedicated to fostering emotional intelligence and self-regulation in young children through our innovative Social-Emotional Learning (SEL) Dance Education Program. Funded by the San Benito Community Foundation, this program is not just about dance; it's a holistic approach to supporting early childhood development. As we serve over 70 students in our pilot program, the positive impacts are becoming increasingly clear: children are discovering their voices, expressing emotions, and learning the critical skill of self-regulation.
The Importance of SEL in Early Childhood Education
In an era where children are confronted with various emotional challenges, equipping them with the tools to understand and manage their feelings is more crucial than ever. Our SEL Dance Education Program provides a unique opportunity for children to engage in movement while learning to articulate their emotions in a safe and nurturing environment. By integrating dance with social-emotional learning, we are cultivating a generation of emotionally aware and resilient individuals.
Program Highlights
Free Bilingual SEL Dance CurriculumOur curriculum is specifically tailored to engage young minds, offering a bilingual format that promotes inclusivity. Through creative movement, children learn vital social-emotional skills, all while having fun!
Teacher and Parent WorkshopsRecognizing the essential role that educators and parents play in a child’s development, we offer workshops that empower them with knowledge and strategies to support their children's emotional growth effectively.
Final Student ShowcaseAt the end of each semester, our students have the chance to shine in a showcase, demonstrating their newfound skills and creativity. This celebration not only boosts their confidence but also strengthens family connections as parents witness their children's progress.
Proud Partnerships with Local Childcare Providers
This school year, we are thrilled to collaborate with exceptional childcare providers committed to serving traditionally underserved populations:
Chavelita's ChildCare
Emma's Home DayCare
ASJUSD Mi Escuelita Preschool
These partners are instrumental in bringing our program to life, ensuring that children from low-income backgrounds have access to transformative educational experiences.
The Impact So Far
The feedback from our participating students has been overwhelmingly positive. We’ve seen children develop a keen curiosity in expressing their emotions and navigating social interactions without the need for external validation. This newfound ability to self-regulate is invaluable, laying a foundation for lifelong emotional resilience.
A Call to Action for Support
As we strive to expand the reach of our SEL Dance Education Program, we invite potential funders and community supporters to join us in our mission. Your contributions can directly impact the lives of children in San Benito and Monterey Counties, allowing us to provide this crucial program to even more preschools and childcare providers.
Together, We Can Make a Difference
At JMM Dance Co., we believe that every child deserves the opportunity to thrive emotionally and physically. By supporting our SEL Dance Education Program, you are investing in the future of our community—empowering children to express themselves, understand their emotions, and grow into confident individuals.
Are you a qualifying daycare provider? Apply now for our free program and help us make a lasting impact in the lives of young children. For more information and to submit an application, click here.
Thank you for your interest in supporting our mission. Together, let’s dance toward a brighter future for our children!
Sincerely,
Veronica Vasquez Garcia
Founder-JMM Dance Co.
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