Activity 6: Mirror Dance
Part of Faithful Journeys, Grades 2-3
Activity time: 5 minutes
Materials for Activity
- Music without lyrics (classical, jazz, etc.) and appropriate music player
Preparation for Activity
- Choose music conducive to slow, contemplative movement.
Description of Activity
Tell the children:
Many people think of spiritual activities as quiet time to focus inside yourself. But we can also use our spirituality when we connect beyond words with each other. We're going to try a movement activity that is about staying connected to another person - without touching at all.
Explain that the group will divide into pairs, with each person in the pair designated as a "one" or a "two." The pairs will stand facing each other, fairly close, but not touching. When the music begins, the people who are "ones" will begin to move. The "twos" will mirror their movements, trying to look as much like a mirror reflection of the other person as possible. The goal of the "one" is not to trick the "two," but to move in ways that make it possible for both people to seem connected, mirror images of each other. After a couple of minutes, stop the music and tell the pairs to switch roles, so that the "twos" are initiating the movement and the "ones" are following.
When both sides have had a turn to lead a mirror dance, invite the children to reflect on their experiences. Was it harder to lead or to follow? Do you think you have more of a sense of your spirit when you move wordlessly, together with another person, or by yourself?
Including All Participants
Participants who use wheelchairs or have balance issues can dance using their upper bodies while partners sit facing them. Participants who cannot see can do this activity touching palms with partners.