The Ultimate Guide to Hip Hop Dance Styles for Parents

Welcome, awesome parents! Are you looking to dive into the world of hip hop dance alongside your kids? Well, you’ve come to the right place! Hip hop is not just a genre of music; it’s a vibrant culture that includes a diverse range of dance styles. Each of these styles has a unique history, technique, and flavor that your kids might love to explore. In this guide, we’ll shimmy through the different types of hip hop dance, so you can become the grooviest parent on the block!

Understanding the Roots of Hip Hop Dance

Before we slide into the different styles, let’s take a quick step back. Hip hop dance originated in the streets of New York in the late 1960s and early 1970s. It’s a part of the larger hip hop culture that includes DJing, graffiti art, and emceeing (rapping). Fast forward to today, and hip hop dance is a global phenomenon, captivating hearts and inspiring dancers of all ages!

Breaking: The Original Hip Hop Dance

Often mistakenly called “breakdancing,” Breaking (or B-boying/B-girling) is the original form of hip hop dance. This highly physical, acrobatic style includes moves like top rock, down rock (also known as “footwork”), power moves, and freezes. If your child loves to spin, flip, and express themselves with bold movements, Breaking might be their jam!

Why is Breaking great for your kids?

• Physical fitness: Breaking is an excellent full-body workout that improves strength, endurance, and flexibility.
• Self-expression: This style encourages individuality and creativity, which is fantastic for building your child’s confidence and character.
• Social skills: Being part of a breaking crew can foster teamwork and a sense of community.

Pop and Lock: The Funky Robots!

Next up, let’s talk about Popping and Locking — often grouped together but are distinct styles under the hip hop umbrella. Popping involves the technique of quickly contracting and relaxing muscles to create a jerking effect, known as a “pop” or “hit.” Locking, on the other hand, involves fast, precise movements followed by “locks” (freezing in certain positions).

Why are Popping and Locking great for your children?

• Body control: Both styles improve coordination and teach precise muscle control.
• Rhythm and timing: To pop and lock effectively, dancers must have impeccable timing, which can benefit musical understanding.
• Creativity: These styles allow for a lot of personal expression, humor, and storytelling.

Krumping: Unleash the Energy

Is your kid always bouncing off the walls? Krumping might catch their interest! Krumping is a high-energy, expressive, and raw style that originated in Los Angeles in the early 2000s. It involves complex and fast footwork, sharp movements, and is often an outlet for emotions.

Why is Krumping beneficial for your youngsters?

• Emotional outlet: It’s a powerful form of self-expression that can help kids deal with emotions.
• Physical health: Krumping is an intense physical activity that can contribute to overall fitness.
• Community involvement: Krump sessions often involve “battles,” which can teach respect, sportsmanship, and camaraderie.

As we groove through this guide, remember that the world of hip hop is as expansive as it is exhilarating. And the best part? There’s a dance style out there for every child’s personality. Keep on reading to discover more exciting hip hop dance styles your kids can try out!

We’re just scratching the surface of the vibrant world of hip hop dance. Stay tuned as we dive deeper into more styles like House, Harlem Shake, Jerkin’, and more in the next section. Who knows, you might even find yourself busting a move or two!

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5 Things Parents Should Know in Preparing for Hip Hop Dance

Whether your child is about to embark on their hip hop journey or looking to dive deeper into the culture, here are five essential things to keep in mind:

1. Dress for Success

• Comfortable Clothing: Hip hop is all about movement, so ensure your child is dressed in comfortable, loose-fitting clothing that doesn’t restrict their dance moves.
• Proper Footwear: Good sneakers with a smooth sole support the feet and allow for the slick movements required, especially for styles like Breaking, where footwork is essential.

2. Safety First

• Warm-up: Just like any other sport, a proper warm-up is crucial in preventing injuries. Encourage your child to stretch and warm-up before dancing to ensure their muscles are ready for action.
• Hydration: Keep your kids hydrated! Dancing is an intense activity, and staying hydrated will help them maintain energy levels and avoid heat exhaustion.

3. Finding the Right Dance Class

• Qualified Instructor: A knowledgeable teacher will not only teach the right moves but also the history and culture behind them. They can also tailor the class to fit the age and skill level of students.
• Positive Environment: Look for a dance class that fosters a supportive atmosphere where your child can learn at their own pace and feel encouraged.

4. Respect the Culture

• Cultural Understanding: Hip hop dance is more than just steps to music; it’s an expression of a rich cultural history. Encourage your child to learn about the origins and pillars of hip hop.
• Inclusivity: Hip hop is inclusive and is about bringing people together. Teach your child the importance of respect for all dancers and styles within the community.

5. Practice Patience

• Progress Takes Time: Remind your child that getting better takes practice, and it’s okay to make mistakes along the way. It’s about the journey, not just the destination.
• Celebrate Small Wins: Every new move mastered is an achievement. Celebrate these moments to keep your child motivated and excited about dancing.

As you help your child prepare for hip hop dance, it’s vital to keep these tips in mind for a smooth and fun-filled adventure. Dance is a powerful tool for growth, health, and happiness. So, lace-up those dance shoes, and let’s get the party started!

House: Feel the Groove

Moving on to a style that will get you vibing with its upbeat rhythms, let’s explore House dance. Evolving from the clubs of Chicago and New York in the late ’80s and early ’90s, House is characterized by its soulful music and fluid footwork mixed with floorwork and spins. A great fit for kids who love to groove and flow!

What makes House appealing to children?

• Groove: It’s all about the groove and feeling the music, which can be infectious and exciting for dancers.
• Creativity: House encourages improvisation, allowing kids to bring their own style and personality into the dance.
• Endurance: It’s a great cardiovascular workout that promotes stamina and health.

Your child’s hip hop dance journey is just beginning, and the possibilities are endless. By embracing these fundamental elements and providing support, you’re setting the stage for your child to have a rewarding and energizing dance experience. Stay tuned for even more tips and insights, and remember, hip hop is not only about the steps; it’s about being part of a loving and creative community!

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