Write dance notation
Learn to write simple dance notation by creating symbols and diagrams to record steps, directions, and timing, then notate and perform a short routine.
Step-by-step guide to write simple dance notation
Dance Tutorial for 3 to 7 years Kids | 5 Basic Steps | Deepak Tulsyan | G M Dance | Part 5 #withme
Step 1
Pick 4 to 6 simple dance moves you already know like step forward jump turn clap
Step 2
Decide how many counts you will use for one phrase such as 8 counts
Step 3
Draw a small symbol for each move on your paper
Step 4
Write the name of each move next to its symbol
Step 5
Draw arrows or small compass marks to show directions for your moves
Step 6
Use your ruler to draw a line of 8 boxes or circles to represent counts for one phrase
Step 7
Put the move symbols into the boxes in the order you want them performed
Step 8
Add L or R or a tiny foot drawing under symbols to show which foot to use or which way to face
Step 9
Color or highlight any symbols that need extra attention so they stand out
Step 10
Practice the sequence slowly while counting the boxes out loud and following your notation
Step 11
Make one clear change to any symbol or mark that was confusing and rewrite that part neatly
Step 12
Perform your short routine from your paper three times to feel confident
Step 13
Share your finished dance notation and a short description or video of your performance on DIY.org
Final steps
You're almost there! Complete all the steps, bring your creation to life, post it, and conquer the challenge!
Help!?
What can we use if we don't have a ruler or colored markers for drawing the line of 8 boxes and highlighting symbols?
Use the straight edge of a book or a piece of cardboard to draw your line of 8 boxes and substitute colored pencils, crayons, or small stickers to color or highlight any symbols that need extra attention.
My symbols and direction marks get confusing when I try to practice—how can I fix that?
Follow step 11 by making one clear change: rewrite the confusing symbol larger, add a short name next to it and an arrow or L/R under it, then practice the sequence slowly while counting the boxes out loud to check it matches your notation.
How should I adapt this activity for different ages or skill levels?
For younger kids, choose 3 simple moves and make a 4-count phrase with stickers for symbols, while older kids can pick 6 moves, keep an 8-count phrase, add direction arrows and L/R foot marks, and combine phrases for more complexity.
What are some ways to extend or personalize the dance notation after I finish the three performances?
Record a short video to share on DIY.org, create a legend page explaining your custom symbols and colors, and extend the routine by joining two 8-count lines into a 16-count phrase with highlighted tricky moves.
Watch videos on how to write simple dance notation
Dance Tutorial for 3 to 7 years Kids | 5 Basic Steps | Deepak Tulsyan | G M Dance | Part 4 #withme
4 Videos
Dance Tutorial for 3 to 7 years Kids | 5 Basic Steps | Deepak Tulsyan | G M Dance | Part 4 #withme
Kids Dance Tutorial | Part 2 | Dance Classes for Kids | Easy Dance Steps for Kids | Choreo N Concept
Easy Kids Dance Tutorial AGES 5+) | MihranTV
Dance Tutorial for 3 to 7 years Kids | 5 Basic Steps | Deepak Tulsyan | G M Dance | Part 3
Facts about dance notation and choreography for kids
⏱️ Notation often includes counts and rhythm symbols so dancers know exactly when to move—just like beats in a song.
📜 Benesh Movement Notation was invented in the 1950s and is still used by ballet companies to write down whole performances.
🎭 Famous choreographies are preserved with notation so dances can be taught again decades later, keeping them alive.
🕺 Labanotation (Kinetography Laban) uses a vertical staff and special symbols to show a dancer's body parts, direction, and timing—like musical notes for movement.
👣 Simple dance notation can be made with arrows, footprints, and numbers so anyone can follow a step-by-step movement map.
How can I teach my child to write simple dance notation and perform it?
What materials do I need to write dance notation with my child?
What ages is learning dance notation suitable for?
What are the benefits of teaching kids to write dance notation?
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