What happens when children understand their emotions through movement?

During three 90-minute workshops, ConnectArt, in collaboration with Gothenburg Opera Dance Company, carried out a physical and creative program for students in grade 5 at Bergsjöskolan.

The work was led by Elin Lütke, ConnectArt, together with Angelina Allen from the Gothenburg Opera, in close collaboration with four professional dancers from the Opera, and was based on a body-based and innovative method developed by ConnectArt.

Through dance, circus, movement, film and shared reflection, the students were able to explore how emotions are connected to needs – and how the body can be a support for listening inwardly and finding balance.

The workshop introduced BEAMS, a bodily tool for self-regulation, as well as the symbolic “chameleon”, which in a playful and age-appropriate way helped the children understand that every emotion carries a need and can provide important information.

The program was implemented with a low threshold and high participation, where play, creativity and a safe structure created space for the children’s own expressions.

“Humans have many emotions within them, such as joy, anger, and love, that make us feel and act in different ways.”