Not "copy me": why modern methodology starts with understanding movement
Why IDC does not simply demonstrate movements but teaches children to move consciously: biomechanics, a base in classical and folk choreography, and safe loading for a child.
Many people picture a dance class simply: the teacher shows the movements, the children copy them, and in time that adds up to a routine.
At IDC the approach is different. Senior teacher Yuniia Furman is convinced that it matters for a child not only to learn to execute a movement but gradually to understand what their body can do and to develop it safely.
Why understanding movement matters
In recent years choreography has paid ever more attention to biomechanics — understanding how the human body works while moving.
For a teacher, that means being able to judge what loads a child is already ready for and what needs time and gradual preparation.
"What matters to me is not simply teaching a child a movement but understanding how to build up to it properly. It is a constant learning process for the children and for the teacher alike."
That is why classes are built up gradually: not by forcing results but through consistent development.
Why classical and folk choreography still matter
Yuniia is convinced that contemporary choreography has to rest on a solid foundation.
She trained in folk choreography and also studied classical dance, and it is that experience that helps her in her work today.
"Classical choreography is a very important base. It builds a culture of movement that then helps you develop in contemporary choreography."
Many of the principles used in class hold true whatever the style. The only difference is that today children are not simply shown an exercise but told what it is for and gradually taught to work with their own bodies correctly.
What this gives a child
The result of this approach is not only a well-executed routine.
A child gradually learns to feel their body better, to move more consciously and to master new technical elements safely.
It is a process that does not end after a year of classes. The teacher keeps learning right along with the children.
"The more I learn myself, the better I can help children develop safely and effectively."
That is why classes at IDC are built not on the principle of "copy me" but as a sequential process of development, in which every new skill rests on the one before it.
Who builds this methodology at IDC: "Yuniia's road".
What the direction includes and what a child can do after a year: "Contemporary choreography in plain words".