First Moves

For both Physical Education students and teachers

First Moves brings quality arts education to first graders through their Physical Education classes, enhancing PE standards and empowering PE teachers to incorporate creative movement into their curriculum, year-round. First Moves embeds Cowles Teaching Artists into the classroom and includes professional development training for elementary PE teachers, empowering them to incorporate dance vocabulary and concepts into the ongoing curriculum. The residency is built on a four-day structure that allows teaching artists freedom to tailor the experience to the school’s needs.

For young children, first grade is a crucial transitional year. They establish the learning and studying habits they will rely on throughout their education and working life. Dance and creative movement are essential to a first grader’s development because it’s one of the few activities that connect motor skill development with critical thinking, social interaction, and creativity.

Questions about First Moves?

Send an email to our Education & Programs Department at education@thecowlescenter.org