I suggest that the various groups and the R.S.C.D.S. itself should pass a
resolution welcoming children to events if they have a letter from a
teacher stating that they behave well, are reasonably competent and that
they would be unlikely to cause problems in an adult class. Children
should also be accompanied by an adult who is responsible for their good
behaviour. The letter should indicate their general level of dancing
ability. Children would be asked to leave if their behaviour is poor.
I would really like to see more children's classes. We have a teacher in
town who teaches children occasionally, but we have been unable to
maintain a regular children's class. Our club has scheduled socials
occasionally where children and families were specifically welcomed. The
programs had a lot of simple jigs, reels and ceilidh dances and it was
nice to see some otherwise non-dancing "Dads" get involved, as well.
Incidently, I have occasionally taught simple "up-beat" strathspeys to
children. I think that strathspey music can be very attractive to young
and old.
We taught a "strathspey" called "Pop Goes the Weasel" to several young
groups, including a day care centre. I don't remember where that cute
little dance came from, but I could give an approximate account of the
instructions, if no one else has it. We used the signature tune, played
on the piano ;-).
Hugh Goldie, Saskatoon Scottish Country Dancers, Saskatoon, Canada
xxxxxx@xxxx.xxxxx.xx
