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Can dance transform a child's entire world beyond just physical fitness? Join us on this enlightening episode of the SJ Child Show, where we sit down with Terrell from Once Upon a Dance to uncover the myriad ways dance can enhance children’s lives. From boosting brain and body coordination to enhancing social skills and mental health, Terrell shares her incredible journey from being a dance teacher to becoming an author, crafting interactive stories that get kids moving and thinking creatively. Her personal anecdotes reveal the profound impact of dance on confidence, creativity, and problem-solving abilities for both children and adults.

Our conversation takes a deeper turn as Terrell reflects on her passion for dance and her commitment to giving back through her books. Inspired by her Peace Corps experience and a strong sense of service, Terrell describes how the COVID lockdown was the catalyst for creating the "Once Upon a Dance" series. With 20 books now in the "Dance It Out" collection and more technical guides for pre-professional dancers, each title is a testament to the universal and healing nature of dance. Learn about the self-taught skills and the collaborative efforts with illustrators that brought these stories to life, each one filled with whimsical illustrations and life lessons designed to inspire young dancers.

Finally, we spotlight the importance of community support and advocate for the preservation of the arts in schools. Highlighting how essential it is to back local businesses and musicians, especially in terms of donations and writing reviews, Terrell emphasizes the neurological benefits of engaging children in creative activities. Hear our heartfelt appeal to parents to recognize and promote the arts in their children's education, ensuring that despite budget cuts, the transformative power of dance and creativity continues to flourish in future generations.

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