Movement Beats Screens
How Our Devon and Cornwall Dance and Theatre Classes Help Children Learn in a Smartphone Childhood
Movement beats screens and at Magical Tots and the Magical Days Theatre School, we live by this motto.
In today’s technology driven world, many children are growing up in what experts call a smartphone childhood. Screens are everywhere, from televisions and tablets to mobile phones, and our youngest children are increasingly glued to them.
But what does this mean for their development? And how can we help them learn, grow and thrive in the real world?
We believe movement beats screens — and that the best learning happens when children are on their feet, not in front of a device.
Our toddler and early years children’s dance classes near me are designed to prioritise physical engagement, creativity and joy from 18 months to 5 years old. For primary school-aged children (4–11), our musical theatre and Magical Cheerleading Club (MCC) classes build confidence, communication and coordination — all through movement, not screen time.
Why Movement Beats Screens for Child Development
While digital tools can play a role in education, studies show that too much screen time can negatively impact sleep, emotional regulation and focus.
On the other hand, movement beats screens when it comes to activating the brain, boosting mood, and supporting gross and fine motor skills.
Shonette Bason-Wood, founder of Spread the Happiness and a leading voice in Early Years education, is a strong advocate for reducing screen reliance. Her research-backed approach promotes dancing, laughing and learning through movement — a philosophy we share wholeheartedly.
At Magical Tots and Magical Days Theatre School, we integrate music, rhythm and play into every lesson. Our children don’t just dance for fun (although that’s a big part of it) — they’re learning through movement in ways that help them focus better, express emotions and build lasting confidence.
What Makes Our Classes a great alternative
If you’re searching for dance classes for 3 year olds near me, dance classes for 4 year olds near me or dance classes for 5 year olds near me, you’ll find that our sessions are more than just physical activity — they’re an experience.
In every session, your child will:
- 🧠 Improve focus and attention span
- ❤️ Boost physical and emotional wellbeing
- 🌟 Build confidence and creativity
- 👫 Learn teamwork and independence
- 📵 Reduce screen time with real-world fun
From parachute games and superhero moves to cheerleading routines and storytelling, our sessions give children a screen-free zone to explore and grow.
Our children’s dance classes near me take place weekly across Devon and Cornwall — including Bideford, Barnstaple, Okehampton, Crediton, Bude, Holsworthy, Bradworthy and South Molton. With added perks like soft play and seasonal performances, we offer families a full, immersive experience rooted in our belief that movement beats screens.
Learning Through Dance: The Proof That Movement Beats Screens
Dance is a proven educational tool. According to child development experts, children learn best when their bodies and brains are engaged together.
Music, movement and rhythm stimulate memory and concentration — making learning through dance not just fun but incredibly effective.
Our kids dance classes near me support the development of:
- Emotional regulation
- Spatial awareness
- Listening and memory skills
- Social interaction and empathy
Through dance, we replace screen-based stimulation with natural movement, laughter and connection — because movement beats screens every time.
Bringing Movement Beats Screens Into Schools and Nurseries
We collaborate with forward-thinking schools and nurseries across the South West to deliver sessions that support the EYFS curriculum. Our approach is inclusive and multi-sensory, helping all learners, including those with SEND — to explore academic concepts through dance.
Whether it’s exploring shapes through movement or acting out stories to improve comprehension, we embed key learning areas across all our sessions. Performing arts provide children with a unique platform to develop confidence and communication skills in a screen-free environment.
If you’re an educator who believes that movement beats screens, we’d love to hear from you.
Ready to Replace Screen Time With Movement?
Our dance and theatre classes offer a fun, safe and developmentally rich alternative to screen time. Whether your child is twirling with a ribbon or leading a cheer, they’re learning skills that will last a lifetime.
📍 Available across Devon and Cornwall
✨ For ages 18 months – 11 years
🎭 Toddler dance, musical theatre, cheerleading
📵 Movement beats screens — every single week
Ready to swap screen time for sparkle time?
Visit our class timetable to book your magical class now
