Rainbowdance® is an innovative program designed for children and adults, focusing on enhancing self-regulation, self-esteem, and social empathy through movement and expressive arts. This unique one-hour experience guides participants on a symbolic journey into nature and relationships, fostering the development of empowered and self-nurturing children. Recognizing that disruptive behaviors often emerge in preschool years and can persist into adulthood if unaddressed, Rainbowdance® offers a proactive approach to cultivate healthy developmental tools during early childhood. By intervening at this crucial stage, the program helps mitigate potential future behavioral challenges, ranging from aggression to depression. Particularly effective in school settings, Rainbowdance® seamlessly integrates into the educational environment, supporting not only emotional and social growth but also academic progress. Teachers who incorporate Rainbowdance® into their regular classroom practices find it invaluable for building classroom harmony and providing soothing activities to manage moments of stress and promote a positive learning atmosphere.
Rainbowdance® was founded in 1988 by Dicki Johnson Macy, a pioneer in expressive therapy dedicated to the well-being of children and communities. Her work is deeply rooted in the lineage of Isadora Duncan, widely regarded as the originator of modern dance. Dicki Macy draws inspiration from Duncan’s theory of continuous movement, emphasizing sensitivity to the flow of energy within the body, both literally and metaphorically. Under Dicki’s expert guidance, Rainbowdance® has evolved into a powerful tool for children worldwide, promoting physical, emotional, and social competence. Through collective experiences in harmony and cooperation, children participating in Rainbowdance® enrich their lives and develop crucial life skills. As a program supported by the Boston Children’s Foundation, Rainbowdance has been successfully implemented with numerous children, consistently demonstrating its value as an artistic, engaging, and therapeutic intervention. What distinguishes Rainbowdance® from other early childhood programs is its profound simplicity combined with its effective approach to addressing complex developmental needs.
For those interested in experiencing Rainbowdance® firsthand, classes are available in Cambridge.
Click Here for Cambridge Rainbowdance Class Offerings
*Keenan, Shaw, et. al, 1998; Applegate, et. al, 1997
