4th Grade Residency Program

A good dance partner is a partner that makes you feel like you can do it. For instance, they try and help you learn the dance steps.

— 4th Grade Student, Ascot Elementary, LAUSD

Social Dance Lessons

A fun introduction to Social Dance, Conga Kids’ 4th Grade Program includes…

10 lessons for every classroom, taught once weekly by a Conga Kids teaching artist-in-residence. (45-50 minutes per classroom, weekly).
Culturally diverse lessons in African and African Diasporic Social and Partner dances, including West African Lamban, Merengue, Dazón, and Disco Funk!
This is an early introduction to one of our Grade 5 routines. Merengue!
Inclusive dance instruction, using a “lead and follow” approach rather than gender-based partnering.
Explicit integration of CASEL’s social and emotional learning framework, helping students develop essential tools for a successful life!

The Dances

Lamban

FOUNDATION!
Lamban originated in West Africa. Lamban and other African dance/ music traditions have been kept alive through the African Diaspora!
Merengue

COMMUNITY!
Merengue is a popular social dance and music style from the Dominican Republic. It is rooted in the West and Central African movement and was also influenced by Cuban & European dance and music styles.
Dazón

CONFIDENCE!
During colonization, Europeans brought these “Country Dances” to Cuba, where they blended with Afro-Cuban dance and music styles. Danzón is now much more popular in Mexico, where it is danced in public squares, parks, and dance halls! In Mexico, Danzón is danced by people of all ages.
Disco-Funk

INDIVIDUALITY!
Disco originated in the United States in the early 1970s. Disco blended African-American styles like Motown, Funk, and Soul, and Afro-Latin music like Salsa and Cha Cha Cha to create music that made people want to DANCE!

Our 4th Grade Residency Program is priced per participating classroom, with required full-grade-level participation.