Ciranda, Cirandinha: Brazil's Circle Dance
We dance the ciranda, a traditional circle dance from Brazil that moves like ocean waves, with steps in and out. We warm up practicing rhythm, footwork and moving in sync with the group.
How to play
- The teacher explains that the ciranda is danced in Brazil, especially near the sea, and sings the first line of the folk song: "Ciranda, cirandinha, vamos todos cirandar" (1 min).
- Holding hands in a circle, learn the wave step: one step toward the center raising arms, one step back lowering them (1 min).
- Dance around the circle with the wave step while the teacher sings or hums, first slowly and then faster (2 min).
- When the teacher calls "Big wave!" the circle rushes to the center with arms up and back out (1 min).
- Finish with one very gentle wave, let go of hands and shake our bodies like we just got out of the water (1 min).
Rules
- Don't let go of the circle.
- Step in and step back, all together.
- No pushing on the big wave.
- We all sing or hum together.
Variations
Easier
For 3-year-olds, just walk around in the circle and raise arms when going to the center.
Standard
For 4-year-olds, the wave step while the circle turns.
Harder
For 5-year-olds, change direction when the teacher claps and add a spin in place.
Adaptations
- Limited mobility: the wheelchair is part of the circle and the wave is done with the arms.
- Autism: connect the circle with a rope instead of hands and announce each "big wave" ahead of time.
- Hearing impairment: show the beat by moving your hand up and down so children see when to step in.
Learning goals
- Follow a simple step with the group, in rhythm.
- Warm up the body in a joyful way.
- Learn about a traditional dance from Brazil.
Teacher tip
Just learn the first verse in Portuguese and hum the rest; the wave step is what matters. If the circle breaks, stop and join hands again before going on.
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