Like many young girls, Eva longs to dance. But unlike many would-be dancers, Eva has cerebral palsy. She doesn’t know what dance looks like for someone who uses a wheelchair.
Then Eva learns of a place that has created a class for dancers of all abilities. Her first movements in the studio are tentative, but with the encouragement of her instructor and fellow students, Eva becomes more confident. Eva knows she’s found a place where she belongs. At last her dream of dancing has come true.
Discussion Questions
- What does dance mean to Eva? Why is it so important to her?
- How do Eva’s classmates and teacher respond to her at first? How do those responses change?
- What challenges does Eva face and how does she respond to them?
- How do you think Eva feels when she is told she cannot dance? What clues in the story help you understand her feelings?
- What could her classmates have done differently to be more supportive from the beginning?
- Have you ever seen or experienced a moment where someone was left out? What could have made it more inclusive?
- Why is it important to keep trying even when something is hard or others doubt you?
- Can you think of a time when you had to work hard to do something others thought you couldn’t?
- What can we do in our classroom or family to make sure everyone feels included?
- How can we support someone who wants to try something new or challenging?
- If you were Eva’s friend, what would you say or do to encourage her?
Activity
“Everyone Can Dance” Movement Activity
Goal: Celebrate different ways of moving and expressing yourself
How it works:
- Invite students or family members to spread out in a safe space.
- Give prompts like:
- “Show me a dance using only your hands.”
- “Move your body in a way that shows joy.”
- “Dance sitting down, slowly, or in a way that feels comfortable to you.”
- Emphasize that there is no “right” way to dance—everyone’s movement is valid and unique.
Reflection questions:
- How did it feel to move in your own way?
- What did you notice about how everyone danced?
- Why is it important to make space for all kinds of movement?