Although arts like drawing and singing are introduced from an early age through finger painting or nursery rhymes, there often isn't enough emphasis put on the early importance of dancing.

Dancing is innate in children even before they begin to talk or read and write. When thoughts or emotions are too powerful for words to contain, dancing is a wonderful outlet which is just as present in babies and toddlers as it is in adults.

Ulverston mums and babies group Wriggle & Jiggle has been popular with local families since it was set up in 2015 by dance teacher Louise Walton, who specialises in physical growth, communication, language skills and dance within the Early Years curriculum.

Louise, 45, from Ulverston said: "I run the sessions alongside activities co-ordinator Hannah Paling and we are passionate about getting the under fives moving in these dance sessions and Little Ballers.

"What we want to do is make a child's first session a positive one, so they are encouraged to come back week after week and continue to build their motor skills and confidence."

Dance is a powerful ally for developing many of the attributes of a growing child, it helps children mature physically, emotionally, socially, and cognitively. Dance integrates kinesthetic learning with understanding because at a young age children learn best through physical experience.

Louise's class takes place every Thursday morning from 10.15am until 11am and she finds that the children learn best in a relaxed environment where they can move at their own pace, she said: "The children are free to enjoy the many benefits of dance and creativity while letting their imaginations fly.

"Classes enhance body part awareness, counting and language songs alongside social skills. But the ultimate aim is for the children to have plenty of fun! They love their group circle sequences and especially the 'gallop step'."

Louise has specially choreographed and designed the class to help toddlers enhance their co-ordination, rhythm, spatial awareness and social interaction, while engaging in energetic movement, games and exploring funky dance moves.

She also thinks that it is very important encourage parents and carers to join in with the fun.

Louise said: "Children learn through repetition and with this their confidence and enthusiasm grows.

"However, I still change up the themes every half-term so there is always fresh and innovative ideas being created. That way we keep it interesting for the parents too."

Studies have proved that dancing is a natural way to release good endorphins and raise our spirits. It usually incorporates music and is a great way to have fun while keeping fit at the same time. Dance has been proven to help people with dementia too because it has the ability to trigger happy memories.

Encouraging your child to dance from an early age promotes a confidence and high sense of self esteem which can be continued throughout life. Even if a child doesn't go on to be a prima ballerina, being comfortable with the movement of your body and how to interact with others from an early age is so important.