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Inna Kogan on Channel 9: How Dance Builds Resilience for Children in Afula and the North

In the midst of a challenging security situation, where residents of the North and the city of Afula face a reality of sirens and uncertainty, a critical question arises: How do we protect our children’s mental well-being? Inna Kogan, director of the leading ballroom dance school in Afula “SportiDance” , and a certified Physical Education teacher, appeared on Channel 9 for an inspiring interview to answer exactly that.

The interview highlights the crucial role of dance and movement as tools for rebuilding self-confidence and mental resilience in children and youth during times of conflict.

The Importance of Routine and Discipline as an Emotional Anchor

During the interview, Inna Kogan emphasized that routine is the strongest “antidote” to anxiety and helplessness. For a child, knowing they attend the dance studio on fixed days, meeting instructors and teammates, provides stability in an unpredictable world. “As educators, our first priority is the children and their emotional needs above all else,” Inna shared.Ballroom dancing requires high self-discipline, listening to music, and absolute focus on the partner and steps. When a child learns a new sequence in Rumba or Cha-Cha-Cha, their brain enters a state of “Flow,” allowing the nervous system to relax from daily stress.

Dancing Under Fire: From the Studio to Shelters and Zoom Classes

Inna described how, during peak fighting, the activities did not stop but moved to digital spaces and protected areas. The goal was clear: not to leave any child alone with their fears.

“We danced on Zoom from living rooms and did everything to keep the children moving and smiling” Inna shared. As soon as it was safe, the studio returned to physical activity in Afula and Migdal HaEmek. The resilience built through dance during this period is a deep community bond.

Pride in Tbilisi: Ambassadors of Israel on the International Stage

Just before the escalation, the dance team from Afula, led by Inna and Yakir Kogan, represented Israel at a prestigious international competition in Tbilisi, Georgia, returning with trophies and medals.“For children, the experience of international success provides a ‘reservoir’ of positive strength,” Inna explains. This confidence acts as a mental “shield” when they return to the complex reality in Israel.

פיתוח קוגניטיבי וקואורדינציה: הריקוד דורש שילוב נדיר בין קצב, תנועה וזיכרון. מחקרים מוכיחים שריקודים סלוניים משפרים משמעותית את התפקוד הקוגניטיבי ואת היכולת לפתור בעיות תחת לחץ – מיומנות קריטית להצלחה בלימודים ובחיים בכלל.

Why Choose Ballroom Dancing?

Cognitive Development, Coordination, and Physical Fitness

Dance requires a rare combination of rhythm and muscle memory. Research proves that ballroom dancing significantly improves cognitive function and the ability to solve problems under pressure. In our studios, we work on posture, flexibility, and endurance.

Confidence, Public Speaking, and Sense of Capability

At “SportiDance” children learn to present themselves, stand tall, and perform before an audience, building a solid foundation of self-esteem.

Emotional Intelligence and Teamwork

The dance is an international language of hope, teaching respect and cooperation through partner work.

The Children of Afula are the Future – Join Us!

Inna Kogan’s interview on Channel 9 is much more than just a television appearance; it is a reminder that even amidst challenges and complex realities, we have the power to give our children life tools that will serve them forever. Dance is an international language of hope, and at “SportiDance,” it is our way of showing that life is stronger than anything.

We invite you to join our family in Afula, experience the magic of Ballroom and Latin-American dancing, and give your children the gift of resilience, joy, and self-confidence.

Want your son or daughter to join the winning team?
Don’t wait – contact us today to schedule a trial lesson at our professional studio.

Click here to schedule a trial lesson!

Contact Information:

Our Address:
St. Yehoshua Hankin 34, Afula

Call Us:
054-3101029 , 054-4227501

Our Email:
dancekesem@gmail.com