Jugend

The role of the Gaujugendvertreter (youth leader) is to help the member Vereine with their youth and promote the culture of dance, music, language, and Tracht. He or she develops and encourages new programs.

One responsibility is overseeing the Jugendeinzelplatteln (couples dancing for youth) that has been at every Gaufest since its introduction at the 2001 Gaufest. Children from 6-16 may take part, participating in three age categories. Their performances are critiqued by a panel of judges, offering useful feedback to the young, enthusiastic dancers.

Jugendeinzelplatteln and Jugendeinzelpreisplatteln

For more information about Jugendeinzelplatteln, see the rules and scoresheets at the link below. The rules for Jugend Einzelpreisplatteln (newly added competition for ages 13-15) have been updated to decisions approved at the 2012 Delegates Meeting and were updated on this website on January 10, 2013. 

Jugend Einzelpreisplatteln Rules 2013

Jugend Einzelplatteln Rules

Youth Workshop at 2011 Gaufest

Vroni Menzinger, Gaujugendvertreterin for the Huosigau Gauverband in Bayern, taught a workshop at the 2011 Gaufest on how to conduct a practice for young people.  She prepared a handout with some hints and tips, as well as three fun game-dances to play with children (although adults seem to enjoy them just as much!).  Click on the link below for a copy of the handout.  Vroni also taught the dance "Siebenschritt," which is available under the heading of "Dance" on this website.

Songs, Games, and Dances for Children

Tanzspiele

Gauverband I in Bayern has published instructions for 11 different games that are set to music.  These games are especially fun for children, but all ages can have fun with them.  Check out their website for almost 30 Volkstänze as well as the link to "TANZSPIELE" at this link:  http://www.gauverband1.de/Tanze/tanze.html          (added November 2011)