How do you introduce basic rhythms?

In my first beginner class, I teach basic balboa rhythms. I always start  with quick steps. We do these solo in a circle and then I have students move around the room reminding them to step on each count. I introduce the idea of keeping feet more on the floor instead of picking up the feet for each step. When I move into gather steps, I discuss offsetting my footwork and placing them in a “check mark” position.  We practice the step gather moving forward and backward. Slow steps can be taught by having students walk in a circle, stepping on every two counts. I also have students move backward. I discuss flowing through the slow step. Mickey and Kelly have great balboa solo exercises. You can join their patron site here: https://www.patreon.com/bePatron?c=675906