Have you ever asked your child what they would like to be when they grow up? At some point or another many kids will excitedly shout back, “AN ACTOR!” Honestly, it is not that challenging to understand why. Acting is just like playing pretend, and kids love playing pretend and mimicking what they see in the world around them! Learning to act, sing, and dance in theater classes can have great benefits for every child.
Creativity And Imagination
Theatre classes help children learn, play, and grow by exploring the stories of others. Playing the role of another character pushes kids to imagine what life would be like if they were someone else. This helps to generate their imagination and creative response, as well as cultivate empathy in the child.
Teamwork
Your child will learn more about teamwork in the supportive class setting. Of course, when it comes to casting shows, actors compete for roles. However, this is a much different level and intensity of competition than that experienced in sports, especially in theatre classes where every child gets a part. Being in a production helps children learn more about teamwork and accountability as the cast truly must contribute to the entire group effort. As everyone in the cast works together, there is a common goal that is created – putting on a fantastic show! As your child sees others working hard to remember lines and get into character, they will feel compelled to deliver with the same amount of hard work and dedication.
Confidence
Many children find it difficult to speak out in a group setting while maintaining their confidence. This is completely understandable as this is a new skill set that has to be cultivated. The good news is that theatre classes can help even the shyest kids find their inner bravado! No matter whether they are part of a musical theatre class or production, play, acting workshop, or drama summer camp, the more time kids spend acting and performing the more their confidence skyrockets! The best part about building confidence through theatre is that children can take this incredibly useful and necessary skill into so many other aspects of their lives.
Theatre classes provide much more than a welcomed creative outlet for kids. So many of the skills they learn in theatre will continue to benefit them in school, social situations, and even their career. What could possibly be better than providing an activity that lets your kids learn and grow while they play? Theater is not just for actors – it is for everyone!