Participating in the performing arts can open up many different opportunities for children. Also it can help them develop a number of important skills. Theatre can provide a welcome relief from academic subjects. Particularly for children who struggle with their school work. It gives them a chance to explore and express themselves. Read on to learn more about the benefits of theatre school for children from a drama school in North London.
Social skills
First off, attending a theatre school enables children to interact with people from all walks of life who share the same interests as them. They will learn to work as part of a team where everyone has an individual role to play to achieve a shared goal, such as putting on a performance, and about accountability to a group. Their interpersonal and communication skills will be enhanced. Additionally, they may develop strong friendships with children outside their normal social circle.
Increased confidence
Working as part of a team boosts children’s self-esteem. Especially as they learn they are valued for their contribution. This in turn increases confidence, as does performing in front of an audience and receiving praise for it. Through the process they might learn to manage feelings of anxiety and work through them. This will help them whenever they feel nervous about something in the future.
A broader perspective
Getting involved in theatre gives children a new perspective on life as they’re exposed to different ways of thinking and doing things. They’ll also develop an increased tolerance for alternative opinions and viewpoints, and realize the world is not as black and white as they might once have thought. This broader perspective will help them see their normal environment and the people in it in a different way.
Cognitive skills
Participating in the performing arts enhances a number of different cognitive skills, including children’s ability to listen to directions and concentrate, memorise information and instructions, and empathise with others. It may also support their numeracy skills as they count the beats in a song or incorporate numbers into a play.
Physical development
Finally, theatre activities help children gain mastery over their movements. In particular spatial awareness and motor skills. They will learn to move around within a defined area, like a stage, and coordinate their movements with those of others. For example, during a dance routine.
As you can see there are many advantages to children taking part in theatre, including a chance to have some much-needed fun away from the school environment.