Families Education
THE IMPORTANCE OF DRAMA
by Alexa Brant
When choosing an after-school club or activity in which to enrol your child, it may be worth considering drama and the performing arts if you haven’t done so before. Some children seem to be natural performers, but, if you have a shy child, then the idea of sending them to drama lessons may seem absurd. However, joining a drama class doesn’t necessarily mean your child will be pushed onto a stage and expected to sing and dance and there are some significant benefits.
ACADEMIC PERFORMANCE
A range of research studies have found that students who participate in the Arts don’t just do better in school, they perform better in areas that contribute to success outside the classroom. Not only do children active in the Arts demonstrate higher academic performance and test results, they are also more likely to participate in community service and be elected to class office.
SELF-CONFIDENCE
Aspects of performing arts, especially improvisation, helps children to understand how to appraise situations, think outside the box and be more confident going into unfamiliar situations. Students learn to trust their ideas and abilities. Confidence gained from learning performing arts skills applies to school, career and life.
EMOTIONAL OUTLET Acting and drama games allow students to express a range of emotions and encourages them to understand and deal with similar feelings they may be experiencing. Aggression and tension can be released in a safe, controlled environment – often allowing for a period of reflection afterwards.
MEMORY
Rehearsing and performing lines and movements will improve your child’s memory. Memory requires exercise, just like a muscle! Images copyright Stagecoach.
IMAGINATION
Being creative and learning to make creative choices helps students to be better at thinking of new ideas, allowing them to view the world around them in new ways. Remember Einstein said, “Imagination is more important than knowledge.”
EMPATHY
Understanding characters, roles and the sub-text of plays and musicals allows students to relate better to different situations, backgrounds, and cultures they encounter in real life. It encourages them to show compassion and tolerance for others.
CO-OPERATION
An effective drama programme embraces both extroverted and introverted children. Combining the creative ideas and the abilities of all participants is required for the best outcomes. This requires all those taking part to engage in discussions, feedback, rehearsing, and performance.
CONCENTRATION
Playing, practicing, and performing develops the abilities and skills necessary for children to be able to focus their minds, bodies and voices.
COMMUNICATION SKILLS
Performing arts improves vocal projection, articulation, tone of speech and expression. Importantly, it also develops listening and observation skills. These skills will benefit a young person throughout their life.
FUN
Drama delivers elements of play, humour, and laughter to those taking part – it improves motivation and reduces stress.
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