Bringing Your Kids to the Theater

By Dr. Samantha Stinson, school engagement manager

You might think of attending the theater as a grown-up activity, but at Walton Arts Center theater really is for everyone. Our programming and facilities are designed to offer enjoyable theater-going experiences for your entire family.

We offer two series specifically focused on child-friendly programs – our Kellogg’s Kids Series, with productions geared towards younger ages, and our Family Fun Series, which offers shows that the whole family can enjoy.

Why Should You Bring Your Kids to the Theater?

Attending a production together at the theater is a family bonding activity. Sharing experiences as a family is beneficial for a child’s wellbeing and behavior . Seeing a performance together also provides opportunities for family discussion after the experience is over .

Believe it or not, attending the theater actually makes your kids smarter . University of Arkansas professor Jay Greene conducted a study on live theater experiences for primary and secondary students which concluded that attending live theater performances led to an increase in memory, critical thinking, vocabulary and empathy as compared to reading a play or watching a film. In addition to expanding children’s intelligence, the theater broadens their worldview . Theatrical performances give children the opportunity to understand the experiences of people and characters from different places and time periods – without leaving their hometown .

Best of all – it is unique and fun . Seeing live theater as an art form is an irreplaceable experience – as is witnessing its wonder through your child’s eyes .

Tips for a Successful Family Theater Experience

Taking your child into an experience that they aren’t used to can be stressful as a parent . Here are a few tips to help prepare your family for the best experience possible .

+ Choose a show geared towards your child’s age and needs .

All Walton Arts Center family programming comes with age recommendations . We also provide sensory-friendly programming, which expects and encourages things like seat wiggling, clapping and laughing .

+ Familiarize your children with the show they’re going to see .

Many of our kids and family shows are based on popular children’s books or characters .

+ See the theater through a child’s eyes and prepare them for what will happen . Dimming the lights, keeping their focus forward, sitting still and potentially loud sounds can be unfamiliar . Explain these in advance to familiarize your children with the unique experience of attending the theater .

The Learning Continues After the Show Ends

Keep the experience going even after the performance has ended . Ask your children questions about the show – who was their favorite character? What did they notice about the elements of the performance such as sets, music, lighting, props and costumes? Family discussions not only serve as a bonding experience, but also help to hone your child’s critical thinking skills .

Many children express interest in performing after attending the theater . Did your children catch the theater bug? Help them put on a play!

The theater-making process is an excellent learning experience, combining writing (the script), critical thinking (memorizing lines), imaginative thinking (directing the show), art (making sets, costumes and props) and social emotional learning (standing up and performing in front of others) . Use a wellloved book as your “script” or write an original story . Bonus if you make a recording of their performance to enjoy .

Walton Arts Center is a Place for Kids

At Walton Arts Center, it is very important to us that people of all ages are exposed to the arts . Consider bringing your children to one or more of our productions for kids . It’s never too early to foster an appreciation for live theater, and chances are if you love it, they will too .