4 Reasons why Performing Arts is more than just a hobby

1 - Creativity - Improvisation - Expression

I’m not a parent but I do have two nieces whom I adore, and I’ve watched my sister on numerous occasions have to come up with creative responses to her daughters questions. Being able to think creatively is a skill we use everyday and the performing arts have a monumental focus on ‘thinking outside the box’. Children are bursting to the brim of ideas, imagination and new ways to play, the performing arts gives them an outlet to thoroughly explore this faucet.

2 - Teamwork - Collaboration - Empathy

Whether you like it or not, you can't always be the boss and sometimes you will have to go along with a ridiculous marketing plan, proposal or even a partner’s hair brained scheme. Working as team isn’t about whose right and whose wrong, it’s about compromise and understanding other people’s point of view. The arts also teaches you that everyone is important and everyone is needed to put on a show/production/concert etc. After all "there are no small parts, only small actors."

3 - Perseverance - Dedication - Hard Work

After your first day of drama classes & lessons you probably won’t be able to nail that UK accent, or after your first ballet class you won’t be executing triple pirouettes or in music you will most likely fall flat on a few notes. But if you don’t give up the world is your oyster. If you keep on trying and your child is committing to their lessons then they will become unstoppable.

4 - Confidence - Resilience

This is the big one for me. Growing up I was a very confident child, I was a very happy child because of this. And unlike the majority of my friends I was not subjected to bullying. To be able to perform on stage and express yourself takes confidence. To be praised for your achievements, even if it’s simply learning your lines, standing on stage with a smile can raise your child’s self esteem astronomically.

When your child gains confidence they also gain self respect and will be less likely to become victims to schoolyard bullies.

For more strategies to develop your child's confidence through performing arts - please contact the expert contributor for this article.