Drama Is for Everyone: Why Drama Classes are Inclusive for Shy Kids

There is a common misconception that drama is only for extroverts or that drama classes are only for those looking for a career as a performer. This isn’t the case at all. Some of the world’s most renowned actors can be quite shy when not in character, and many students join drama classes, like Drama Kids, for a whole host of reasons. From building confidence to exploring their creativity and self-expression, drama classes have a positive impact on children and young people whether they’re shy, outgoing or a complete ambivert.

If your child is shy that generally means they show a degree of nervousness or discomfort about other people, most often than not this will be people they don’t know well yet. This is not a character flaw or something that needs to be “fixed”, it’s a personality trait like any other. In fact, there is reason to suggest that shier children can be more observant, empathetic, sensitive and have stronger listening skills than their more outgoing peers. However, in a society that thrives on communication and interpersonal relationships, helping shy children to grow their confidence in speaking to others, and building their social and communication skills is a great way to support their development. This is where the likes of Drama Kids really come in handy!

Creating a Safe Space

When you think of drama classes, you might think of productions and performance opportunities, and while this can be a memorable part of the experience, confidence growth and development take place in the classroom. Group activities and drama games encourage children to speak to those they may not know yet and explore their teamworking and communication skills. This helps shy kids come out of their shell in a fun and low-pressure environment by following the instructions of their teacher.

At Drama Kids, classes are structured through a unique curriculum which aims to build children’s confidence, communication and creativity. The structure and flow of the class is kept consistent to allow children to feel comfortable and familiar with the format, whilst the content is fresh, fun and exciting each class. This gives the perfect balance of familiarity and challenge for shy children.

Then, when it comes time for performances, the teachers and drama class team will be able to work with the children in their class to decide how to divide up the piece, so each child is given a part that is appropriate for them and their comfort levels.

The Skills You Learn in Drama Class

Drama classes are key for improving children’s confidence, resilience, self-esteem and communication skills, both verbal and physical. They also can help shy kids enhance the skills that may come more naturally to them e.g. empathy as they explore character and role playing to consider another person’s point of view.

For some kids, they may discover a lifelong love of acting. For others, it gives them a safe and friendly space away from their mainstream school or home life to develop skills and try something new without the risk of failure or embarrassment. Drama classes are built on group participation (though no child is forced to take part if they’d rather just observe activities until they feel ready to join in) and children are encouraged to try again if they don’t get something right first time. They are taught their ideas and imagination is powerful and worthy of sharing which also builds self-esteem and a positive attitude to learning.

How to Approach Your Shy Child’s First Drama Class

If you’re ready to sign your child up for a drama class but you’re nervous about making sure they have the best first experience, here are a few ways you can approach your shy child’s first class:

• Speak to the team – whether it’s the Principal or teaching team, and whether it’s a phone call before the first class or if it’s on the day of, just let them know if you have any concerns or questions to reassure both your child and yourself. You could also ask for an outline of what happens in the class so you can share this with your child ahead of time.
• Talk to your child about what will happen in the class and why it will be fun – focus on the positives so they go in expecting to have fun even if they are feeling nervous.
• Book a trial – most drama classes will offer some kind of trial so your child can try out the classes before committing to a full term.
• Trust the process – children are good at picking up on their parents/carers’ emotions so if you’re nervous about how they’ll get on, they could become nervous too. Trust that they’ll be in good hands and have a nice time and be supportive of their experience when you pick them up at the end.

Drama classes are perfect for shier children. If you’re looking to build their confidence and encourage them to take a gentle step outside of their comfort zone, it’s worth seeing how drama classes can support their journey. If you’d like to see where your nearest Drama Kids studio is to you, visit dramakids.co.uk and search your postcode to book a two-week trial today.