Taking part in a performing arts class can help boost your child’s confidence in a safe and fun environment. Even the shyest child can grow into a self-assured young person with the ability to communicate well. We talked to Claire Power, Artistic Director with Trading Faces Galway, who has been a drama teacher for more than 20 years, to find out the helpful benefits of performing arts for your child.
Watch: https://youtu.be/StLt-xnyH-w
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7 Benefits of Performing Arts
#1. Builds Self Confidence
From improvisation to performing in front of peers, friends and family, performing arts takes your child out of their comfort zone in a safe and fun environment. Taking part in classes slowly builds confidence and self-belief in every student, as they’re nurtured and taught how to express their thoughts and ideas creatively.
Classes usually culminate in a show, where children perform on stage for a real audience. That confidence and ability to stand up in front of a crowd stays with them for life.
#2. Improves Listening And Communication Skills
From chatting with peers and coaches about their ideas, to projecting their voice on stage or directing fellow students from behind the camera, one of the biggest benefits of performing arts is stronger communication skills.
There’s also a real improvement in listening skills, as children hear the opinions of other students and coaches and learn to wait their turn to shine.
#3. Increases Empathy And Compassion
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Masterclass with Nicola Coughlan (Claire in Derry Girls) and past pupil of Trading Faces
Having to “get into character” teaches your child empathy and compassion for different people and situations. They may also find themselves working behind the scenes rather than always in the spotlight, which helps them see the world from a different perspective.
#4. Teamwork
The teamwork involved in performing arts is unlike that of any other activity. It’s not about winning or losing — it’s about working with your peers towards a common goal of creating a great performance, no matter how big or small your part is.
#5. Support For Third-Level Applications
Some third-level institutions in Ireland, including University of Galway, offer bonus CAO points for students who show artistic promise and achievement in areas such as:
- Drama & Theatre
- Film
- Music
These schemes are typically portfolio or audition-based, so it’s worth checking directly with individual colleges for current criteria. Trading Faces works with students to help them build the skills needed for this kind of assessment.
#6. A Fun Way To Express Yourself
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Performing arts is a genuinely fun way to express yourself, whether through dance, music or acting. Whatever mood your child is in, there’s a character to suit it. And whether their talents lie behind the scenes or in front of the camera, there’s an opportunity to express something unique.
#7. A Fun Workout!
It’s physical too — from learning dance steps to performing on stage to singing, children are constantly moving, which makes it a fun workout in the process.
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FAQs
What age can my child start performing arts classes?
Many drama and performing arts schools welcome children from junior primary age upwards, with classes grouped by age and stage of development. Check with your local provider for their specific age groups.
Will performing arts help a shy child?
Yes — performing arts classes are designed to gently build confidence over time, in a supportive group setting rather than putting a child on the spot straight away.
Do you need talent to take part?
No. Performing arts classes are about participation, growth and enjoyment, not natural talent. Every child develops at their own pace.
Is performing arts a good alternative to sport for kids who don’t enjoy team sports?
Absolutely. It offers many of the same benefits as sport — teamwork, discipline and physical activity — through a creative outlet instead.
Related Articles
- How Speech And Drama Classes Can Inspire Self Confidence
- Fun After-School Activities to Try With Your Kids
- How to Build Your Child’s Confidence at Home
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