Finding the right balance of extracurricular activities for kids, tweens and teenagers can feel a bit like trying to juggle flaming torches while riding a unicycle. There are so many fantastic options out there— sports teams, music classes, drama clubs and acting classes—that it’s hard to know what the best activities for kids are. But here’s a hot tip for parents who want their child to excel across the board: weekend performing arts classes can be the secret ingredient that makes everything else better.
Let us explain.
1. Confidence Boost Galore
First and foremost, nothing builds confidence like standing up in front of an audience and belting out a show tune or delivering a dramatic monologue about your hamster running away. Performing arts classes teach young people how to own the stage—and that confidence doesn’t get left at the door when the curtain falls. Whether it’s motivating their hockey teammates, trying out for the football captaincy, or simply talking about their favourite book at book club, confidence built in the drama studio spills over into every other activity.
2. Teamwork Makes the Dream Work
Performing arts isn’t a solo venture. It’s all about collaboration. Children and teens learn to work as a team, support each other, and navigate the occasional diva moment. That teamwork mentality is invaluable on the sports field, in group projects, and even during those chaotic birthday party treasure hunts. Learning to communicate, compromise, and cheer each other on makes young people better teammates and friends.
3. Enhanced Listening and Focus Skills
When your child is learning a scene or choreographing a dance routine, they need to pay attention. Like, real attention—the kind that doesn’t involve sneaking a peek at their phone. Performing arts classes sharpen listening skills and build focus because one missed cue or forgotten line can throw off the whole performance (although things going wrong is absolutely nothing to be afriad of!). These are essential skills that come in handy when following a coach’s instructions, mastering a new chess strategy, or even remembering the steps in a baking class.
4. Creativity is Contagious
Performing arts classes are a creativity goldmine. Young people are encouraged to think outside the box, experiment with characters, and improvise when things don’t go to plan. This creativity is a transferable skill that benefits all extracurricular activities. Suddenly, art club projects become masterpieces, school presentations get a dramatic twist, and football tactics turn into creative masterpieces worthy of their own documentary.
5. Resilience and Handling Mistakes
Ah, the beauty of live performances—where things rarely go exactly as planned. Missed lines, wardrobe malfunctions, or accidentally knocking over a set piece are all part of the experience. But here’s the thing: kids learn to carry on, adapt, and recover without missing a beat – sometimes they even turn it into a comedy moment! This resilience is priceless when they face challenges in other activities. Falling off the balance beam? They’ll hop back up. Missing a goal in football? No biggie, they’ll score the next one.
6. The Joy of Self-Expression
Performing arts classes give kids the freedom to express themselves fully and unapologetically. They learn to channel their emotions, tell stories, and connect with audiences in meaningful ways. This ability to express themselves can help in other clubs, whether they’re leading a scout campfire song, giving a heartfelt speech at a debate, or simply finding their voice in a crowded room.
7. Practical Life Skills (With a Side of Fun)
Let’s not forget the sheer practicality of performing arts training. Learning to project their voice means they won’t have to shout during football matches to be heard over the crowd. Understanding body language helps them read social cues better. And mastering the art of a good curtain call? Well, that’s just plain impressive at family gatherings.
8. A Happy, Well-Rounded Human
At the end of the day, filmmaking, drama and acting classes help children and teenagers become more confident, creative, and resilient individuals, who thrive in all areas of their lives. Plus, it’s a whole lot of fun. So, whether they’re jazz-handing their way through life or simply standing a little taller in their other clubs, performing arts can give kids that extra sparkle.
And who doesn’t love a little sparkle?