And they gain this trust not only through the act of the performance itself, but through the process of moving from their ideas, to actions, to performance, which teaches them the value of patience and perseverance. When the curtain falls, they are so elated because - they did it! Their sense of achievement is overwhelming because they feel the rewards of their hard work, of having invested themselves in the creation of something they have gradually seen come to life. The piece of Drama becomes a platform for them and the performance a showcase, displaying to family, friends and the world how they have grown and just how much they believe in themselves. 

One of the most prominent ways in which Drama can impact upon a child's life, although perhaps not always so visible, is how it can shape a child's sense of self worth. A wealth of confidence can be gained through Drama, yet behind it lies self acceptance, which has a quiet but profound effect on self esteem. Drama allows children to explore and express a range of emotions and by doing so it can really open up children and young people to new experiences, helping them to gain a better understanding of themselves, the world and their place in it. In exploring Drama, they are essentially exploring themselves - their qualities and individuality, their potential and possibilities. They are learning life skills and building up the courage and self-belief to pursue the opportunities that will meet them on their life journeys.

Using Drama can be a very meaningful way of exploring any issues surrounding well-being. Some of the children I have known to have benefitted the most from their involvement in Drama, have been the ones who have learnt to overcome some challenge within themselves. The children who may struggle with their self esteem, with shyness, behavior, learning difficulties or disabilities, with illness, language barriers or a troubled home life have much to gain from Drama. It is those children who use it as an outlet, a way of releasing mental, physical or emotional tension. Drama can reduce stress and aid relaxation and through exploring creative expression it can help children to understand and manage their feelings and emotions. In being able to freely express and immerse themselves in Drama, children can overcome fears or anxieties, discover what makes them unique and learn to trust in their abilities, ideas and most importantly, in themselves. 

"Janine takes time to find their individual strengths, giving them such great self confidence and self belief even in the shyest of children! Her passion for Drama makes my girls thoroughly enjoy the teaching and all the Drama productions. She's a very talented and special lady!!!"

Kate Cheema, parent

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Experiencing Performance

Exploring & Expressing



Drama involves mind, body and soul, bringing about positive changes in every area of development - social, emotional and physical. It helps a child to develop their imagination by stimulating and nurturing creative and independent thinking. Even fun games using improvisation can foster quick thinking solutions which leads to greater adaptability in life. It can increase social awareness, empathy, compassion and an understanding and tolerance of others feelings and viewpoints. It can improve oral communication, articulation and voice projection as they practice verbal and non verbal expression of ideas. It encourages an understanding of rules through working with others, learning mutual respect, trust, problem solving and negotiating. It promotes a positive self-concept and strengthens concentration and memory, listening and observation skills. All of these skills and more, are promoted through Drama.

Children, like adults, have their own unique personality. And just like us, their temperaments, interests and abilities vary. Some are quiet dreamers, thoughtful and reserved, others are loud, active and sporty. Some are interested in science, others in art, some are adept at Maths, others are naturally gifted Musicians. They are all unique. But any and every child can benefit from what Drama has to offer. Drama should not be seen as an activity reserved for the outgoing, already confident child. It is not always to begin pursuing the arts professionally, nor is it simply another school lesson or just a fun past time, but a valuable way of shaping how a young person sees themselves, others and the world around them. And, for any who have the opportunity to explore it, it may be that achievements in Drama can be the key to success in other areas of learning. The skills and self esteem they acquire, they may take with them through education, career and life

A Child's Sense of Self-Worth

Any & Every Child Can Benefit