Learning Performing Arts from a young age may have overwhelmingly positive effects on children. Listen to Maria Knox, Performing Arts Teacher at the International School at ParkCity Hanoi who says that studying Performing Arts could be the key to success for your child’s future.
- Improve English and Academic Outcomes
A clear benefit for students who choose Performing Arts is that they can improve their English very quickly. Reading from scripts increases their verbal and literacy skills. Working with the director, staff, and other cast members increases their listening skills. ‘Based in Vietnam, I have several students who do not speak English as their first language and have made huge progress, both in their written and spoken literacy but also in their confidence with the language.’ Ms Maria stated.
- Boost Confidence
The ability to feel confident and comfortable speaking out in a group is not easy for many children, especially those who may naturally be a little shy. Through the Performing Arts, children learn to communicate effectively and connect with others intellectually and emotionally. In reality, today’s workforce demands strong oral, written, and visual communication skills; these abilities enable students to excel in any situation where they will have to present their own ideas in the future.
- Enhance Creativity
In our Performing Arts classes, we explore new worlds, take on the identities of people from different periods and locations, and discover various viewpoints and approaches to thinking. Exploring these topics can help us develop the creative and imaginative abilities we need. Having these skills in a fast-changing world is crucial for thinking ‘outside the box’ and coming up with new and interesting ideas and solutions.
- Develop Self-Discipline and Teamwork
Teamwork and discipline are undoubtedly essential elements of Performing Art – without it, no theatre plays and performances can be performed. To prepare for a school production, each student needs roughly 100 hours of practice. ‘Singin’ in the Rain’ – ISPH’s school production this year required about 150 students to play different roles, from the lead cast, the supporting cast, and the dancers to the technical support team and stage managers. Everyone had to work together in order to achieve a common goal.’
- Build Friendships
Participating in a school play or taking a Performing Art class can help students forge powerful ties with other students who they may not normally engage with. When students work within a group of like-minded people to create a cohesive piece of work, bonding is inevitable. This gives them a chance to develop social skills, meet new friends, and become more confident communicating in groups.
- Develop Empathy
At a young age, it can be difficult for children to fully understand what it means to be empathetic. Participating in theatre teaches children how to connect with others at a young age and how to consider viewpoints that aren’t their own, positively impacting their emotional development. Playing roles and practising how to respond to different situations allows students to practically experience new scenarios. This supports the development of emotion and empathy and naturally supports students’ well-being and emotional development.
- Cope With Constructive Criticism
At a very young age, some children find it hard to understand that no one is perfect. A child’s confidence can be greatly affected by being ignored or told they are incorrect, yet in the performing arts, receiving constructive criticism happens frequently. ‘At ISPH we provide a secure environment where children can learn how to give and accept criticism. This builds their resilience, which they will benefit from through all stages of their lives. Whether they miss a note or forget their steps in a dance routine, they learn that it’s okay to make mistakes and learn from them.’ Maria said.
- Impress Universities
Participating in production activities is also a great benefit to a student’s university or job applications. Acting in plays, playing in bands, and participating in dance teams requires collaboration, coordination, and a commitment to a larger goal. These transferable skills are listed on many top university prospectus’ as skills that are admirable for applications. In such a fast-paced, ever-changing world, creative thinkers, team players, and leaders are required more and more in the workforce that our children will find themselves in.
Read more about our Performing Arts subject here: http://isph.edu.vn/learning/performing-arts/
