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Original poster

Drama classes - are they worth it?

12 replies

TuttleTree · 22/09/2023 13:50

(posted elsewhere but I think this is the right thread)
Parents!!! I am after some real experiences of drama classes for primary school aged children. My DD in Year 1 is very capable, very hard working, loves reading and is a self-starter when it comes to getting work done/homework/reading/sums etc but he is a quiet boy. He will speak when spoken to but is not naturally extroverted/confident with people. I am considering drama classes but wondering if they will really make a difference or if some children are just the quieter type and that wont change?

I was always quiet/shy when I was younger and I dont feel it held me back at all until perhaps university and entering the working world but since then I've sort of just learnt how to "switch it on" when I need to. Im just not sure if drama classes can/will actually change the inherent personality of a child who prefers to keep himself to himself??? Advice/experience most welcome!

OP posts:
HollyB85 · 22/09/2023 15:03

Drama classes are definitely worth it. My daughter took up drama classes because she wanted to be an actress, and whilst she didn't achieve that dream, her drama classes have helped her so much.

She's a really confident presenter, she's great working in a team, she can think on her feet, it's just helped build her confidence in so many ways

Original poster
TuttleTree · 22/09/2023 15:12

HollyB85 · 22/09/2023 15:03

Drama classes are definitely worth it. My daughter took up drama classes because she wanted to be an actress, and whilst she didn't achieve that dream, her drama classes have helped her so much.

She's a really confident presenter, she's great working in a team, she can think on her feet, it's just helped build her confidence in so many ways

Thank you! What age did she start?

OP posts:
SingingSands · 22/09/2023 15:32

There's nothing wrong with him being a quiet boy in Year 1.

Drama classes are great for children if they want to do them. Don't sign him up because you think he needs to be louder, more outgoing, more confident.

Original poster
TuttleTree · 22/09/2023 15:37

SingingSands · 22/09/2023 15:32

There's nothing wrong with him being a quiet boy in Year 1.

Drama classes are great for children if they want to do them. Don't sign him up because you think he needs to be louder, more outgoing, more confident.

Feels like this view is in the minority looking through the thread. I think there are times to do an extra curricular because a child enjoys it and other times because you'd like them to have extra help in some areas. There are times when you would choose different activities for both of these reasons.

OP posts:
MargaretThursday · 22/09/2023 16:56

Ds was not keen on speaking up unless it was about football.

He'd done drama for the last 8 years and very happily performs in front of a large crowd now. He does like to be scripted still though.

Timeforabiscuit · 22/09/2023 16:59

Absolutely worth it for my quiet, studious year 1 - really helped her confidence and public speaking.

CurlewKate · 22/09/2023 17:01

Didn't you get the answer you wanted on your last thread?🤔

Timeforabiscuit · 22/09/2023 17:02

It was actually her class teacher who suggested it would be a good idea, they had a free trial at the school and she didn't hate it, it was after school once a week which helped massively with childcare.

When she got older, it was pricier, but by that point we started to see her confidence blossom, so it was a no brainer for her to keep going.

CurlewKate · 22/09/2023 17:02

But signing up a 5 year d to a class he doesn't want to do is bonkers. HTH.

WhyDoesItAlways · 22/09/2023 17:12

I have a quiet year 2 boy and I signed him up for drama classes last term. Do I think it will change him from being a quiet person? Absolutely not, that's just him. But I signed him up in the hope it will give him the confidence to perform when required.

I wouldn't do it at any cost. He enjoys the classes, but if he didn't, I would absolutely remove him. Is there a taster session he could go to?

Original poster
TuttleTree · 22/09/2023 17:40

CurlewKate · 22/09/2023 17:01

Didn't you get the answer you wanted on your last thread?🤔

Yes I think all good now and lots of helpful responses. I have never used Mumsnet before! Don't know how to end a thread?? Can I end???

OP posts:
CloudPop · 22/09/2023 17:53

Give it a go. If he doesn't enjoy it then stop.

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