"Stepping into Character: How Drama Teaches Children Empathy and Understanding"

Have you ever heard the phrase "walk a mile in someone's shoes"? Well, Drama can take that saying to the next level by allowing children to step into the shoes of different characters and experience life from their perspective. By playing different characters, children can learn empathy and understanding for those who may be different from themselves. It's not just about putting on a show, it's about building emotional intelligence and compassion for others. And the best part? It's all done in a fun and engaging way that even the most reluctant child can enjoy. So, let's dive into how Drama can teach children empathy and understanding through the magic of character play.

Number 1: Seeing things from Different Perspectives

Children learn to step into the shoes of other characters and pretend to be someone else for a while. It's like playing dress-up, but with more emotion. They develop a sense of understanding for different viewpoints and opinions, so when little Timmy is upset because his toy car is missing, your child can empathise and say, "Wow, that must be frustrating. I lost my favourite toy once too." Drama also helps children learn to consider different perspectives and think critically about issues, so when your child's little sister says she hates broccoli, your child can say, "I don't really like broccoli either, but maybe we can try it again and see if we like it better?" I'm not a fan of broccoli myself so I can empathise with them.

Number 2: Becoming aware of Emotions and Reading them in others.

Children learn to recognise and express their emotions through different characters. If they're playing a character who is angry, they can channel their anger into the performance, rather than throwing a tantrum. They develop a sense of empathy and compassion for other characters' emotions and feelings. If their character's best friend is sad, they can comfort them and say, "It's okay to cry. I can help you."

Children also get to learn to respond to different emotions in appropriate and respectful ways. If their character is feeling jealous, they can't just steal their friend's toy car. They have to find a different way to deal with their jealousy, like talking it out or finding a new toy to play with.

Number 3: Drama promotes Teamwork and Collaboration

Children learn to work together to create a story or performance. They're like a mini theatre troupe. They develop a sense of responsibility and accountability to their team members. If one person forgets their lines, the whole performance can be thrown off, so they have to work together to make sure everyone knows their cues. Furthermore, they learn to appreciate and respect their teammates' ideas and contributions. If someone suggests a different way to play a scene, they have to listen and work together to make it work.

In conclusion, Drama provides children with a unique opportunity to explore the world from a different perspective. By immersing themselves in the lives of different characters, children can learn empathy, understanding, and compassion for others. Children also develop emotional intelligence and the ability to connect with others on a deeper level. So the next time your child puts on a costume or recites lines from their favourite play, remember that they are not just entertaining themselves, but they are also building important life skills that will serve them well in the future. Let's encourage our children to continue exploring the world through the eyes of different characters as they grow into empathetic and understanding individuals.

If you want to know more about my work, visit my website at dramagarden.co.uk or email me on thedramagarden@gmail.com You can also download my free e-Book "Let's Play" - 5 Drama Games to Unleash your Child's Creative Potential. Just click the link in my bio.

Take care of yourselves, parents, and your little ones

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