The benefits of taking kids to a theatre performance – in our view – far outweigh the costs. Although taking children to the theatre is definitely a special treat – and one that we love to do a couple of times a year in our house – it’s also one of the best ways to give them a memorable, enriching experience that they won’t forget. Here are a few of the benefits of taking kids to a theatre performance.
Theatre can be a safe and positive space for kids
While kids probably won’t understand the cultural significance of seeing a West End show, they can however relate to the characters and the emotions they feel in a safe space. Theatre has long been lauded as being a brilliant way of developing the emotional and cognitive skills to deal with a complicated world, and kick-start conversations about important issues.
Bonding with your child
As an added benefit, seeing a show with your kids can be a bonding experience. You can discuss the show and what happened, and they can tell you all about their favorite moments from the show, too. It’s a great way to bond with your child and science shows that bonding is key to a happy childhood. Ultimately, seeing a show with your child can help you two become closer.
Exploring new themes and ideas
A trip to the theatre likely means your child may learn some things they never knew. This can be a great screen-free educational experience especially if you discuss the show, what happened, and what they enjoyed with them afterwards.
Learning about culture and community
Kids are curious and often want to try everything they see. With so much happening in the community and the world right now, they may ask you questions that you can’t answer. Theatre can be a powerful way of using storytelling to explore difficult subjects and provides you with the chance to talk to your child about life past, present and future.
A taste of the performing arts industry
Visiting a show means they’ll get a glimpse of what life is like when you are part of the performing arts industry – seeing talented actors, beautiful sets, amazing costumes and top-notch special effects that are likely to give them goose bumps well after the curtains close and “normal” takes over again. This is a great opportunity to talk about the different career paths involved that lead to theatre productions from costume and set design, sound technicians, theatre direction and everything else in between.
Help learn about money
While attending a show, you can talk about the cost of the ticket and putting on a performance, of all the costs that need to be covered and budgeting, and the value of a hard work ethic to be able to pay for the things you need or want in life.
Summing up
The benefits of taking kids to the theatre are endless. From experiencing a live performance to bonding with your child, there’s much to love about taking your kids to the theatre.
