Empathy, Kids and Drama

My daughter finds it hysterical when people fall over. If they are really hurt she usually stops laughing and just stares, or makes a loud inapproprate comment like "were their shoes on the wrong feet?". She's two. That's fine. But it is about this age that children should be starting to show the first signs of developing a sense of empathy, as they establish their theory of mind: the realisation that, just as she has her own thoughts, feelings and goals, so do others, and they may be different to hers.

As parents, of course empathy is something that we all know is absolutely vital for our children, so that they can go on to be good members of society and build strong relationships. But is it something that just develops on its own? To a certain extent, when provided with a safe and nurturing environment with empathetic role-models, yes, but empathy is still a skill; it can be taught, learnt, practiced and improved. One of the key ways for your child to practice empathy is though the use of Drama.

It really makes sense if you think about it, acting completely hinges upon the ability to put yourself in someone else's shoes; to really try to understand their thoughts, feelings, circumstances and point of view. The ability to put aside your own motivations and see someone else's.

I am not saying that you need to enrol your child in one of my school holiday programmes if you want them to develop empathy (although I would be happy for you to do that!), but just that drama is such an important educational tool for your child.

I am constantly saying that I am passionate about drama, and they are not just words. Drama has SO much to offer our young people, and in my opinion, the younger the better. Empathy is just one of a long list of benefits to be gained from children taking part in drama activities; self-esteem, confidence in one self as well as in front of an audience, public speaking, concentration, imagination, communication skills and interpersonal skills, just to name a few!

Play pretend with your children! Question them about their thoughts and feelings when they are taking on a role. Ask 'why'? Use storytelling and books to delve deeper into characters' feelings and emotions. Get your chidren thinking by calling out 'FREEZE!' mid pretend game and then using a fake microphone to interview the different characters about what they are thinking and feeling right now.

Use drama techniques as a tool to prepare them for life, and they'll be having so much fun that they won't even realise you're doing it!

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