Drama and in particular Improv Comedy Training is an essential tool in moulding children into confident, creative adults who are fully self-expressed and fulfilled. As author, Sir Ken Robinson, said in his 2006, TED Talk “Creativity is as important now in education as literacy and we should treat it with the same status.” Improv Comedy training offers children a variety of benefits. Here are just three of the benefits your child will experience.
- Boosts self-esteem and confidence
Learning how to improvise means children are learning how to create something special out of nothing. Whilst players are in the moment, performing, children are reliant on locating their creative genius to come up with material on the spot. There are no fancy scripts to rely on and because of this, children are taught to work from top of intelligence that is, the first idea that comes to mind. In this way children are taught to trust their ideas and “just roll with it”. Because improv comedy is such a great team sport and the focus is on “Yes And-ing” in order to move the scene along. We understand that all ideas are backed up by the support the entire team and because children know they have the complete backing of those around them, they are way more likely to offer suggestions. This feeling of being listened to and deeply supported by those around us, leads to a boost in confidence as children realize they can fully self-express without worrying about the judgement of others.
2. Develops necessary social skills
Improv comedy is a team sport. Unlike other forms of comedy creation like stand-up for example which relies solely on your own ability to get up in front of others and perform, improv is all about making your fellow players look good. As Amy Poehler says: “Improv is like the military we leave no man behind.” There is an understanding that all children are in this together and in order to move the scene along they all need to say “Yes” to the scene. In this way children are taught to actively listen. They become acutely aware of their fellow players and the suggestions they are offering. Because of this intense focus of those around them, they become powerful communicators, effective collaborators and this is what leads to maintaining lasting meaningful relationships.
3. Develops spontaneity and problem-solving skills
In improv comedy we see failure as an opportunity for comedy to happen and because of this we are able to be spontaneous and respond in the moment without the fear of failure. With the knowledge that there is no judgement from others, and with this lack of fear, children are able to offer creative solutions to problems. No matter how unconventional or silly the idea, they are able to explore multiple ways of reaching a desired goal. Children are taught to explode their ideas and heighten simple scenarios. This “no holds barred” approach to creating comedy allows them to solve problems in a multitude of fun creative ways
Improv comedy offers your child the opportunity to gain essential life skills, in a fun, experiential way. Through laughter and play children are able to expose their true creative genius, shine their light and live in their full power. If any of these concepts resonated with you feel free to contact Claudine claudine@jitteyrcitizens.co.za for more information on how JitterBugs: Improv Comedy Training for Little Ones, can leave your kids feeling touched, moved and inspired.
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