The European Youth Theatre: Seven reasons to consider drama classes for your kids

Enrolling your kids in a drama class can have a profound impact on their personal growth, social skills, and emotional intelligence. Youngsters get a unique opportunity to develop essential life skills, build their confidence and have a blast while doing it!

The European Youth Theatre (EYT) has been running English-language theatre activities in Brussels since 1999. It offers classes for kids aged 6 to 18, from September to June, in Ixelles, Uccle, Woluwe-Saint-Lambert and Woluwe-Saint-Pierre.

It has compiled a list of seven reasons why taking part in drama classes and theatre productions can be great for your child, even if they don’t aspire to be an actor.

1. Drama builds your child’s confidence
Drama classes help children build confidence and self-esteem by encouraging them to express themselves, take risks and overcome fears. Drama classrooms are environments where students are encouraged to express themselves freely. Taking part in a show teaches them to tackle the fear of public speaking while benefitting from the support of other youngsters.

2. It improves their communication skills
In class, children learn how to communicate effectively, both verbally and non-verbally. They are taught to articulate their thoughts, listen actively and respond appropriately. These skills are transferable to almost any career.

3. It helps them get creative
Drama classes foster creativity and imagination, encouraging children to think outside the box, explore new ideas and bring their imagination to life on the stage.

4. It teaches them to think on your feet
Theatre is all about problem solving: whether it be through interpreting an author’s intent in a play script, improvising a scene with a friend or because someone forgot their line in a scene and needs a helping hand. In drama class, kids learn to adapt to new situations and support each other.

5. It improves their cultural awareness
Through studying texts and working in diverse groups, drama classes can introduce children to different cultures, historical periods and literary works. This helps them broaden their understanding and appreciation of the world.

6. It strengthens their memory and concentration
Remembering lines, cues and choreography helps improve a child’s memory and concentration. Most drama classes also feature a number of concentration games and exercises, designed to help build children’s ability to focus for longer periods of time.

7. It’s fun!
Perhaps most importantly, drama classes are fun. They’re built around games designed to get kids to let out their silliness. They’re an amazing environment for making lots of friends and cutting loose.

An enriching and enjoyable journey

“When I first signed our child up for weekly classes, I wanted her to see that theatre requires effort, discipline and commitment,” says Mihaela Chirila, parent of a 13-year-old drama student.

“We very quickly realised that English Youth Theatre is far more than just theatre training,” she added. “Regardless of where life takes her, we are convinced that this experience is enriching her in every possible way. We believe the most important thing is that she gives her best and enjoys the journey.”