Child psychologists have found that putting on a show can be far more important to a child’s success in life than passing exams. According to the author of a US bestselling book on child psychology, being in situations that develop character helps to produce happier more fulfilled children than being taught to pass tests.
In his book, How Children Succeed, Paul Tough suggests that zest, curiosity and social intelligence enhance children’s chances in life far more effectively than being drilled to pass exams.
It is for this reason that Elaine Teague, who runs the Epsom Playhouse, has invited Dorking-based Dandelion Theatre Arts to offer drama and dance classes to children aged from 4-14 years old there from January 2013.
“We know children do not always get the opportunities they would like to have to be involved in theatre at school,” said Elaine. “Having watched the enjoyment that all children and their parents derived from the Chitty Chitty Bang Bang workshop Dandelion ran here during the summer, we were keen to have them back to run regular classes.”
From 2013 performing arts classes will run for 4-7 year olds and 7-11 year olds on Saturdays, and for 11-14 year olds on Thursday evenings. Because Dandelion Theatre Arts put on shows at the end of every term, there will be plenty of opportunities for all those involved to enhance skills they will use for life while making new friends and possibly discovering talents they never knew they had.
For more information please go to www.dandeliontheatrearts.co.uk or call Jennai Alberts on 01306 886243 / 07785 974870.
