DRAMA classes yield numerous long-term benefits to a child through his growing years. Picking up life skills — like learning to think on one’s own feet, problem solving and putting forth creative ideas by acting on them — is one of them. Good oratorical skills, essential in working life, can also be developed from a young age through drama.

SAVASkool, which organises kiddie classes for children at the Fort Canning Park, combines the dynamics of theatre, class presentations, speech training and art exposure programs to help student develop their communication skills and self-expression.

“Our monthly learning themes provide a rich mix of experiences that provide the backdrop for kinaesthetic learning, improved pronunciation, vocabulary and a greater command of the English language,” they say.

Increases EQ. Many introverts, once afraid of speaking in front of a large audience, have successfully built their self-confidence and overcome their fears through acting. Drama also teaches them how to be comfortable in interacting with others, and how to express their thoughts and emotions with clarity.

At the same time, drama classes increase a child’s awareness of how different actions may result in various consequences. It can also help give a sense of identity to the child.

By putting themselves in the shoes of others through acting, they are taught valuable lessons on empathy and therefore learn about various social roles that their characters play.

Imparts values. The Theatre Practice, founded in 1986 by Mr. Kuo Pao Kun, stages plays based on local legends that impart moral lessons.

“Our approach to theatre-making reflects the intense struggle between tradition and modernity,” it says in the group’s website. “While it provides access to global influences through international collaborations, The Theatre Practice remains true to its assertion of local identity.”

Children also learn how to pick up on both verbal and non-verbal communication cues when they pay close attention to words and actions. Stories with underlying moral lessons are best explored through drama, as the little ones would be able to fully grasp the meanings behind them by putting words into action.

Teaches focus. Most children are restless and have short attention spans, thus drama classes prove to be one of the most engaging ways they can learn about the world around them.

Our goal is to have each child make new friends and to foster a love for life and learning though drama. They will learn to identify and further build an interest in the arts. Field trips offer exciting opportunities to connect children along with their families to the arts,” says SAVASkool.

Not only do drama classes open them up to exploring ideas through creative use of language, style and structure, they also acquire the the freedom to experience what self-definition is all about.