Speech and Drama has been long recognized as a subject which benefits the learning and development of children. It empowers children and enables them to develop creative imagination, the ability to solve problems, self-confidence and interpersonal skills.

Develop Creative Imagination

In Hong Kong, children learn a lot of facts each day, so it is important for them to have the opportunity to develop the right side of the brains as well: to let their imagination flow and be creative! Through Speech and Drama, children are exposed to a variety of topics, scenarios and plays. With carefully facilitated dramatization, they can create pictures in their own minds and actively participate in the making of stories. They are free to travel to different places and eras in history, and possibilities are endless. This would give them the platform to think out of the ‘norm’ and have fun being creative!

Enhance Problem Solving Skills

As children discuss, brainstorm, exchange ideas, negotiate, make choices in the collaborative process, they are also learning to solve problems. They may encounter issues in constructing the play or during the actual performance of it. Sometimes, improvisation may be required, and children would have to think on their feet and make things work out as a team. Children may start off by working through a problem a step at a time, but soon, they would be able to tackle bigger and more difficult issues; and it would become easier for them to step into new situations and solve the problems in their everyday life.

Build Self-Confidence

In a safe and controlled environment, children would feel comfortable to try new things, to speak up, to express themselves and learn from each other. As they become accustomed to speaking in front of group of people, they would gradually be able to speak in front of a larger audience with more exposure. This confidence and flair would also come through in their day-to-day communication with other people.

Develop Social Skills 

Empathy has been referred to as the most important 21st century skill that our children need in this increasingly globalised world. Empathy is the ability to identify with others and to think and feel from others’ perspectives. Carefully facilitated role- play and drama activities will enhance children’s ability to develop empathy and tolerance as they explore different situations and characters in the rich variety of literature. This would also help children develop empathy in the real world too.

Another important skill that children will acquire is the ability to work in a team. Children not only have to know their own lines and entries/ exits, but they would also have to listen to each other and stay focussed throughout the whole play. They need to understand the overall picture of the story as well as to remember the blocking and their own steps as they interact actively with the teammates.

Central to all is the concept of ‘shared experience’. It is much like making a jigsaw puzzle. When the play is put together, the children will feel a sense of achievement as they have accomplished the task in a joint effort. Very often, long lasting friendships are established from these shared experiences.

The benefits of Speech and Drama are endless. It develops the essential life skills in children which will be useful to them no matter which profession they pursue when they grow up!