Teaching children respect through drama. This is how we do it ...

One of the greatest problems we face in our world today is respect for other people. One of the main aspects of learning to respect others is teaching children how to listen and value what the other person has to say.

Drama plays a crucial role in teaching children how to respect each other. Watching and appreciating the contributions of others is part of this process. With the Helen O'Grady Drama Academy's classes children from an early age learn to build a relationship of trust with the other children in the class and therefore feel affirmed when they come to make their presentation rather than be ridiculed. Teachers guide children in this process of mutual respect and understanding so the learning environment becomes rich and creative.

Part of this process of respect is allowing children opportunities to make mistakes in this conducive learning environment. To make mistakes in a framework of trust means that children learn to take risks and realise that life and work is not always clear cut.

Through respect for each other and understanding our differences, we will make a better world. Intolerance comes from poor education and a lack of interaction on this scale in schools. This is why drama programmes are so good for High Schools.

Spine Road High School is an example of a school which has seen the enormous benefits of drama for their students, not only in the communication skills and creative aspects but in helping young people to build their self-esteem and confidence. Here you can see our fabulous teacher, Michelle, in action with them.







For more information about our programmes for schools, contact 021 6747478 or head to our website www.dramaafrica.com



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