Posted on: Thursday, November 10, 2005
Let child get used to live theater
By DOREEN NAGLE
Gannett News Service
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TIPS FOR PARENTS Take an aisle seat in case you need to make a quick exit. But you can extend your stay if you are prepared with a blanket, stuffed animal, bottle or juice container. Arrive early so you can sit as close to the stage as possible (or spring for the better seats up front). Little children can be easily distracted, so you want as little space as possible between you and the stage so they can focus — with your guidance if needed. Be prepared to share your seat. One way to hold on to your child — literally — is to have him or her sit on your lap during the performance. This also is a good way to teach the art of respectful whispering (versus indiscriminate screaming) because you can answer questions and teach intimately rather than disturb others in the audience. Teach theater etiquette. Don't let the child yell, cry or walk about while the play is under way. Applaud at the end. After the show, expand on the theme. If you attend a concert, borrow a CD from the library with some of the same songs so you can sing along in the car. Ask your children to make up their own songs about the same topic or to give you a concert at home. |
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If you want to open the door on a lifelong love of live theater and the arts for your children, start by taking them to kid-friendly cultural events.
With the holidays approaching, more opportunities than usual should exist for local entertainment aimed at children. How can you pick which shows are best for them and make their experiences rewarding?
Small children have a hard time sitting still as long as older children or adults. A show that lasts 45 minutes to an hour should have a short intermission. One that lasts a half-hour is perfect for a 2-year-old.
Is there a point to the play? Will your kids learn something? While theater just for fun is a great experience, it's even better if there are some lessons thrown in.
Young children love action but without the frenzy and chaos. Taking them to plays that star stiff characters who resemble "talking heads" and speak in flat monotones quickly will bore them (and you). Characters should be respectful and encourage imagination.
Young children also love music and it is excellent for their developing brains, so make sure that singing and dancing is part of the show.
Choose a play that tells a story in a logical sequence using simple story lines and uncomplicated dialogue. There should be only a few main characters (three are easy to follow). Plays written for children too often over-explain or add unnecessary elements, causing young children to lose interest.
