Culture for Kids: Ballet, Theatre & Opera
This week, we’re talking about an important part of children’s development; culture! Many parents take their children to the cinema to watch the latest Disney or Pixar film, but have you ever thought about watching a stage show, or even encouraging your child to take part in one?
From ballet and theatre to the opera, introducing your children to the arts from an early age is a fun family activity and can have many great benefits on their development too.
Benefits of Arts in the Early Years
Exposing your children to theatre, opera and ballet means that they will be more likely to appreciate and get involved in the arts throughout their life; you may end up with your own little Pavarotti or Darcy Bussell! But that’s not the only positive impact it can have on kids.
It has often been shown that early years arts and cultural activities such as going to a show or attending theatre-related events can help children to learn about important life skills such as creativity, imagination and personal expression. It can also impact positively on confidence, self-esteem and social development.
Taking part in theatre-related activities such as acting or ballet classes is also great way to increase your child’s physical and mental development. Not only will classes keep kids fit and active, but learning new skills will greatly improve their focus and discipline from an early age.
Kid-Friendly Culture in London
No matter how old your children are, the arts are now easily accessible to families, with many special shows and classes targeted specifically at kids. So, where can you find kid-friendly culture in London? Here are some of the best places for theatre, opera and ballet in the city.
Family Theatre Events
Located in Covent Garden, The Royal Opera House is one of the world’s leading opera companies and offers many family-friendly activities that parents and children can enjoy. Welcome Performances are perfect for families who’ve never been to the theatre before or don’t know much about it, with child-friendly shows and tickets from just £5.
The Opera House also holds regular weekend events for parents and children, known as Family Sundays. Suitable for kids over six, the events include creative and fun activities such as informal ballet and opera performances, design and crafts, dressing up areas and backstage tours.
Ballet Classes for Kids
If your son or daughter loves to dance, why not encourage their interests with a ballet class?
In London, the Bluebirds Ballet School offers dance classes for kids and toddlers that nurtured their creative development. Children ages 18 months and above can take part in lessons that provide a fun and unstructured introduction to the joys of dance along with Melody Bear™, a cuddly teddy bear.
Kids will also love Tippy Toes Ballet, which offers magical dance lessons for children ages two to eight. Classes are held all over London and use props and stories to increase children’s confidence and make dancing fun.
Does your child love the theatre or do they take part in ballet classes? Let us know your favourite arts-related activity in the comments below.