What Are Things To Teach Kids
📖 Table of Contents
- Why Storytelling Is a Powerful Teaching Tool
- The Magic of Role-Play in the Classroom
- Movement and Physical Expression as a Teaching Tool
- The Power of Group Collaboration in Drama
- How to Encourage Public Speaking Without Pressure
- How to Use Music and Sound in Drama Lessons
- The Benefits of Using Props and Costumes in Drama
- Make It Your Way
- Frequently Asked Questions
When I first started teaching drama to kids at a local community center, I had no idea how much I’d learn from them. One day, after a particularly chaotic game of charades, a four-year-old boy ran up to me and said, 'I want to be a dinosaur when I grow up!' That moment stuck with me, not just because of the sheer innocence of the statement. Because it reminded me of the power of imagination and play. 'What are things to teach kids' isn't just a question about curriculum—it's about igniting curiosity, building confidence, and creating a safe space for self-expression. Whether it's through storytelling, role-play, or movement, the right lessons can transform a child's day and, more importantly, their lifelong relationship with learning.
As I developed my own teaching methods, I realized that the core of drama education is not about memorizing lines or performing on stage—it's about teaching kids to think critically, collaborate, and communicate. I remember one session where we worked on a play about friendship, and a group of kids came up with their own ending that wasn't in the script. It was messy, it was loud, and it was beautiful. That experience taught me that the most valuable lessons aren't always the ones we plan. 'What are things to teach kids' isn't just about the activities we choose—it's about the lessons we allow kids to discover for themselves.[1]
I've spent years testing different approaches to teaching drama to kids, and what I've found is that the best lessons are the ones that are adaptable, hands-on, and rooted in real-life experiences. Whether we're creating a story based on the weather, exploring emotions through movement, or practicing public speaking in a low-pressure environment, the key is to make learning fun and meaningful. 'What are things to teach kids' isn't about a rigid list—it's about giving them the tools to explore, create, and connect with the world around them.[2]
Why You'll Love This Approach to Teaching Drama
- Encourages creativity and self-expression without pressure
- Builds communication and teamwork skills in a fun, non-competitive way
- Allows kids to explore emotions and develop empathy through role-play
- Can be adapted for different age groups and learning environments
Why Storytelling Is a Powerful Teaching Tool
As of August 2026, I once had a group of kindergarten students who were hesitant to participate in class activities. One day, we tried a storytelling session where each child took turns adding a sentence to a group story. Within minutes, the room was filled with laughter, creativity, and collaboration. The kids were not only engaged—they were taking ownership of the narrative.
This simple exercise taps into a child's natural love for stories and builds confidence in verbal communication. I’ve found that when kids are given the freedom to shape a story, they become more invested in the process and more willing to take risks.
Another benefit of storytelling is that it encourages listening skills. When children are part of a group story, they learn to pay attention to what others are saying, which is a crucial skill for both academic and social development.
Instead of giving a specific story, ask kids to create one based on a theme like 'a day at the beach' or 'an alien visiting Earth.' This allows for more creativity and engagement.
Part of our What should i be teaching my kids guide.
The Magic of Role-Play in the Classroom
One of my favorite activities is a 'career day' where kids get to act out different jobs, from a doctor to a firefighter to a chef. I remember one session where a little boy played a doctor and had his classmates 'get better' by pretending to take medicine. It was a simple activity, but it sparked a lot of discussion about kindness, responsibility, and helping others.
Role-play is a powerful way for kids to practice empathy and understand the roles and responsibilities of different people. It also helps them build confidence in taking on new roles and expressing themselves.
I've noticed that when kids are given the chance to step into someone else's shoes, they become more open-minded and curious about the world around them.
Role-play is the playground of imagination.
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Movement and Physical Expression as a Teaching Tool
I've found that incorporating movement into drama lessons can be especially helpful for kids who are shy or struggle with verbal communication. One session where we explored emotions through movement was eye-opening. We asked the kids to move like they felt when they were sad, excited, or angry, and the results were both surprising and insightful.
This activity not only helps kids process their emotions, but it also allows them to connect with their peers in a shared experience. I've seen kids who are usually quiet in class suddenly open up when they're expressing themselves through movement.
Movement also helps with physical development and coordination. It's a fun and engaging way to keep kids active while still learning important life skills.
Ask kids to move like they feel when they're happy, scared, or excited. This helps them connect with their emotions and express them in a safe, non-verbal way.
“When I first started teaching drama to kids at a local community center, I had no idea how much I’d learn from them.”— Teaching Drama to Kids editors
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The Power of Group Collaboration in Drama
One of the most valuable lessons I've taught is the importance of teamwork. I once had a group of kids work on a short play about a group of friends solving a mystery. The process involved a lot of back-and-forth, problem-solving, and compromise. At first, some kids were hesitant to take on roles, but by the end of the session, they were fully engaged and excited about their work.
Group collaboration teaches kids how to listen to others, respect different opinions, and work toward a common goal. It also helps them build social skills and confidence in speaking in front of others.
I've noticed that when kids work together, they often come up with more creative ideas and solutions than they would on their own. It's a powerful reminder of the value of teamwork.
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How to Encourage Public Speaking Without Pressure
One of the biggest challenges I've faced as a drama teacher is helping kids overcome their fear of public speaking. I remember one session where we played a game called 'Share Your Story,' where each child took turns telling a short story in front of the group. Some kids were hesitant at first, but after a few rounds, they started to open up and share more personal stories.
The key to success in this activity is creating a non-judgmental space where kids feel comfortable and supported. I've found that when kids know they're not being evaluated, they're more willing to speak up and share their thoughts.
This activity not only helps kids build confidence in public speaking, but it also encourages them to listen to others and respect different perspectives.
How to Use Music and Sound in Drama Lessons
I've found that using music and sound in drama lessons can be a powerful way to engage kids and enhance their learning. One session where we used recorded sounds of the rainforest to create a play about animals was especially successful. The kids were so immersed in the experience that they didn't even realize they were learning about different animals and their habitats.
Music and sound also help kids develop their listening skills and spatial awareness. They learn to pay attention to different sounds and how they can be used to create different moods and atmospheres.
This activity is also a great way to introduce kids to different cultures and environments. It's a fun and engaging way to learn about the world around them.
Music can be the bridge between imagination and reality.
The Benefits of Using Props and Costumes in Drama
I've always believed that the use of props and costumes can make a dramatic difference in a child's learning experience. One session where we created a play about a pirate adventure was especially memorable. The kids were thrilled to wear the costumes and use the props, and the result was a highly engaged and focused group of students.
Props and costumes allow kids to step into different roles and explore new identities. This can be especially helpful for kids who are shy or hesitant to speak in front of others.
I've also noticed that the use of props and costumes helps kids develop their creativity and imagination. It's a fun and engaging way to make learning more interactive and memorable.
🎭 Younger Kids (Ages 3-6)
Use simple props and short stories to keep the attention of younger children and encourage participation.
🎭 Older Kids (Ages 7-12)
Introduce more complex themes and encourage kids to create their own stories and characters.
🎭 No-Prep Version
Use everyday items around the classroom or home as props and focus on verbal storytelling and movement.
🎭 Group Version
Encourage collaboration by dividing the class into small groups and having each group create their own short play or skit.
🎭 Extension Activity
After completing a drama lesson, have kids reflect on their experience and write or draw about what they learned.
| The mistake | Why it happens | The fix |
|---|---|---|
| Not allowing enough time for each activity | When lessons are rushed, kids may not have enough time to engage fully and may become frustrated or disinterested. | Plan your lessons carefully and allow enough time for each activity to ensure that all kids have the opportunity to participate and learn. |
| Ignoring the needs of quieter or more reserved kids | Some kids may be hesitant to participate in certain activities, which can lead to feelings of exclusion or disengagement. | Create a supportive environment where all kids feel comfortable. Use activities that allow for individual and group participation to ensure that everyone is involved. |
| Overcomplicating the activities | If activities are too complex or require too many materials, they can become overwhelming for young children and may not be effective in teaching the intended skills. | Keep activities simple and focused on the main learning goals. Use everyday items as props and keep the instructions clear and easy to follow. |
| Not providing enough structure or guidance | Without clear structure, kids may become confused or lose focus, which can lead to a lack of engagement and learning. | Provide clear instructions and structure for each activity. Use visual aids and cues to help kids stay focused and on task. |
What Are Things To Teach Kids
Common Questions
How can I keep kids engaged during a drama lesson?
What if some kids are too shy to participate?
How can I incorporate drama into a traditional classroom setting?
What are some benefits of teaching drama to young children?
References
- Exploring Barriers to Time Spent on Social Studies and Science in K ... (files.eric.ed.gov)
- Child Development and Early Learning - NCBI - NIH (ncbi.nlm.nih.gov)
Cite this guide
Teaching Drama to Kids (2026). What Are Things To Teach Kids. https://dramaplayarea.com/what-are-things-to-teach-kids/
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