Act It Out

This theater activity gives young children an opportunity to participate in drama in a structured manner.
by: Trish Kuffner, author of The Children's Busy Book

Act It Out


For most children, drama begins informally at a very young age. Playing with dolls is drama; playing store or hospital is drama; and playing cops and robbers is drama. Children also observe drama on TV, in movies, and onstage. This activity gives children an opportunity to participate in drama in a more structured and intentional way.

Directions

  1. Choose a story your child is familiar with, such as The Three Little Pigs, Little Red Riding Hood, or a favorite picture book. The Bible is also a great source of stories; try the story of Moses parting the Red Sea or the story of the birth of Jesus.
  2. To dramatize a story, your child can say the dialogue while performing the actions or simply perform the actions as you narrate the story.
  3. Costumes and props can be elaborate, simple, or nonexistent.
  4. Productions can be either impromptu or rehearsed and presented to friends and family members.