Helping Your Child Prepare and Overcome Stage Fright: Exercises to Build Confidence in Public Speaking and Performing
Does your child love to sing and dance at home, and want to take that love to the next level?
When it comes to public speaking or performing live in front of an audience, stage fright is a common fear that many people experience, regardless of their age. It can be a paralyzing fear for some, and difficult to overcome. However, with preparation and practice, stage fright can be manageable. There are ways you can help your child prepare for public speaking or performing. There are also exercises that your child can do to help build confidence and reduce stage fright!
Stage fright doesn’t have to be a roadblock to success. With the right tools and preparation, your child can overcome stage fright and be successful at public speaking or performing.
Some tips on how you can help your child prepare for public speaking or performing:
- Encourage your child to choose a topic that they are passionate about. This will help them to be more engaged and enthusiastic when talking about the topic.
- Help them to practice their delivery by having them speak in front of family and friends. This will help them to get more comfortable with speaking in front of others.
- Make sure they are well-prepared by knowing their material inside and out. This will help to reduce any added anxiety or stress that they may be feeling.
Now, let’s look at some exercises that your child can do to help build confidence and reduce stage fright:
- Have them practice speaking in front of a mirror. This will help them to see themselves and become more comfortable with their own appearance.
- Get them to practice breathing exercises. This will help to calm them down and relax their body before they speak or perform.
- Encourage positive self-talk. This means having your child say positive things to themselves before they speak or perform. This will help to boost their confidence.
How often your child should practice these techniques will depend on how severe their stage fright is. If it is only a mild fear, then they can probably practice sporadically. However, if stage fright is more severe, then they will likely need to practice more regularly. It is important that they find what works best for them and stick to it. With time and practice, stage fright can be overcome!
Introducing your child to music and performing arts can be a great way to strengthen and grow their confidence. It will incorporate having fun which is very important. To find out about the programs we offer and how your child can get involved, give us a call at Performing Arts Music at (716) 239-3907.