How are theater performances and children's dramatic play similar?

Question

What will be an ideal response?

Answer 1

The elements of drama and dramatic play share much in common. First, to be successful as an actor, a person must be able to imitate others. This requires proficiency in oral language and in controlling the body. The foundation for imitative behavior is established in early childhood as infants learn how to make themselves understood by parents, caregivers, and older children using gesture, words, and actions. Secondly, actors also need to know how to use props, costumes, and settings as ways to enhance the meaning of their performance. Through play, the ten-month-old play peek-a-boo with his father's hat, the toddler putting shoe boxes on her feet and pretending to skate, and the preschooler "cooking" a meal in the playhouse are all learning how to use parts of their environment for dramatic effect. Thirdly, theater productions are formed around an aesthetically organized and creative presentation of a message or story. The development of narrative skills is a key feature of children's dramatic play. The toddler pantomiming falling in a puddle, the preschooler playing with an imaginary friend, kindergartners acting out the story of Goldilocks and the Three Bears, and second graders writing and producing their own playlet about life in the rain forest are all learning the principles of story creation and expression.