For many parents, enrolling a child in a theater or arts program might feel like a fun but nonessential extracurricular – something that’s nice to do if there’s time after school, sports, and homework. But what if these creative experiences weren’t just “extra”? What if they were a core part of helping children thrive emotionally, mentally, and even socially?
At Intermountain Health, we’ve seen firsthand how engaging in the arts supports children’s whole-person health. And we’re not alone. Educators, pediatricians, and arts professionals are all echoing the same message: the arts aren’t just enriching – they’re transformative.
The science behind the stage
The benefits go deeper than many people realize. As Dr. Jeff Richker, a pediatrician at Intermountain Health - Lafayette Clinic in Lafayette, Colorado, explains, “Engaging in theatre and arts provides children with an important opportunity for physical development, cognitive growth, emotional expression, social skills, imagination and creativity.”
Participating in the arts – whether that’s acting in a play, painting in a class, or drumming in a music circle – stimulates brain development, strengthens executive functioning, and encourages divergent thinking (thinking in multiple directions, rather than looking for one “right” answer).
Even more compelling: research shows that children who regularly engage in the arts often perform better in school, show improved emotional regulation, and have lower levels of cortisol, the hormone associated with stress.
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A break from screens, a boost for mental health
Many kids spend upward of seven hours a day on screens. Arts programs offer something increasingly rare: the chance to unplug and reconnect with themselves, with others, and with their emotions.
Kathy Blegen-Huntley, Director of Institutional & Capital Giving at the Arvada Center, puts it this way: “In today's digital-dominated world, theater and the arts provide an essential counterbalance by engaging children's whole sensory experience and fostering in-person connection.”
She points out that the arts build crucial skills that technology can’t replicate empathy, collaboration, creative problem-solving, and adaptability. They also support emotional regulation and mental health in powerful ways.
“Research has found that individuals who engage with theatre – either by viewing it or participating in it, even as a hobby – for two or more hours per week exhibit significantly better mental health,” Kathy says. “Attending live theatre is a communal experience. For example, when people sit together in a theater, their hearts beat in unison.”
Yes, really. Shared live experiences like theatre can literally help us sync up with one another.
Confidence, connection, and communication
So, what does all this look like in real life?
Imagine a shy 9-year-old who’s recently experienced a personal loss. At first, she barely speaks. But through theatre camp, she finds her voice – both literally and emotionally. She starts to open up, connect with peers, and even leads a scene on stage.
That’s not a metaphor. It’s a real story from the Arvada Center, where programs like Theatre for Young Audiences and summer camps help kids come into their own every day.
“These transformations aren't just about artistic skills,” Kathy says. “They’re about profound personal growth that extends well beyond our studio walls.”
Parents notice the difference, too. One mom shared a teacher asked what had changed over the summer because her son came back to class more confident, more engaged, and ready to speak up. Another parent shared that their child, who had struggled with anxiety, now uses breathing techniques from drama class to self-regulate during stressful moments.
The takeaway? The arts equip kids with coping tools that last.
What if my child isn’t “into” the arts?
Not every child is excited about the idea of theatre or painting class at first, and that’s okay.
Kathy wants hesitant parents to know their programs meet each child where they are. “There’s absolutely no expectation of prior experience or natural talent – just a willingness to explore,” she says.
For kids who are shy, sensitive, or unfamiliar with the arts, programs like the Arvada Center’s Theatre for Young Audiences are a great place to start. These live performances are under an hour, often based on familiar stories, and available in sensory-friendly formats for children who may be sensitive to bright lights or loud sounds.
Plus, the arts aren’t limited to the stage. Kids can also explore visual arts, ceramics, music, dance, or design – whatever format best suits their personality and learning style.
How to get started
If you’re curious about introducing your child to the arts but aren’t sure where to begin, here are a few tips:
- Start small. Look for one-time performances, kid-friendly art workshops, or museum events designed for families.
- Follow their interests. If your child already loves music, storytelling, or crafts, build on what excites them.
- Talk through what to expect. New situations can be intimidating. Walking through the experience ahead of time can ease anxiety.
- Give it time. Your child may need a few tries to find the right fit, and that’s completely normal.
Above all, remember participation matters more than perfection. Whether your child ends up loving the spotlight or prefers sketching quietly in the corner, engaging in the arts helps them grow in confidence, creativity, and resilience.
The world is their stage
Arts education isn’t about turning kids into the next Mozart or Meryl Streep. It’s about giving them the tools to express themselves, connect with others, and build a stronger sense of self.
As Sarah Kolb from the Arvada Center puts it:
“One of the incredible things about live theatre is its ability to build empathy and connection – even when you think you're just having a good time. Being in a play, or even just watching one, makes you step into somebody else's shoes and think about their point of view.”
And really, isn’t that what we all want for our kids?
Learn more about upcoming camps and programs at the Arvada Center
If you’re ready to help your child discover what’s possible, the Arvada Center offers hundreds of summer camps for kids from pre-K to 18. Camps run June through August and cover everything from theatre and musicals to dance, eco-art, ceramics, fashion design, and more. Visit https://arvadacenter.org to get started.