Drama for ADHD

We’ve all heard of ADHD, Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, but, when a child has ADHD, what are we dealing with? What are this child’s daily struggles? ADHD is a neurodevelopment disorder presented in a child’s hyperactivity, impulsivity, and inability to concentrate. Children with ADHD might find it difficult to sit still and calm, struggle to concentrate on tasks, show excessive physical movement and talking where sometimes they interrupt conversations, fidget constantly, and act without thinking.

Drama isn't going to make ADHD go away but it can help children understand themselves through fun, games and character analysis. Let me explain:

1. Using Drama to understand oneself

Answer this question. Can an actor play a character, and understand what this character is going through if the actor can't understand themselves first? The answer is No! No way! When actors play characters on stage, they are not just playing a role. They play their own version of the character. A unique interpretation that only that actor can provide.

If Judy Dench and myself both played the role of Lady Macbeth, one would end up with two different interpretations, even though it's the same character, who is speaking the same lines. The character would be played differently because the actors are different. Ok, I know what you’re thinking: “You wish you were as good as Dench!” I know she is a goddess and her interpretation would be flawless, but my point is that different people have different ideas, views, and opinions.

From an emotional point of view, children with ADHD might struggle to plan their thoughts, organise ahead, and have a clear headspace. This is where script work comes in handy. Through script work and character analysis, children learn about the character's thought processes, link their speech to their actions, question behaviour and decisions, and so much more. Eventually, characters and script analysis can help children understand themselves no matter how their condition affects them. It teaches them how to be themselves and, through my guidance, I help them use their condition as an extension of who they are rather than it being an obstacle that needs to be overcome. These script exercises can help them understand themselves through the characters they explore.

2. Self-Expression

I have been working in schools for the past 5 years and I admire how some children manage to pay attention, do their work, concentrate hard and not fidget for hours. Most children with ADHD struggle to do that! This is why teachers have to constantly remind them about their good sitting, open eyes, and ears. But let’s be honest, a child with ADHD can find it difficult to improve their focus if they're constantly being told: “Pay Attention! This is not playtime!”. They would probably fidget more because we've made them self-conscious about it. Their excess energy can be "toned down" by constant reminders but it will never be the same as that of children without ADHD. It is unfair on them to expect the same behaviour. This is why these children adore playtime. It’s their opportunity to let go of all the stress and stiffness that accumulated during lesson time.

When I'm teaching, I always give them a couple of physical exercises. Drama encourages them to use their bodies freely to play a giraffe being late for its trip to the Savanna, play a very old man who can't find his hat, only to realise it was on its head the whole time, or play a chicken learning how to dance the Salsa. There are no wrong answers. It is a safe space for them to express themselves through the use of their bodies and their voices without letting their condition hinder them. And if they do, we welcome them with open arms and work with them! Avoiding that “regimental” structure children face at school, Drama lessons can boost their moods, relieve stress, and calm their minds. This encourages them to feel more stable and confident.

3. Helping control impulsiveness

Drama allows children to express themselves freely, through their bodies and their voices. However, you’ll be surprised to know that Drama teaches discipline and I always incorporate discipline in every task they're given.

Just to give you an example, clowning games are fantastic exercises because they liberate them to act silly and funny. Silliness is the core of clowning, so children are aware that, for that particular exercise, they need to act ridiculously. However, if they are role-playing a detective scene where they're asked to locate the King's budgie, the latter would require a slightly more serious tone. It is more stable and grounded, and it teaches them the differences in behaviours and when they're needed. If you think about it, it teaches social cues.

The students I teach would know that, if they had to perform on stage, talking backstage is not allowed. I would explain that if their microphones were accidentally on, they can be heard discussing how they plan on convincing their teacher their homework was sat on by the dog and left at home “by mistake”. But, the minute they're on stage, big voices, big moves, and big faces are expected.

Another game they love is the colour game. Here, every colour represents a command, for example, red means stop, green means go, yellow means stand still, blue means lie on the floor, brown means walk backward, etc. Without them knowing, these cue games teach them how to behave and when to behave. Clever, right? Between you and I, I love it when I confuse them. Sometimes, I stick to blue and yellow for 10 minutes just to see them go up and down.

As I said earlier, discipline is deeply embedded in Drama. They have the opportunity to express themselves freely but behave sensibly when the time is right to do so.

At the end of the day, I am an actor and a drama teacher. I am not a doctor or a psychologist. Drama lessons can work wonders but please do consult your doctor if you think your child is showing any ADHD symptoms.

If you want me to help your child through my Drama lessons, drop me a message for a lovely chat. If you want to spoil me with a nice drink, I love white wine (or a cheeky spiced rum!) or if you want to meet me for a coffee, I’ll have a Latte with coconut milk and no sugars. No, I am not on a diet, I prefer saving those calories for lemon cake!

Keep doing a brilliant job parents. Although you might feel helpless and lonely, you’re not. There are so many people out there that are ready to help you.

Speak later and take care

E x

Ps. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=a-Y7xxnMiXg

Enjoy!