Watching children perform can be one of the most inspiring experiences. There is a unique energy that comes from seeing young people step onto a stage, take a deep breath, and share their talents with the world. As someone who has spent much of my life working with families and communities, I have come to understand that these moments of performance offer far more than entertainment. They are opportunities for children to develop skills that will serve them for the rest of their lives.
Recently, I had the privilege of supporting the Children’s Spring Festival Gala in Toronto through the Botrich Family Wealth Heritage and Development Center. The event brought together young performers from local schools and community groups to celebrate creativity, culture, and the joy of expression. From dance and singing to other artistic presentations, every participant had a chance to shine. But beyond the applause and colorful performances, I saw children learning lessons that reach far beyond the stage.
Building Confidence Through Public Performance
The most obvious benefit of performance is the confidence it builds. Stepping onto a stage in front of an audience requires courage. For many children, this is their first experience presenting themselves in a public setting. They learn to manage nerves, project their voices, and maintain focus while being observed.
Confidence gained on stage translates to other areas of life. Children who have experienced performing are often more willing to speak up in class, participate in group discussions, and take on leadership roles. They learn that they are capable of more than they imagined, and that belief in themselves is the foundation for success in academics, careers, and personal development.
Learning Teamwork and Collaboration
Performance arts are rarely a solo endeavor. Even solo acts require support from directors, accompanists, or fellow performers. Group performances teach children the value of teamwork and collaboration. They learn how to coordinate with others, respect different perspectives, and contribute their unique strengths to achieve a common goal.
These lessons are especially important in today’s world. Teamwork is a skill that extends far beyond school or extracurricular activities. It is essential in workplaces, communities, and families. By participating in performance arts, children practice listening, adapting, and supporting one another — all skills that build strong, resilient relationships throughout life.
Developing Discipline and Focus
Preparation for a performance requires commitment. Learning lines, memorizing music, and rehearsing choreography all demand discipline and consistent effort. Children quickly discover that talent alone is not enough. Dedication, practice, and attention to detail are necessary to achieve their best results.
This discipline carries over into other areas, including academics and personal projects. When children understand the value of preparation and hard work, they are more likely to approach challenges methodically and persist through setbacks. The stage becomes a place where they not only perform but also cultivate a mindset of perseverance and excellence.
Enhancing Emotional Intelligence
Another profound benefit of performance arts is the development of emotional intelligence. Expressing a character, telling a story through song, or conveying emotion through dance requires self-awareness and empathy. Children learn to understand their own feelings and communicate them effectively. At the same time, they practice recognizing emotions in others, responding appropriately, and connecting with their audience on a human level.
Emotional intelligence is one of the most important skills children can develop. It impacts how they handle stress, navigate social situations, and make thoughtful decisions. By fostering these abilities through performance, we are preparing young people to lead with empathy and integrity in every aspect of life.
Creating a Sense of Belonging and Community
Performance also strengthens the sense of belonging. When children participate in a gala or recital, they see themselves as part of a larger community. They understand that their contributions matter and that their efforts are valued by teachers, peers, families, and audiences. This sense of inclusion and recognition nurtures self-esteem and reinforces the importance of supporting one another.
At the Children’s Spring Festival Gala, I witnessed how participation created connections across neighborhoods and schools. Children cheered for each other, families celebrated together, and the audience shared in the joy of performance. These moments build community while encouraging children to take pride in their own abilities.
Empowering Youth for the Future
At Botrich, we believe that giving children the stage is more than just providing a moment of performance. It is an investment in their future. By supporting programs like the Spring Festival Gala, we create opportunities for youth to grow in confidence, discipline, collaboration, and emotional intelligence. We help them understand that their voice matters, their creativity matters, and their efforts can have an impact.
Every performance is a building block for the future. The lessons learned under the spotlight stay with children as they navigate school, relationships, and careers. They become individuals who are prepared to face challenges, lead with empathy, and contribute meaningfully to their communities.
Watching young performers reminds me of why this work is so important. The arts are not just about skill or talent. They are about fostering character, building resilience, and empowering the next generation to step confidently into the world. By investing in children today, we are shaping a community and a society that values creativity, compassion, and growth.
Performance is more than a moment on stage. It is a pathway to confidence, skill, and lifelong opportunity. Giving children this stage is one of the most meaningful ways we can support youth development, and it is a vision that guides all of our work at Botrich.