My 12-year-old has just started a two week program at the Lorraine Kimsa Theatre for Young People. I was surprised when he had the idea, but I went along with it willingly. As a teacher (back in the day) and as a parent, I have never doubted the value of theatre for all kids. It’s wonderful to learn to stand up before others and present yourself with confidence and clarity. Theatre teaches that.

Yes, my son has a flair for the dramatic, but taking that onto the stage is a whole new thing for him.

Well, my son has been known to quit (or want to quit) things he has started, so I can’t deny I was a little anxious how this would go. In order to make an event out of it, I have decided to make the trek with him downtown every day on the GO Train. I spend the day working in town while he is at the camp. Well it’s been just lovely for both of us. travelling by train is very pleasant (we hop on at the Aurora stop), and we get an hour or so at the end of the day to do something together before the first train back.

I’m so delighted that he is really enjoying the program. He is interested in film (and constantly making his own movies with friends) so this is a chance for him to learn about what the people do who are in front of the camera. But most importantly, is the experience of standing up and speaking out.

The Lorraine Kimsa Theatre for Young People (or LKTYP as they tend to write it for short) has a very positive, affirming approach to children and young people and it really seems to be working for my son.

Something to be grateful for.