YOUNG ARTISTS

The work of the craft vs. the work of being a kid

The arts offer innumerable opportunities for kids and teens to develop discipline, self-expression, and many other valuable skills they will carry with them throughout their lives.

Artistic kids are sensitive and hardworking, and, unfortunately, sometimes extra hard on themselves. As a kid who grew up in the arts, I understand the various pressures that come into play as your child attempts to balance the work of their craft with the work of being a kid.

Childhood and adolescence are particularly tender times for high-achieving, empathic, and gifted kids.

The dramas of normal developmental tasks are heightened by the additional challenges often facing young artists.

Performing was her bliss – until it wasn’t

Seventeen-year old Collette (not her real name) had always loved to perform. Though she had been a quiet and cautious child, she seemed to truly come to life when she was on stage. She threw herself into the study and practice of her art, staying up late each night to finish her schoolwork after returning home from long rehearsals. Her passion for theater was evident – anyone who watched her could feel how much joy it brought.

Until suddenly it didn’t. Collette’s confidence shrank, and her perfectionism began to take over. She started questioning her every move. Maybe she’d never be good enough. Maybe she was kidding herself.

And then her own body began to betray her. Collette became gripped with the worst kind of performance anxiety. Even when she heard an encouraging word or managed to remind herself of her strengths before standing up in front of people, she faltered. Her hands shook, her stomach twisted, her breath caught in her throat.

Collette turned to her teachers and her mentors for guidance. But the feedback she got only made her more confused. Often it was contradictory; most times, it only added to the pressure.

Collette’s parents were worried about their daughter. They saw how much potential she had, and they couldn’t understand what had happened to their bright and driven girl. They decided to find out if talking to someone who understood what she was going through could help her find her footing again.

In therapy, Collette found a space where she could simply “be,” away from the stresses of her life. She began to develop and trust her own voice, learning to let helpful feedback in, and keep the unhelpful out.

Collette gained knowledge and tools to understand and master her body, giving her even greater freedom in her art. And she finally began to sense what it was like to hold onto her sense of worth, even in the face of criticism and rejection.

Protecting your child as you support their talent

The challenges facing young artists are many, but the opportunities for growth and fulfillment are, too.

As a parent, you want to make sure that your child has what she needs to stay happy, healthy and successful.

I want to help your budding artist keep her balance while she reaches for the stars.

Let’s join forces! Reach out now by calling me at (323) 510-1221 to learn how to get started.