Drama instruction is always fun for the preschool crew! Here are some ideas to incorporate drama into your preschool classroom to add creative expression and excitement in your curriculum.

First, you need to know the types of dramatic arts that can be implemented with your class. Here is a basic guide:

Story Dramas- This is where whole stories or parts of stories are acted out.

Role Play- This is where you share information about jobs people have, situations we may encounter, famous people or events by acting them out.

Games-These are simple activities based on some form of creative dramatics.A fun game is "Mirrors", where teams attempt to mirror the others in movement.

Pantomime Walks- This is when your students are acting out situations in their your own self-space, without touching other students.

Chain Pantomimes-This is when one person begins and the next move is passed on to next person.An example of this might be a pretend game of hot potato.

Coached Pantomime-This is when the teacher reads a story, scenario or situation aloud and the students act it out.

After you have determined which style of drama you wish to implement with your preschoolers you can come up with creative ideas to execute them. If you are studying a certain period in history, such as colonial times, students can act out a day in the life of the pilgrims. For science theme tie-ins you can have students act out the growth of a plant, or the way the earth rotates. Incorporate language arts and reading by encouraging your class to act out alternate endings to the story of the day. Perhaps the students can act out the character in a favorite story placed in a different situation.

Finally, incorporate fun and educational hands on activities to your dramatic program, such as a puppet theater or an assortment of role playing costumes. Both Melissa and Doug and Guidecraft offer sturdy and colorful puppet theaters. Easy costume ideas for role play can include simple costumes, such as a fireman or doctor. Just be sure to sanitize any clothing and hats that children share to prevent germs and lice from spreading.

However you choose to incorporate drama into your preschool classroom you are sure to enjoy it alongside your students! Here are some fantastic resources for your dramatic program: