ds teacher told me to get comedy classes - any experience

[sietta]

ds has been very slow to make friends and is very sensitive. All is ok within the classroom, but in the playground at lunch teacher says he is always on the periphery of groups and doesn't get invited to a single birthday party etc. As he already takes part in the school drama plays (very small non speaking parts), his teacher has recommended that we look for comedy improvisation classes at his age group. My first thought was I don't want him learning to become the class funny man and making jokes to try and fit in, but maybe she has a point as he might relax in an environment where he is laughing. Just a bit unsure.

Does anyone else have experience of this ?

Thanks !

[deaddei]

How old is he?
Seems a bit ott to me and a strange thing to suggest.
Does he ever have anyone for tea/go to any clubs?

[sietta]

He's 9. I'm by myself and have three ds's, so he occassionaly has a friend for tea. To be fair to the teacher I think she meant he was ok in structured activites but not confident when it was unstructured and that an improvisation type of club/class would help. Seemed strange to me to, but the more I thought of it I saw her point, I just don't know anyone that's used comedy improvisation to develop a child's social skills and am hoping others might have used this

[brimfull]

weird suggestion

do they have comedy classes for kids??

[Nelvana]

Don't have direct experience with comedy, but my sister (excruciatingly shy) took drama classes that included improv when we were growing up. It definitely helped her and also sparked an interest in theatre as well.

[booknan]

My dd (14) has been doing comedy improv for last 2 yrs. She loves it & is the best fun she has all week! The comedy side is used just so they have fun. Its not teaching them how to be comedians. dd was not keen on singing/dancing etc. She has really developed hugely the ability to relate to others and has definitely made her more creative and able to cope with changes. They do a small show for parents each term and its hilarious. Easy relaxed fun.