Conquering Stage Fright : My ASD Child
- HEALIS AUTISM CENTRE
- Jul 22
- 2 min read
Standing on stage is not an easy feat, especially in front of large crowds. Not all children are predisposed to the performing lifestyle, and for them, here are some tips to help overcome their stage fright!
Create a Safe Environment
 One reason children have stage fright is due to unfamiliarity. It takes time for them to adapt to new places and be relaxed. We can help by introducing the stage and seats beforehand, and preempt the scale of audience members. By repeating this a few times, the child becomes familiar with the stage setting and feels more comfortable standing on that stage. Another method would be gradual exposure (Winn, 2017). Start the child off with small, low-pressure settings before slowly increasing the complexity and scale of performance.
Practice and Rehearsal
Another reason children do not like performing is their lack of self-confidence. They are afraid of making mistakes and embarrassing themselves in front of others. Provide plenty of opportunities for rehearsal in a supportive and understanding environment (Little, 2024). Let the child practise the performance multiple times to build confidence. It would also be good to have a full dress rehearsal right before the actual performance to replicate the whole process! These steps would help to reduce a child’s anxiety by providing a clear sequence of events and expectations (PLLC, 2021).
Positive Reinforcement
Moving on to the most important tip, encourage and praise your child throughout the rehearsal and performance process! No matter how small the progress, praising them consistently for their efforts will build their confidence and self-esteem (Winn, 2017). It is good to have a positive outlook even when things do not go smoothly. For example, telling your children that it is alright to make mistakes, and commend their courage for trying instead of berating them (MacAlister, 2024). Teach them self-affirmations, so they learn how to uplift and empower themselves (Little, 2024). Remember, focus on their strengths and celebrate all achievements!
Prepare support materialsÂ
In addition, we can use visual supports and social stories. Social stories are useful as they narrate what to expect. Next, create cue cards, schedules or scripts which helps the child remember their lines or actions during the performance. Support materials like these help to provide structure and predictability (Esposito, 2024), making them less nervous.
Ultimately, the goal is to build positive experiences and feelings with performing on stage, reducing their overall fear. We hope these tips have provided some helpful insight!
Written by: MicoleÂ
References
Freepik. (n.d.). Young kids performing play on theatre stage to celebrate World Theatre Day [AI-generated image]. Freepik. https://www.freepik.com/free-ai-image/young-kids-performing-play-theatre-stage-celebrate-world-theatre-day_133525480.htm
Esposito, J. (2024). Conquering Stage Fright. Conquering Stage Fright | Anxiety and Depression Association of America, ADAA. https://adaa.org/understanding-anxiety/social-anxiety-disorder/treatment/conquering-stage-fright
Little, M. A. (2024, July 1). Helping children with performance anxiety. Psychology Today. https://www.psychologytoday.com/sg/blog/childhood-narcissism/202406/helping-children-with-performance-anxiety
MacAlister, L. (2024, April 29). Autism and catastrophising. undefined. https://www.autism.org.uk/advice-and-guidance/professional-practice/autism-catastrophising
PLLC, S. C. (2021, September 17). 10 ways to help kids with performance anxiety. Greensboro | Winston Salem Counseling. https://santoscounseling.com/blog/helping-kids-with-performance-anxiety#:~:text=To%20help%20your%20child%20with,with%20engaging%20in%20constructive%20changes.
Winn, K. (2017, April 4). Stage fright: How to help kids with performance anxiety - today’s parent - today’s parent. Today’s Parent. https://www.todaysparent.com/kids/kids-health/performance-anxiety-2/Â