How Improv Transforms Teaching, Learning, and Parenting with Will Dennis

🎭 Background of Will Dennis

12th-grade teacher at a private all-girls school.

Owner of an improv company, Unscripted Productions, focusing on applied improvisation.

🤔 Journey into Teaching and Improv

Initially uncertain about career path; influenced by strong educators and theater participation in high school.

Transitioned from professional acting to teaching after discovering love for teaching through improv classes.

🌱 Improv in Education

Improv creates a safe space for all students, promoting social-emotional learning and growth mindset.

Focuses on accepting mistakes as opportunities for growth, fostering a supportive classroom environment.

🔑 Key Philosophy: Yes, and...

The phrase "Yes, and..." emphasizes radical acceptance and contribution, vital for effective communication with teenagers.

Encourages parents to validate their child's feelings while contributing positively to discussions.

🎉 Classroom Activities

Start with trust-building exercises to ease students into improv.

Use games like Epic Rock, Paper, Scissors to foster teamwork and support.

Incorporate content review through fun improv activities that celebrate learning through mistakes.

💡 Advice for Parents

Engage teenagers using the Yes, and... mindset to enhance communication and understanding.

Explore creative thinking exercises together to validate their ideas and feelings.

🛠️ Improv's Impact on Students

Helps students manage pressure and anxiety by recognizing that imperfection is acceptable.

Allows students to take risks and build confidence in a supportive environment.

📬 Contact Information

Connect with Shellee Howard:

Website

YouTube

Instagram

Email: shellee@collegereadyplan.com

Connect with Will Dennis:

Website

Facebook

Email: will@unscriptedproductions.com