TEGGIES IMPROV

We run free improv classes for mothers and babies (~6 - 36 months) in spring and autumn. Where mothers can’t make it, we are happy to welcome fathers or grandparents to our classes! 

Aim of Teggies Improv: Strengthen the bond between mothers and their babies, as well as form friendships and a support network between mothers in the local and nearby areas.

What Is Improv?

• Improv is comedy (sometimes drama) theatre without a script.
• Characters and stories are made up on the spot between improvisers. 
• Collaborative art form, where people learn to think on their feet and let go of the fear of failure. 
• Embrace everything that comes as an opportunity for storytelling.
• Whose Line is it Anyway with babies!

“There are no mistakes, just opportunities.” (Tina Fey)

Benefits for You and Your Baby

Improv starts with warm up games like mirroring, miming, physicality, talking in gibberish and often silly play. These activities lead to creating characters and stories in a fun and accepting environment. Research literature on infant development notes how similar games and actions can be beneficial for their growth. Moreover, improv theatre helps increase confidence, creativity and communication skills for adults, according to science! 

• Mirroring behaviours helps regulate emotions for both mother and baby [11]
• Gestures and joint attention can contribute to later vocabulary growth [6] 
• Play aids with emotional, social and cognitive growth in young children [4]
• Improv helps adults reduce stress and enhance well being and creativity [12]
• Improv helps boost confidence and communication skills [14]

References: You’ve just read some key ideas from our research! Feel free to check the References section on our website for an updated list of papers and books. You will also find the numbers linked to the statements above. See you in class!

No drama experience necessary! Just walk straight in through that front door and into the hall!